Health Headlines - August 18

High Incidence of Suicidal Thinking Among College Students: Survey

More than half of 26,000 college students who completed a Web survey said they had thought about committing suicide at least once in their lives, University of Texas at Austin researchers say.

Fifteen percent of respondents said they had seriously considered suicide, and more than 5 percent said they had actually attempted to kill themselves at least once, psychologist David J. Drum and co-authors reported Sunday in a news release to coincide with their planned presentation at the annual meeting of the American Psychological Association in Boston.

The survey of students at 70 colleges and universities was administered in the spring of 2006. It also found:

• Six percent of undergraduates and 4 percent of graduate students said they had seriously considered suicide at least once in the prior year.
• The most common reasons for suicidal thinking were: wanting relief from emotional or physical pain, problems with romantic relationships, and problems with school or academics.
• Fourteen percent of undergraduates and 8 percent of graduate students who seriously contemplated suicide in the prior year actually made a suicide attempt.
• Nineteen percent of undergraduate attempters and 28 percent of graduate attempters needed medical attention.
• Half of those who attempted suicide tried overdosing on drugs.

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Food Container Chemical Not Harmful, U.S. Government Scientists Find

A chemical used in the making of baby bottles and other food containers is not dangerous, U.S. Food and Drug Administration researchers have decided.

The Associated Press reports that FDA scientists have confirmed the agency's original decision that the chemical bisphenol A, which hardens plastic, is not a threat to either infants or adults. The European Food Safety Authority made a similar finding in late July.

Trace amounts of bisphenol A have been found to leach into food containers, the FDA acknowledged, but the agency's scientists said they found no evidence that such small amounts were harmful, the AP reported.

Canada has already announced it would ban using the chemical in the manufacture of baby bottles, and 10 states in the U.S. are considering similar legislation, the wire service said.

The FDA findings are not the final word, according to the AP. A September meeting is scheduled, in which experts outside the FDA will debate bisphenol A's safety. The FDA itself has kept the issue open.

More research is needed because "there are always uncertainties associated with safety decisions," the AP quotes the FDA as saying.

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Toxins Found in Frozen Shellfish Imported from Ireland

Frozen mussels imported to the United States from Ireland may contain a toxin that can cause stomach cramps, nausea and vomiting, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Two cases of azaspiracid toxin poisoning occurred in July in the state of Washington, according to an FDA news release, and further examination of other containers of "Mussels in a Garlic Butter Sauce" from the same production lot imported by Bantry Bay Seafoods also contained the azaspiracid toxins.

The FDA recommends that consumers discard Bantry Bay Seafood frozen cooked products with "best before end" dates on the side of the box ranging from January 23, 2009, to November 15, 2009: Mussels in a Garlic Butter Sauce; Mussels in White Wine Sauce; and Mussels in Tomato and Garlic Sauce.

The Bantry Bay Seafood products are sold frozen in 1-pound cardboard packages in stores throughout the United States, the FDA says, and store operators have been asked to remove them.

Azaspiracid toxins have never been found in U.S. shellfish beds, the FDA says. They are odorless, tasteless, and can't be destroyed by freezing, cooking, or boiling. Symptoms occur within two hours after the seafood has been eaten and can last up to three days.

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Drinking Red Bull May Cause Heart Damage: Study

Drinking too much of the popular Red Bull energy drink may lead to heart damage, says an Australian study that included 30 university students, ages 20 to 24.

The researchers found that drinking just one 250 ml sugar-free can of the caffeinated drink boosted the "stickiness" of the blood and increased the risk of blood clots. After drinking Red Bull, the students had a cardiovascular profile similar to that of someone with heart disease, the Times (U.K.) reported.

The results were alarming and suggest that older adults with symptoms of heart disease shouldn't drink too much Red Bull, said study author Scott Willoughby, of the Cardiovascular Research Center at the Royal Adelaide Hospital and Adelaide University.

In a statement, Red Bull officials said the drink had been proved safe by numerous scientific studies, and that it had never been banned from anywhere it had been introduced, the Times reported.

Red Bull is sold in 143 countries but is banned in Norway, Denmark and some other countries due to health concerns.

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Teens Having Easier Time Getting Prescription Drugs

It's easier to illegally obtain prescription drugs such as OxyContin, Percocet, Vicodin or Ritalin than it is to get beer, say a growing number of American teens.

Researchers at the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University surveyed 1,002 12- to-17-year-olds and found that 19 percent said it was easier for them to obtain prescription drugs than to get their hands on beer, cigarettes or marijuana, compared with 13 percent a year ago, the Washington Post reported.

The study also found that 34 percent of teens who abuse prescription drugs get them at home or from their parents.

About 25 percent of the teen respondents said marijuana is the easiest substance to buy, and 43 percent of 17-year-olds said they could purchase marijuana in less than an hour, The Post reported.

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Gene Mutation Linked to Colorectal Cancer

A gene mutation strongly linked to colorectal cancer has been identified by Northwestern University researchers. People with the TGFBR1 ASE gene mutation have a 50 percent higher risk of colorectal cancer than the general population.

"This probably accounts for more colorectal cancers than all other gene mutations discovered thus far," said study lead author Boris Pasche, Agence France-Presse reported.

The TGFBR1 ASE mutation results in decreased production of an important receptor for TGF-beta, the most potent inhibitor of cell growth. A reduced ability to inhibit cell growth means it's easier for colon cancer to develop. The study was published in the journal Science.

"The reasonable expectation is this finding will save some lives," said Pasche, AFP reported. "We will be able to identify a larger number of individuals that are at risk of colorectal cancer and, in the long term, maybe decrease the cases of colorectal cancer and of people dying from it by being able to screen them more frequently."

Health Tips for August 18

Health Tip: Sleep Positions While You're Pregnant

As your pregnancy progresses, sleeping may become a little more uncomfortable each month.

The American Pregnancy Association offers these suggestions to help you sleep more comfortably during pregnancy:

* Try sleeping on your side -- particularly your left side, if it's comfortable. Bend your knees, and place a pillow between your knees.
* Also try a pillow under your belly, for support.
* If heartburn bothers you, prop up your upper body with pillows.
* If you feel short of breath, lie on your side or propped up with pillows.
* You should avoid sleeping on your back and on your stomach during pregnancy.

Health Tip: Detecting False Labor

You should speak with your doctor if you're concerned about the possibility that you've gone into labor, or whether you're experiencing a false alarm called "false labor," the American Pregnancy Association says.

The association offers this information that can help you decide whether a trip to the hospital is in order:

* False labor contractions occur at irregular, unpredictable intervals.
* False labor contractions are variable in duration and intensity, while true contractions last at least 30 seconds and become progressively longer.
* False labor contractions often stop no matter what you are doing, while true contractions continue during any activity.
* True labor pains start high in the abdomen, extend to the lower abdomen and around to the lower back. False labor pains, on the other hand, are usually concentrated in the lower abdomen and groin.

Health Headlines - August 17

Food Container Chemical Not Harmful, U.S. Government Scientists Find

A chemical used in the making of baby bottles and other food containers is not dangerous, U.S. Food and Drug Administration researchers have decided.

The Associated Press reports that FDA scientists have confirmed the agency's original decision that the chemical bisphenol A, which hardens plastic, is not a threat to either infants or adults. The European Food Safety Authority made a similar finding in late July.

Trace amounts of bisphenol A have been found to leach into food containers, the FDA acknowledged, but the agency's scientists said they found no evidence that such small amounts were harmful, the A.P. reported.

Canada has already announced it would ban using the chemical in the manufacture of baby bottles, and 10 states in the U.S. are considering similar legislation, the wire service said.

The FDA findings are not the final word, according to the A.P. A September meeting is scheduled, in which experts outside the FDA will debate bisphenol A's safety. The FDA itself has kept the issue open.

More research is needed because "there are always uncertainties associated with safety decisions," the A.P. quotes the FDA as saying.

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Toxins Found in Frozen Shellfish Imported from Ireland

Frozen mussels imported to the United States from Ireland may contain a toxin that can cause stomach cramps, nausea and vomiting, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Two cases of azaspiracid toxin poisoning occurred in July in the state of Washington, according to an FDA news release, and further examination of other containers of "Mussels in a Garlic Butter Sauce" from the same production lot imported by Bantry Bay Seafoods also contained the azaspiracid toxins.

The FDA recommends that consumers discard Bantry Bay Seafood frozen cooked products with "best before end" dates on the side of the box ranging from January 23, 2009, to November 15, 2009: Mussels in a Garlic Butter Sauce; Mussels in White Wine Sauce; and Mussels in Tomato and Garlic Sauce.

The Bantry Bay Seafood products are sold frozen in 1 pound cardboard packages in stores throughout the United States, the FDA says, and store operators have been asked to remove them.

Azaspiracid toxins have never been found in U.S. shellfish beds, the FDA says. They are odorless, tasteless, and can't be destroyed by freezing, cooking, or boiling. Symptoms occur within two hours after the seafood has been eaten and can last up to three days.

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Drinking Red Bull May Cause Heart Damage: Study

Drinking too much of the popular Red Bull energy drink may lead to heart damage, says an Australian study that included 30 university students, ages 20 to 24.

The researchers found that drinking just one 250ml sugar-free can of the caffeinated drink boosted the "stickiness" of the blood and increased the risk of blood clots. After drinking Red Bull, the students had a cardiovascular profile similar to that of someone with heart disease, the Times (U.K.) reported.

The results were alarming and suggest that older adults with symptoms of heart disease shouldn't drink too much Red Bull, said study author Scott Willoughby, of the Cardiovascular Research Center at the Royal Adelaide Hospital and Adelaide University.

In a statement, Red Bull officials said the drink had been proved safe by numerous scientific studies, and that it had never been banned from anywhere it had been introduced, the Times reported.

Red Bull is sold in 143 countries but is banned in Norway, Denmark and some other countries due to health concerns.

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Teens Having Easier Time Getting Prescription Drugs

It's easier to illegally obtain prescription drugs such as OxyContin, Percocet, Vicodin or Ritalin than it is to get beer, say a growing number of American teens.

Researchers at the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University surveyed 1,002 12- to-17-year-olds and found that 19 percent said it was easier for them to obtain prescription drugs than to get their hands on beer, cigarettes or marijuana, compared with 13 percent a year ago, The Washington Post reported.

The study also found that 34 percent of teens who abuse prescription drugs get them at home or from their parents.

About 25 percent of the teen respondents said marijuana is the easiest substance to buy, and 43 percent of 17-year-olds said they could purchase marijuana in less than an hour, The Post reported.

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Gene Mutation Linked to Colorectal Cancer

A gene mutation strongly linked to colorectal cancer has been identified by Northwestern University researchers. People with the TGFBR1 ASE gene mutation have a 50 percent higher risk of colorectal cancer than the general population.

"This probably accounts for more colorectal cancers than all other gene mutations discovered thus far," said study lead author Boris Pasche, Agence France Presse reported.

The TGFBR1 ASE mutation results in decreased production of an important receptor for TGF-beta, the most potent inhibitor of cell growth. A reduced ability to inhibit cell growth means it's easier for colon cancer to develop. The study was published in the journal Science.

"The reasonable expectation is this finding will save some lives," said Pasche, AFP reported. "We will be able to identify a larger number of individuals that are at risk of colorectal cancer and, in the long term, maybe decrease the cases of colorectal cancer and of people dying from it by being able to screen them more frequently."

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Lack of Judgment Endangers Teen Drivers

A lack of judgment about the risks of driving may explain why teens have the highest crash and fatality rates of any age group, according to Canadian researchers.

The team at St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto evaluated 262 high school students and found they consistently underestimated the risks of driving due to a number of mistaken beliefs, CBC News reported.

For example, the teens assumed that:

• Their age and agility would enable them to overcome the effects of poor driving conditions or intoxication better than more experienced drivers.
• Vehicle and highway design were more likely than human error to cause crashes.
• In the event of a crash, doctors would be able to save their lives and leave them unscathed.

"Students need to comprehend that it is a lack of judgment, not only lack of skill, that increases the risk of injury to oneself and others," said Dr. Najma Ahmed, assistant trauma director at St. Michael's, CBC News reported.

The study was published in the August issue of the Journal of the American College of Surgeons.

Health Tips for August 17

Health Tip: Prevent Jet Lag

Jet lag can dampen the fun of any trip when your body struggles to adjust to a new time zone.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offers these suggestions to prevent jet lag:

* Start your trip well-rested. Make sure you get plenty of sleep before your trip.
* Avoid alcohol and overeating.
* Eat healthy meals.
* Get as much exercise as possible.
* Avoid sleep medications. If you use them, don't take them for more than a few days.
* Follow the schedule of the time zone you are in. Eat meals and go to bed when the locals do.

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 - August 16

Drinking Red Bull May Cause Heart Damage: Study

Drinking too much of the popular Red Bull energy drink may lead to heart damage, says an Australian study that included 30 university students, ages 20 to 24.

The researchers found that drinking just one 250ml sugar-free can of the caffeinated drink boosted the "stickiness" of the blood and increased the risk of blood clots. After drinking Red Bull, the students had a cardiovascular profile similar to that of someone with heart disease, the Times (U.K.) reported.

The results were alarming and suggest that older adults with symptoms of heart disease shouldn't drink too much Red Bull, said study author Scott Willoughby, of the Cardiovascular Research Center at the Royal Adelaide Hospital and Adelaide University.

In a statement, Red Bull officials said the drink had been proved safe by numerous scientific studies, and that it had never been banned from anywhere it had been introduced, the Times reported.

Red Bull is sold in 143 countries but is banned in Norway, Denmark and some other countries due to health concerns.

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Teens Having Easier Time Getting Prescription Drugs

It's easier to illegally obtain prescription drugs such as OxyContin, Percocet, Vicodin or Ritalin than it is to get beer, say a growing number of American teens.

Researchers at the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University surveyed 1,002 12- to-17-year-olds and found that 19 percent said it was easier for them to obtain prescription drugs than to get their hands on beer, cigarettes or marijuana, compared with 13 percent a year ago, The Washington Post reported.

The study also found that 34 percent of teens who abuse prescription drugs get them at home or from their parents.

About 25 percent of the teen respondents said marijuana is the easiest substance to buy, and 43 percent of 17-year-olds said they could purchase marijuana in less than an hour, The Post reported.

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Gene Mutation Linked to Colorectal Cancer

A gene mutation strongly linked to colorectal cancer has been identified by Northwestern University researchers. People with the TGFBR1 ASE gene mutation have a 50 percent higher risk of colorectal cancer than the general population.

"This probably accounts for more colorectal cancers than all other gene mutations discovered thus far," said study lead author Boris Pasche, Agence France Presse reported.

The TGFBR1 ASE mutation results in decreased production of an important receptor for TGF-beta, the most potent inhibitor of cell growth. A reduced ability to inhibit cell growth means it's easier for colon cancer to develop. The study was published in the journal Science.

"The reasonable expectation is this finding will save some lives," said Pasche, AFP reported. "We will be able to identify a larger number of individuals that are at risk of colorectal cancer and, in the long term, maybe decrease the cases of colorectal cancer and of people dying from it by being able to screen them more frequently."

-----

Lack of Judgment Endangers Teen Drivers

A lack of judgment about the risks of driving may explain why teens have the highest crash and fatality rates of any age group, according to Canadian researchers.

The team at St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto evaluated 262 high school students and found they consistently underestimated the risks of driving due to a number of mistaken beliefs, CBC News reported.

For example, the teens assumed that:

• Their age and agility would enable them to overcome the effects of poor driving conditions or intoxication better than more experienced drivers.
• Vehicle and highway design were more likely than human error to cause crashes.
• In the event of a crash, doctors would be able to save their lives and leave them unscathed.

"Students need to comprehend that it is a lack of judgment, not only lack of skill, that increases the risk of injury to oneself and others," said Dr. Najma Ahmed, assistant trauma director at St. Michael's, CBC News reported.

The study was published in the August issue of the Journal of the American College of Surgeons.

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Bush Signs Bill Banning Lead in Children's Products

Legislation that bans lead from children's products was signed Thursday by President George W. Bush, giving the United States the toughest standard in the world. The bill was passed by both houses of Congress two weeks ago.

Under the new law, lead beyond minute levels is prohibited in products for children under 12 years old, the Associated Press reported. Last year, lead paint was a major factor in U.S. recalls of 45 million toys and other children's products, mainly from China.

The new legislation also bans the use of phthalates, chemicals used to make plastic products softer and more flexible. It also gives the federal Consumer Product Safety Commission more money and power to oversee testing of products and to penalize violators.

Each year in the United States, unsafe products cause about 28,000 deaths, according to the CPSC. Last year, faulty consumer products injured more than 33 million people, the AP reported.

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Neck Artery Stent Devices Recalled

Stents and related devices made by Boston Scientific -- used to keep once-clogged neck arteries open -- are being recalled because of problems with the system used to implant the stents, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said Thursday.

The recall affecting the NexStent Monorail, NexStent Carotid Stent and Monorail Delivery System does not affect devices that have already been implanted, the Dow Jones news service reported. Affected devices were produced between June 12, 2007 and May 2, 2008.

Stents are hollow tubes of wire mesh that are surgically implanted inside an artery to keep it open after a procedure to unclog the blood vessel. The affected devices are meant to be used in the carotid artery, a primary supplier of blood to the brain. They're being recalled because "the tip of the stent delivery system may detach from the delivery system during the procedure," the news service said, citing a notice on the FDA's Web site.

This problem could "lead to increased procedure time, cause vessel wall injury, stroke and/or emergency surgery to remove the detached tip," the agency warning continued.

The FDA said Boston Scientific sent a recall letter to customers on June 6.

Health Tips for August 16

Health Tip: Managing a Chronic Illness

Managing a chronic illness, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, may seem overwhelming.

Here are helpful suggestions for people with a chronic illness, courtesy of the American Academy of Family Physicians:

* Take a look at your unhealthy behaviors, and choose one or several that you want to work on and improve.
* Come up with a specific plan and goals for dealing with each unhealthy behavior.
* Devise alternate plans to help you stick to your goals -- for example, how to handle weather that affects your exercise plans.
* Make sure your goals are realistic, and that you feel confident that you can reach them.
* Talk to your doctor about your goals, and discuss your progress.

Health Tip: Can't Sleep?

If you have trouble falling or staying asleep, it's important to understand the reasons for your insomnia.

Here's a list of possible reasons for your sleepless nights, courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine:

* Discomfort or illness.
* Depression.
* Stress or anxiety.
* Drinking caffeine or alcohol, smoking, or taking certain medications or illicit drugs.
* An inappropriate sleep environment, including one that's too bright or too noisy.
* Related activities that affect your sleep, such as taking naps or going to bed too early.

Health Headlines - August 15

Bush Signs Bill Banning Lead in Children's Products

Legislation that bans lead from children's products was signed Thursday by President George W. Bush, giving the United States the toughest standard in the world. The bill was passed by both houses of Congress two weeks ago.

Under the new law, lead beyond minute levels is prohibited in products for children under 12 years old, the Associated Press reported. Last year, lead paint was a major factor in U.S. recalls of 45 million toys and other children's products, mainly from China.

The new legislation also bans the use of phthalates, chemicals used to make plastic products softer and more flexible. It also gives the federal Consumer Product Safety Commission more money and power to oversee testing of products and to penalize violators.

Each year in the United States, unsafe products cause about 28,000 deaths, according to the CPSC. Last year, faulty consumer products injured more than 33 million people, the AP reported.

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Neck Artery Stent Devices Recalled

Stents and related devices made by Boston Scientific -- used to keep once-clogged neck arteries open -- are being recalled because of problems with the system used to implant the stents, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said Thursday.

The recall affecting the NexStent Monorail, NexStent Carotid Stent and Monorail Delivery System does not affect devices that have already been implanted, the Dow Jones news service reported. Affected devices were produced between June 12, 2007 and May 2, 2008.

Stents are hollow tubes of wire mesh that are surgically implanted inside an artery to keep it open after a procedure to unclog the blood vessel. The affected devices are meant to be used in the carotid artery, a primary supplier of blood to the brain. They're being recalled because "the tip of the stent delivery system may detach from the delivery system during the procedure," the news service said, citing a notice on the FDA's Web site.

This problem could "lead to increased procedure time, cause vessel wall injury, stroke and/or emergency surgery to remove the detached tip," the agency warning continued.

The FDA said Boston Scientific sent a recall letter to customers on June 6.

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Food Additive MSG Increases Risk of Overweight

People who eat foods with monosodium glutamate (MSG) are more likely to be overweight, according to American and Chinese researchers who studied more than 750 people, ages 40 to 59, in three rural villages in China.

About 82 percent of the study participants used MSG in their home food preparation. One-third of those who used the most MSG were nearly three time more likely to be overweight than people who didn't use MSG, United Press International reported.

"We saw this risk even when we controlled for physical activity, total calorie intake and other possible explanations for the difference in body mass," Dr. Ka He, of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Public Health, said in a news release.

"The positive associations between MSG intake and overweight were consistent with data from animal studies," said He, UPI reported.

The study was published in the journal Obesity.

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U.S. Traffic Deaths Decreased in 2007

U.S. traffic fatalities declined last year to 41,059, the lowest death toll since 40,716 people were killed in 1994, says a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration report released Thursday. Safer vehicles and aggressive law enforcement were among the reasons cited for the decline.

The 2007 fatality rate of 1.37 deaths for every 100 million miles was the lowest on record. California had the largest number decline in 2007, with 266 fewer traffic deaths than the previous year. South Dakota and Vermont had the largest percentage decreases, while North Carolina had the largest percentage increase -- 121 percent, the Associated Press reported.

Traffic injuries decreased for the eighth straight year, from 2.58 million in 2006 to 2.49 million in 2007.

While there was an overall decrease in traffic deaths, motorcycle deaths increased for the 10th straight year, going from 4,837 in 2006 to 5,154 in 2007. Officials noted there are now more than six million registered motorcycles in the United States, compared with 3.8 million in 1998, the AP reported.

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A Happy Attitude May Extend Life

Being happy may add several years to your life, suggests a Dutch researcher who reviewed 30 studies conducted around the world.

Ruut Veenhoven of Erasmus University in Rotterdam concluded that the effects of happiness on longevity were "comparable to that of smoking or not," and that being happy could extend a person's life by 7.5 to 10 years, Agence France Presse reported.

Among the studies reviewed by Veenhoven, the strongest effect of happiness on longevity was seen in a group of American nuns, which may reflect the benefits of belonging to a close-knit, stress-free community with a sense of purpose.

The study was published in the Journal of Happiness Studies.

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Birth Control Pills May Impair Women's Mate Selection: Study

Taking birth control pills may hinder a woman's ability to select a genetically compatible mate, say researchers at the University of Newcastle in England.

Normally, women's sense of smell instinctively leads them to men with a dissimilar genetic makeup -- a union that improves the likelihood of successful conception and healthy children.

However, this study of 100 women found that the use of birth control pills disrupted the capacity to sniff out a suitable partner, Agence France Presse reported.

"The results showed that the preferences of women who began using the contraceptive pill shifted toward men with genetically similar odors," said team leader Craig Roberts. This can lead to relationship problems in the long term, he suggested.

"It could ultimately lead to the breakdown of relationships when women stop using the contraceptive pills, as odor perception plays a significant role in maintaining attraction to partners," said Roberts, AFP reported.

The study was published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Science.

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Portable Machine Speeds Bird Flu Diagnosis

A portable testing machine that can diagnose human cases of bird flu in about two hours is being developed by researchers at Nottingham Trent University in Great Britain. At the moment, it takes about one week for lab testing to confirm bird flu.

Using a swab of saliva taken from a patient's mouth, the unit can detect molecules specific to the potentially deadly H5N1 virus or other bird flu strains, BBC News reported.

Quicker identification of H5N1 means patients can start treatment sooner, which may improve their odds of survival. The machine may also boost efforts to contain outbreaks.

"There's a large train of thought that one of the best ways of dealing with avian influenza is by detection and containment," said researcher Dr. Alan McNally, BBC News reported. "The ability to detect and type the influenza virus immediately is essential in setting up controls as quickly as possible to minimize the spread of any potential pandemic virus."

Health Tips for August 15

Health Tip: Help Control Irritable Bowel

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic illness of the digestive tract. There are two main types: Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says.

The agency offers these suggestions to help keep IBD under control:

* Take certain nutritional supplements. Discuss options with your doctor.
* Reduce the amount of dairy products in your diet.
* Eat a low-fat diet recommended by your doctor.
* Stay away from foods high in undigestible fiber, as well as highly seasoned foods.
* Eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day.

Health Tip: Belching and Bloating

Gas and bloating are normal human functions that could be exacerbated by factors including diet and lifestyle.

The American College of Gastroenterology offers these suggestions to help prevent or ease gas and bloating:

* Eat slowly. And if you frequently have gas and bloating, avoid chewing gum and drinking carbonated beverages.
* Treat constipation, if present.
* Avoid too many foods that may be difficult to digest, including brussels sprouts, cabbage, beans and lentils.
* Avoid fiber supplements if you don't need them, as well as foods with sorbitol and fructose.
* Medications designed to relieve gas may provide some relief.
* Frequent belching may be a symptom of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), which should be treated without delay.

Health Headlines - August 14

Pedigree Pet Food Recalled in California

California health officials have recalled a type of Pedigree bagged pet food that may be contaminated with salmonella, the Associated Press reported Wednesday.

Certain 20-pound bags of Pedigree Complete Nutrition Small Crunchy Bites were pulled from the market after the manufacturer -- Mars Petcare US of Franklin, Tenn. -- said an ingredient that should not have been used after positive test results was accidentally shipped to a California distribution facility in Tracy. The bags have best buy dates of 07/2009.

The ingredient was used in about 100 bags of food that were sent to Albertson's stores in southern California and to Costco locations across the state, the wire service said.

There have been no reports of illness among pets that ate the recalled food.

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Insufficient Therapy May Have Been Given to Vets With Prostate Cancer

The Philadelphia VA Medical Center says it may have given insufficient radiation therapy to as many as 114 veterans with prostate cancer during the past six years, the Associated Press reported.

Two of the veterans have died, and a hospital spokeswoman said the facility hadn't determined whether their deaths were related to the possible error.

The veterans had radioactive "rods" or "seeds" implanted that were designed to destroy nearby cancer cells. Most men who undergo that procedure as their only treatment have low-risk prostate cancer, the AP said.

The hospital said it has suspended the program until it concludes an investigation, the wire service reported.

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Vitamin D Levels May Affect Chronic Pain in Women

Low levels of vitamin D may contribute to chronic pain in women, suggests a study that looked at 7,000 women and men in England, Scotland and Wales.

Higher rates of chronic pain were reported by smokers, non-drinkers, and overweight and underweight people. Among women, vitamin D levels also seemed to be a major factor, BBC News reported.

Women with vitamin D levels between 75 and 99 mmol/liter -- a range believed necessary for good bone health -- had the lowest rates of chronic pain (8 percent), while women with vitamin D levels less than 25 mmol/liter had the highest rates of chronic pain (14.4 percent).

No link between vitamin D and chronic pain was seen in men, which suggests female hormones may be a factor, said the researchers from the Institute of Child Health in London. They said further research is needed to determine if vitamin D supplements can protect women against chronic pain, BBC News reported.

The study was published in the journal Annals of Rheumatic Diseases.

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Botox Treatments Increase, Despite Slowing Economy

The economy may be in decline, but U.S. sales of Botox increased 13 percent to $316 million in the last quarter, according to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.

A survey of members found that 40 percent of respondents said their current number of Botox procedures had increased compared to six months ago, and 28 percent of respondents said their current use of fillers increased up to 30 percent compared to six months ago, United Press International reported.

It's not surprising that demand for cosmetic procedures is increasing during tougher economic times, said one doctor.

"Despite what's going on in the economy, people are looking for ways to keep a youthful appearance not just for personal reasons but for their careers," Dr. Kimberly Finder, director of The Face Place in San Antonio, said in a news release, UPI reported. "Who wants to go to work or to an interview and look tired?

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Oily Fish May Protect Against Eye Disease: Study

Regular consumption of oily fish may help protect against vision loss caused by wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), European researchers say.

They found that people who consumed the most (300 milligrams a day or more) of fish-based omega 3 fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) were 70 percent less likely to have wet AMD, United Press International reported.

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

"This is the first study in Europeans to show a beneficial association on wet age-related macular degeneration from the consumption of oily fish and is consistent with results from studies in the United States and Australia," study leader Astrid Fletcher, of the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, said in a news release.

She noted that two, 3-ounce servings per week of oily fish such as salmon, tuna or mackerel provide about 500 milligrams of DHA and EPA per day, UPI reported.

Health Tips for August 14

Health Tip: Something in Your Eye?

Getting something in your eye can be irritating enough, but you do more damage to your eye while trying to get it out.

To get dust, an eyelash, or other small particle out of your eye without injuring yourself, follow these suggestions from the U.S. National Library of Medicine:

* Wash your hands thoroughly, and examine your eye in a mirror in a well-lighted room. Look up, down, and side to side, and try to locate the particle in your eye.
* Do not rub your eye.
* If you can't find the particle, gently pull down the skin beneath your eye and look under the lower lid. Also gently grasp the upper lid and look underneath there, as well.
* Try to gently rinse the eye or eyelid with water when you find the particle.
* If you can't easily remove the particle or it looks like it's already damaged the eye, seek immediate medical attention.

Health Tip: Wear Eye Protection

Eye injuries can occur when you're playing sports, working with tools or chemicals, or even in the kitchen.

The U.S. National Safety Council says you should always wear eye protection when you are:

* Working with or around any type of chemical.
* Using tools to make repairs around the home.
* Playing any sport that involves a ball or other object that could strike your eye.

You can protect your glasses or contact lenses with safety goggles. You should also always wear sunglasses when you're out in the sun.

Health Headlines - August 13

Insufficient Therapy May Have Been Given to Vets With Prostate Cancer

The Philadelphia VA Medical Center says it may have given insufficient radiation therapy to as many as 114 veterans with prostate cancer during the past six years, the Associated Press reported.

Two of the veterans have died, and a hospital spokeswoman said the facility hadn't determined whether their deaths were related to the possible error.

The veterans had radioactive "rods" or "seeds" implanted that were designed to destroy nearby cancer cells. Most men who undergo that procedure as their only treatment have low-risk prostate cancer, the AP said.

The hospital said it has suspended the program until it concludes an investigation, the wire service reported.

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Vitamin D Levels May Affect Chronic Pain in Women

Low levels of vitamin D may contribute to chronic pain in women, suggests a study that looked at 7,000 women and men in England, Scotland and Wales.

Higher rates of chronic pain were reported by smokers, non-drinkers, and overweight and underweight people. Among women, vitamin D levels also seemed to be a major factor, BBC News reported.

Women with vitamin D levels between 75 and 99 mmol/liter -- a range believed necessary for good bone health -- had the lowest rates of chronic pain (8 percent), while women with vitamin D levels less than 25 mmol/liter had the highest rates of chronic pain (14.4 percent).

No link between vitamin D and chronic pain was seen in men, which suggests female hormones may be a factor, said the researchers from the Institute of Child Health in London. They said further research is needed to determine if vitamin D supplements can protect women against chronic pain, BBC News reported.

The study was published in the journal Annals of Rheumatic Diseases.

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Botox Treatments Increase, Despite Slowing Economy

The economy may be in decline, but U.S. sales of Botox increased 13 percent to $316 million in the last quarter, according to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.

A survey of members found that 40 percent of respondents said their current number of Botox procedures had increased compared to six months ago, and 28 percent of respondents said their current use of fillers increased up to 30 percent compared to six months ago, United Press International reported.

It's not surprising that demand for cosmetic procedures is increasing during tougher economic times, said one doctor.

"Despite what's going on in the economy, people are looking for ways to keep a youthful appearance not just for personal reasons but for their careers," Dr. Kimberly Finder, director of The Face Place in San Antonio, said in a news release, UPI reported. "Who wants to go to work or to an interview and look tired?

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Oily Fish May Protect Against Eye Disease: Study

Regular consumption of oily fish may help protect against vision loss caused by wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), European researchers say.

They found that people who consumed the most (300 milligrams a day or more) of fish-based omega 3 fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) were 70 percent less likely to have wet AMD, United Press International reported.

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

"This is the first study in Europeans to show a beneficial association on wet age-related macular degeneration from the consumption of oily fish and is consistent with results from studies in the United States and Australia," study leader Astrid Fletcher, of the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, said in a news release.

She noted that two, 3-ounce servings per week of oily fish such as salmon, tuna or mackerel provide about 500 milligrams of DHA and EPA per day, UPI reported.

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School Stress Leading Reason for Teen Drug Use: Survey

Coping with school-related stress and pressures is the main reason U.S. teens give for using drugs, according to a Partnership for a Drug-Free America survey that appears to confirm that drugs are increasingly used by teens as a way to solve problems rather than for fun.

The survey of 6,511 teens found that 73 percent reported school stress as the chief reason for drug use, United Press International reported. However, only seven percent of parents believe teens use drugs to cope with stress.

Overall use of marijuana, Ecstasy, inhalants, methamphetamine, alcohol and cigarettes has declined, according to the survey.

It also found that about 20 percent of teens have abused painkillers and other prescription medicines, and that 41 percent think prescription drug abuse is safer than illegal drug use, UPI reported.

Health Tips for August 13

Health Tip: Prepare Yourself for Surgery

In the days before surgery, it's important to make sure that you are physically healthy, and that your mind is relaxed and prepared.

Here are suggestions from the National Women's Health Resource Center on what to do before your operation:

* Maintain a healthy, balanced diet. Be sure to get enough vitamin C, which will help your body heal.
* Quit smoking and avoid alcohol.
* Get regular exercise.
* Don't use blood-thinning medications, including aspirin, for one week before surgery. If you have a need to take such medications, discuss this with your doctor.
* Keep a positive attitude.
* Talk to your doctor about how to control post-surgical pain.
* Try deep breathing techniques and relaxation exercises.

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 Headlines - August 12

School Stress Leading Reason for Teen Drug Use: Survey

Coping with school-related stress and pressures is the main reason U.S. teens give for using drugs, according to a Partnership for a Drug-Free America survey that appears to confirm that drugs are increasingly used by teens as a way to solve problems rather than for fun.

The survey of 6,511 teens found that 73 percent reported school stress as the chief reason for drug use, United Press International reported. However, only seven percent of parents believe teens use drugs to cope with stress.

Overall use of marijuana, Ecstasy, inhalants, methamphetamine, alcohol and cigarettes has declined, according to the survey.

It also found that about 20 percent of teens have abused painkillers and other prescription medicines, and that 41 percent think prescription drug abuse is safer than illegal drug use, UPI reported.

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Few U.S. Mothers Breast-feed For 6 Months

About 75 percent of new American mothers try breast-feeding, but many quit before their babies are 6 months old, says a Brigham Young University study that found only 36 percent of babies are breast-fed through six months.

The analysis of national data on more than 60,000 children found that mothers with higher levels of education and income were most likely to breast-feed for more than six months, The New York Times reported. Breast-feeding was also more likely to be done by married women, those in western states, Hispanic women and those born in other countries.

The likelihood of long-term breast-feeding decreased among women who were returning to work, smokers, and those living in the Northeast, said the study, published in the August issue of the Journal of Human Lactation.

It also found lower levels of long-term breast-feeding among low-income women who took part in the subsidized Women, Infants and Children program, which provides food, milk and formula to mothers and young children, the Times reported.

"Breast-feeding promotion programs encourage women to start but don't provide the support to continue," said study co-author Renata Forste.

Breast-feeding is recommended through the first year of life, says the American Academy of Pediatrics.

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California Considers Bisphenol A Restrictions

California lawmakers are considering what could be the first statewide restrictions on bisphenol A, a chemical used in infant formula cans and plastic baby bottles. Under the bill, all food containers or products designed for children age 3 years and younger could contain only trace amounts of the chemical, which can disrupt the hormonal system, the Associated Press reported.

The bill was approved earlier this year by the state Senate and is awaiting an Assembly vote. It's not clear whether Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger would sign the bill.

While scientists have differing opinions about the danger posed by bisphenol A, consumer concern has pushed some retailers and governments to take action. At least 11 other states have considered bills to restrict the chemical and Congress is considering banning it in children's products. Wal-Mart Stores and Toys "R" Us have said they planned to stop selling baby bottles made with bisphenol A, the AP reported.

The chemical industry, food processors, and grocery retailers argue that the chemical has been used safely for more than 50 years.

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Protein Receptor Images May Lead to Better Leukemia Treatments

The first 3-D images of a protein receptor in white blood cells that can lead to leukemia when it malfunctions have been created by Australian researchers. The achievement may lead to improved drug treatments for leukemia and other diseases such as asthma and rheumatoid arthritis, the researchers said.

The new images show the precise appearance of the receptor -- which interacts with a hormone called GM-CSF -- and exactly how it works, Agence France Presse reported.

The research about this protein receptor -- associated with some of the most aggressive and deadly forms of leukemia -- is published in the journal Cell.

"At the moment, many leukemias are treated with chemotherapy that destroys the diseased blood cells and bone marrows as well as normal cells," Professor Micheal Parker, of St. Vincent's Institute in Melbourne, told AFP. "We hope this discovery will lead to targeted therapies, more specific to the malfunctioning cells seen in diseases such as leukemia."

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Scientists Identify New Species of Mouth Bacteria

A new species of bacteria that may be associated with tooth decay and gum disease has been identified by researchers at King's College London in Great Britain. The discovery of the new bacteria Prevotella histicola could help improve understanding of changes in bacterial activity that cause oral health problems.

The Prevotella family of bacteria is associated with various oral diseases, as well as infections in other parts of the body.

The King's College team found three strains of the new Prevotella bacteria species inside the flesh lining of the mouth. The new species was identified in both healthy tissue and inside oral cancer cells, BBC News reported.

More than 600 species of bacteria live in the human mouth and many of them haven't been identified. It's important to find unrecognized species of mouth bacteria, especially those that may cause disease, Professor Hugh Pennington, an emeritus professor of microbiology at Aberdeen University, told BBC News.

The study was published in the International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology.

Health Tips for August 12

Health Tip: What to Wear While Running

Before going for a run, it's important to wear the right clothing.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers these guidelines for what to wear when you're running:

* When the weather is cold, dress in layers. The deepest layer should be designed to take moisture away from the skin.
* Put on a middle layer that absorbs sweat and insulates you, and an outer layer that protects you from wind and rain.
* During extreme cold, avoid exposed skin. On areas that are exposed, including the face, apply petroleum jelly.
* Choose a good, sturdy running shoe with plenty of shock absorption.
* Replace your running shoes every nine to 12 months.
* In the summer months, the time of day is as important as what you're wearing. Run late in the evening or early in the morning, when it's cooler.

Health Tip: Running Safely

Preparing your body, choosing your course and planning for the running environment are important steps toward preventing running injuries.

Here are additional safety suggestions for runners, courtesy of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons:

* Warm up and stretch before a run, and cool down and stretch afterward.
* Run with a partner or buddy. If running alone, make sure someone else knows where you'll be.
* Run in safe, familiar areas with minimal vehicle traffic.
* Protect yourself from the sun.
* Avoid running at night. If you do run when light is fading, wear reflective clothing.
* Run on smooth, fairly soft surfaces with a clear path. Avoid hills, which stress the ankles and feet.

Health Headlines - August 11

Suspected E. coli Causes Nationwide Recall of 1.2 Million Pounds of Ground Beef

For the second time in a month, beef from a large Nebraska meat processor has been recalled... this time, 1.2 million pounds.

According to the Washington Post, the fresh ground beef, believed to contain the dangerous E. coli bacterium, was recalled from the upscale Whole Foods stores nationwide Saturday. The beef had been processed at Nebraska Beef of Omaha, one of the nation's largest meatpackers, the newspaper reported.

Just last month, 5 million pounds of beef produced by Nebraska Beef had to be recalled after nearly 50 cases of E. coli had been confirmed. The meat processor was allowed to continue operations after making a number of operational changes, according to the Associated Press.

But 31 new cases have been reported since Aug. 1 in 12 states and Washington, D.C., the Post reports. Seven people who became ill from E. coli O157:H7 had bought their meat at Whole Foods, the newspaper reports. Whole Foods Market issued a statement saying that ground beef bought from from June 2 to Aug. 6 should be thrown out.

Meanwhile, Nebraska Beef continues to operate while being observed by inspectors from the U.S. department of Agriculture. "We will continue to investigate to see what is happening at the plant to see what they have to do to get a handle on their food-safety issues," USDA spokeswoman Laura Reiser told the Post.

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

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Gift Card Program Latest Effort to Reduce HIV/AIDS Incidence

Could a $25 gift card given to the right person help stop the spread of HIV/AIDS?

According to the Associated Press, U.S. government officials think it's worth trying, to the tune of $1.5 million.

With the latest statistics showing that the majority of HIV cases in the United States still occur among homosexual males, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is reviving a 2005 North Carolina program that resulted in encouraging results for more young gay men practicing safe sex (using a condom), the A.P. reports.

According to the wire service, the North Carolina program was relatively simple: CDC officials would go to gay nightclubs and other places where gay men gathered in the Charlotte, Raleigh and Greensboro areas and find men who were popular, respected and had social standing. These men were given four $25 gift cards along with HIV/AIDS marketing materials and encouraged to promote safe sex among their peers, the wire service said.

This simple experiment had good results, the A.P. said. Surveys of 300 men in the three North Carolina communities found a 32 percent reduction in unprotected sex and a 40 percent reduction in the average number of sexual partners, the wire service reported. The CDC is going to try the program now in about 200 communities over a two year period, the A.P. reported.

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Interaction Between Cholesterol, Heart Meds May Cause Muscle Damage

People who take the anti-cholesterol drugs Zocor (generic: simvastatin) or Vytorin along with a medication to control irregular heartbeat are at increased risk of severe muscle damage, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned Friday.

Zocor and Vytorin, which contains the active ingredient in Zocor, are statins, and muscle damage is a known but rare side effect of the drugs. The heart rhythm drug is called either Cordarone or Pacerone (generic: amiodarone). The danger rises among those who take more than 20 milligrams daily of the cholesterol drugs, according to the agency warning cited by the Associated Press.

The FDA first warned in 2002 about an interaction between the two types of medications, but that hasn't prevented the problem, the AP reported. Over the past six years, the agency has gathered 52 reports of serious muscle damage among people who took both medicines.

Most of those injuries required hospitalization, the wire service said.

The FDA warned that people who are taking the heart rhythm drug should switch to a different statin to control cholesterol.

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Pandemic Flu Biggest Threat to U.K.: Report

The most serious danger facing the U.K. over the next five years is pandemic flu, not terrorism, according to a national threat assessment released Friday by Britain's Cabinet Office.

The document's authors assessed the level of risk posed by a number of threats, including terrorism, extreme weather, climate change and pandemic flu, the Associated Press reported.

The document doesn't actually rank the threats in order of seriousness, but does say that pandemic flu is considered the most pressing concern, according to a Cabinet Office spokeswoman.

Previous government assessments concluded that a pandemic flu outbreak could kill as many as 750,000 people in Britain and that it could take as long as several months to develop vaccines to deal with a specific strain of the virus, the AP reported.

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Study Examines Possible Link Between Gluten/Dairy Products and Autism

A study to investigate whether gluten or dairy products contribute to autistic behavior is being conducted by researchers at the University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston.

The double-blind clinical study will include 38 autistic children, ages 3 to 9. All of them will be taken off gluten (a protein in wheat) and dairy products before the start of the four-week study. When the study begins, half the children will be given gluten/milk powder and half will be given a placebo powder, United Press International reported.

Some parents of autistic children believe casomorphin (a peptide in milk) and gliadomorphin (a peptide in gluten) affect their children's behavior.

"There's a lot of misinformation, so that's why this study is so important. Hundreds and hundreds of parents think [changing diet] works but we need serious evidence," lead investigator Dr. Fernando Navarro said in a news release cited by UPI.

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Fertility Treatments Offer Little Benefit For Some Couples

The infertility drug clomifene citrate and artificial insemination do little to help certain couples who can't have children naturally, according to Scottish researchers.

Their study included 580 couples who had no obvious reasons for their inability to conceive. The couples were divided into three groups and received either the drug, artificial insemination, or no treatment. There was little difference between the three groups in the numbers of women who had babies, the Associated Press reported.

Women in the clomifene citrate group had 26 babies, compared to 32 babies in the no-treatment group and 43 babies in the artificial insemination group. The findings appear in the British Medical Journal.

"These treatments are a leap of faith," said lead author Dr. Siladitya Bhattacharya, a professor of reproductive medicine at the University of Aberdeen, the AP reported. "None of the treatments studied had any significant benefit over no treatment at all."

Health Tips for August 11

Health Tip: Detecting False Labor

You should speak with your doctor if you're concerned about the possibility that you've gone into labor, or whether you're experiencing a false alarm called "false labor," the American Pregnancy Association says.

The association offers this information that can help you decide whether a trip to the hospital is in order:

* False labor contractions occur at irregular, unpredictable intervals.
* False labor contractions are variable in duration and intensity, while true contractions last at least 30 seconds and become progressively longer.
* False labor contractions often stop no matter what you are doing, while true contractions continue during any activity.
* True labor pains start high in the abdomen, extend to the lower abdomen and around to the lower back. False labor pains, on the other hand, are usually concentrated in the lower abdomen and groin.

Health Tip: When to Induce Labor

Most pregnant women will go into labor naturally, but sometimes it's safer for doctors to induce labor.

Here are reasons for why a doctor might decide to induce labor, courtesy of the American Academy of Family Physicians:

* Going two weeks or longer past the due date.
* Having no contractions after the woman's water breaks.
* Having high blood pressure.
* Having an infection in the uterus.
* Having diabetes.
* Having an insufficient amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the baby.

Health Headlines - August 10

Gift Card Program Latest Effort to Reduce HIV/AIDS Incidence

Could a $25 gift card given to the right person help stop the spread of HIV/AIDS?

According to the Associated Press, U.S. government officials think it's worth trying, to the tune of $1.5 million.

With the latest statistics showing that the majority of HIV cases in the United States still occur among homosexual males, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is reviving a 2005 North Carolina program that resulted in encouraging results for more young gay men practicing safe sex (using a condom), the A.P. reports.

According to the wire service, the North Carolina program was relatively simple: CDC officials would go to gay nightclubs and other places where gay men gathered in the Charlotte, Raleigh and Greensboro areas and find men who were popular, respected and had social standing. These men were given four $25 gift cards along with HIV/AIDS marketing materials and encouraged to promote safe sex among their peers, the wire service said.

This simple experiment had good results, the A.P. said. Surveys of 300 men in the three North Carolina communities found a 32 percent reduction in unprotected sex and a 40 percent reduction in the average number of sexual partners, the wire service reported. The CDC is going to try the program now in about 200 communities over a two year period, the A.P. reported.

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Interaction Between Cholesterol, Heart Meds May Cause Muscle Damage

People who take the anti-cholesterol drugs Zocor (generic: simvastatin) or Vytorin along with a medication to control irregular heartbeat are at increased risk of severe muscle damage, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned Friday.

Zocor and Vytorin, which contains the active ingredient in Zocor, are statins, and muscle damage is a known but rare side effect of the drugs. The heart rhythm drug is called either Cordarone or Pacerone (generic: amiodarone). The danger rises among those who take more than 20 milligrams daily of the cholesterol drugs, according to the agency warning cited by the Associated Press.

The FDA first warned in 2002 about an interaction between the two types of medications, but that hasn't prevented the problem, the AP reported. Over the past six years, the agency has gathered 52 reports of serious muscle damage among people who took both medicines.

Most of those injuries required hospitalization, the wire service said.

The FDA warned that people who are taking the heart rhythm drug should switch to a different statin to control cholesterol.

-----

Pandemic Flu Biggest Threat to U.K.: Report

The most serious danger facing the U.K. over the next five years is pandemic flu, not terrorism, according to a national threat assessment released Friday by Britain's Cabinet Office.

The document's authors assessed the level of risk posed by a number of threats, including terrorism, extreme weather, climate change and pandemic flu, the Associated Press reported.

The document doesn't actually rank the threats in order of seriousness, but does say that pandemic flu is considered the most pressing concern, according to a Cabinet Office spokeswoman.

Previous government assessments concluded that a pandemic flu outbreak could kill as many as 750,000 people in Britain and that it could take as long as several months to develop vaccines to deal with a specific strain of the virus, the AP reported.

-----

Study Examines Possible Link Between Gluten/Dairy Products and Autism

A study to investigate whether gluten or dairy products contribute to autistic behavior is being conducted by researchers at the University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston.

The double-blind clinical study will include 38 autistic children, ages 3 to 9. All of them will be taken off gluten (a protein in wheat) and dairy products before the start of the four-week study. When the study begins, half the children will be given gluten/milk powder and half will be given a placebo powder, United Press International reported.

Some parents of autistic children believe casomorphin (a peptide in milk) and gliadomorphin (a peptide in gluten) affect their children's behavior.

"There's a lot of misinformation, so that's why this study is so important. Hundreds and hundreds of parents think [changing diet] works but we need serious evidence," lead investigator Dr. Fernando Navarro said in a news release cited by UPI.

-----

Fertility Treatments Offer Little Benefit For Some Couples

The infertility drug clomifene citrate and artificial insemination do little to help certain couples who can't have children naturally, according to Scottish researchers.

Their study included 580 couples who had no obvious reasons for their inability to conceive. The couples were divided into three groups and received either the drug, artificial insemination, or no treatment. There was little difference between the three groups in the numbers of women who had babies, the Associated Press reported.

Women in the clomifene citrate group had 26 babies, compared to 32 babies in the no-treatment group and 43 babies in the artificial insemination group. The findings appear in the British Medical Journal.

"These treatments are a leap of faith," said lead author Dr. Siladitya Bhattacharya, a professor of reproductive medicine at the University of Aberdeen, the AP reported. "None of the treatments studied had any significant benefit over no treatment at all."

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Circumcision May Reduce Risk of HIV Infection by 65 Percent

Circumcision may offer men greater protection against HIV than previously thought, according to a study that included 2,784 Kenyan men who were uncircumcised and HIV-free when they enrolled in the trial. HIV is the virus that causes AIDS.

Half of the men were circumcised at the start of the study. After two years, circumcised men were 60 percent less likely to contract HIV than uncircumcised men, Agence France-Presse reported.

The protective benefit was deemed so great that, after two years, the uncircumcised men were offered circumcision.

"The 60 percent protective effect against HIV acquisition ... over the first 24 months of the study, we now find to be sustained and possibly strengthened to approximately 65 percent over three and half years of follow-up," said study author Robert Bailey, of the University of Illinois at Chicago, AFP reported.

The findings were presented Thursday at the International AIDS Conference in Mexico City.

Health Tips for August 10

Health Tip: Why am I Constipated?

Constipation often is defined as producing fewer than three bowel movements in a week. Other symptoms may include producing small, hard stools; and significant straining during bowel movements.

The University of Michigan Health System lists these common causes of constipation:

* Insufficient fiber in the diet.
* Dehydration.
* Not getting enough exercise.
* Lifestyle factors, including taking certain medications, pregnancy, travel or aging.
* Not acting on the urge to produce a bowel movement.
* Having conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, a blockage of the colon or rectum, or certain systemic diseases.

Health Tip: Understanding Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia, the medical term for low blood sugar, is a common complication among people with diabetes.

The American Diabetes Association offers this list of warning signs and treatments for hypoglycemia:

* Symptoms may include dizziness, shakiness, sweating, headache, hunger, pale skin, sudden mood change, tingling around the mouth, and confusion.
* Treat hypoglycemia as soon as you notice symptoms. The condition can quickly become an emergency without treatment, if blood sugar drops dangerously low.
* Eat some sort of sugar, such as a few pieces of hard candy, 1/2 cup of fruit juice, or glucose tablets.
* Have a glucagon (a medication that quickly raises blood sugar) syringe on hand. In the event that you pass out, make sure friends and family know how to immediately use the shot. This is a medical emergency, and in addition to getting the shot, you should receive emergency care.

Health Headlines - August 9

Interaction Between Cholesterol, Heart Meds May Cause Muscle Damage

People who take the anti-cholesterol drugs Zocor (generic: simvastatin) or Vytorin along with a medication to control irregular heartbeat are at increased risk of severe muscle damage, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned Friday.

Zocor and Vytorin, which contains the active ingredient in Zocor, are statins, and muscle damage is a known but rare side effect of the drugs. The heart rhythm drug is called either Cordarone or Pacerone (generic: amiodarone). The danger rises among those who take more than 20 milligrams daily of the cholesterol drugs, according to the agency warning cited by the Associated Press.

The FDA first warned in 2002 about an interaction between the two types of medications, but that hasn't prevented the problem, the AP reported. Over the past six years, the agency has gathered 52 reports of serious muscle damage among people who took both medicines.

Most of those injuries required hospitalization, the wire service said.

The FDA warned that people who are taking the heart rhythm drug should switch to a different statin to control cholesterol.

-----

Pandemic Flu Biggest Threat to U.K.: Report

The most serious danger facing the U.K. over the next five years is pandemic flu, not terrorism, according to a national threat assessment released Friday by Britain's Cabinet Office.

The document's authors assessed the level of risk posed by a number of threats, including terrorism, extreme weather, climate change and pandemic flu, the Associated Press reported.

The document doesn't actually rank the threats in order of seriousness, but does say that pandemic flu is considered the most pressing concern, according to a Cabinet Office spokeswoman.

Previous government assessments concluded that a pandemic flu outbreak could kill as many as 750,000 people in Britain and that it could take as long as several months to develop vaccines to deal with a specific strain of the virus, the AP reported.

-----

Study Examines Possible Link Between Gluten/Dairy Products and Autism

A study to investigate whether gluten or dairy products contribute to autistic behavior is being conducted by researchers at the University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston.

The double-blind clinical study will include 38 autistic children, ages 3 to 9. All of them will be taken off gluten (a protein in wheat) and dairy products before the start of the four-week study. When the study begins, half the children will be given gluten/milk powder and half will be given a placebo powder, United Press International reported.

Some parents of autistic children believe casomorphin (a peptide in milk) and gliadomorphin (a peptide in gluten) affect their children's behavior.

"There's a lot of misinformation, so that's why this study is so important. Hundreds and hundreds of parents think [changing diet] works but we need serious evidence," lead investigator Dr. Fernando Navarro said in a news release cited by UPI.

-----

Fertility Treatments Offer Little Benefit For Some Couples

The infertility drug clomifene citrate and artificial insemination do little to help certain couples who can't have children naturally, according to Scottish researchers.

Their study included 580 couples who had no obvious reasons for their inability to conceive. The couples were divided into three groups and received either the drug, artificial insemination, or no treatment. There was little difference between the three groups in the numbers of women who had babies, the Associated Press reported.

Women in the clomifene citrate group had 26 babies, compared to 32 babies in the no-treatment group and 43 babies in the artificial insemination group. The findings appear in the British Medical Journal.

"These treatments are a leap of faith," said lead author Dr. Siladitya Bhattacharya, a professor of reproductive medicine at the University of Aberdeen, the AP reported. "None of the treatments studied had any significant benefit over no treatment at all."

-----

Circumcision May Reduce Risk of HIV Infection by 65 Percent

Circumcision may offer men greater protection against HIV than previously thought, according to a study that included 2,784 Kenyan men who were uncircumcised and HIV-free when they enrolled in the trial. HIV is the virus that causes AIDS.

Half of the men were circumcised at the start of the study. After two years, circumcised men were 60 percent less likely to contract HIV than uncircumcised men, Agence France-Presse reported.

The protective benefit was deemed so great that, after two years, the uncircumcised men were offered circumcision.

"The 60 percent protective effect against HIV acquisition ... over the first 24 months of the study, we now find to be sustained and possibly strengthened to approximately 65 percent over three and half years of follow-up," said study author Robert Bailey, of the University of Illinois at Chicago, AFP reported.

The findings were presented Thursday at the International AIDS Conference in Mexico City.

-----

Gum Disease May Increase Risk of Diabetes

Gum disease may be an independent risk factor for type 2 diabetes, according to a Columbia University study that included more than 9,000 people who didn't have diabetes at the start of the study.

The researchers examined the risk of developing diabetes over 20 years among participants with varying degrees of gum disease. They found that people with higher degrees of gum disease were nearly twice as likely to develop diabetes, United Press International reported.

That finding held true even after the researchers adjusted for other diabetes-related factors such as age, smoking, obesity, diet and high blood pressure. The study appears in the journal Diabetes Care.

"These data add a new twist to the association (between diabetes and gum disease) and suggest that periodontal disease may be there before diabetes," lead author Ryan T. Demmer said in a news release, UPI reported.

Health Tips for August 9

Health Tip: Prevent Constipation

It's not true that to be considered regular, you have to produce a bowel movement at least once daily, the American Academy of Family Physicians says.

The "normal" range varies widely -- between three times a day and three times a week, the academy says.

Here are its recommendations to help prevent constipation:

* When you need to have a bowel movement, try not to ignore it.
* Make time to have a regular bowel movement, such as after a meal.
* Get plenty of fiber in your diet, drink plenty of fluids every day, and get regular exercise.
* Avoid foods that are high in sugar and fat.
* Don't take laxatives too frequently. Overuse can actually damage your bowels and aggravate constipation.

Health Tip: Keep a Meal Schedule

Not only do many diabetics need to monitor what they eat, they need to pay attention to what time they eat it.

The American Diabetes Association says it's important to keep a regular schedule for meals. It offers the following suggestions:

* Schedule dinner get-togethers at your normal meal time.
* Choose locations and times when you won't have to wait too long to eat.
* When possible, make a reservation.
* Avoid dishes that take an unusually long time to prepare.
* If you know that your meal will be much later than usual, have your bedtime snack at your usual mealtime, then eat a later dinner. Talk to your doctor about how to adjust your insulin when you do this.