Health News

Health News for 03/31/11

March 31, 2011

Antibacterial Soap Additive Accumulates in Fish: Study

An antibacterial agent that's an ingredient in some bar soaps has a "strong" tendency to accumulate in the bodies of fish, finds a new study.

Health Tip: Caring for Eczema

Eczema is the umbrella term for a host of conditions that lead to a red, itchy skin rash.

Health Tip: Help Prevent Toddler Falls

The curious nature of young children pushes them to explore, but they may be unsteady on their feet, increasing the likelihood of falls.

Common Birth Defect May Be Linked to Migraine With Aura

There may be a link between certain types of migraines in children and a common congenital heart defect, a new study suggests.

Despite Radiation in Japan, Little Shift in Americans' Views on Nuke Power: Poll

Almost three weeks after a massive earthquake and tsunami crippled four nuclear reactors in Japan, American public opinion on the risks and benefits of nuclear power hasn't shifted much compared to three years earlier, a new Harris Interactive/HealthDay poll finds.

U.S. Reports Continuing Drop in Birth Rate

The number of births in the United States has declined since reaching an all-time high in 2007, according to a new federal government report.

Early Brain Therapy May Help Movement in Dystonia Patients

For people with the movement disorder dystonia, starting deep brain stimulation therapy early in the course of the disease provides better results, according to a new study.

For Young Kids With Pneumonia, Timing of Antibiotic Critical: Study

Correct and rapid antibiotic treatment is crucial for critically ill young children with bacterial pneumonia, says a new study.

Polluted Air Another Danger to U.S. Troops in Iraq

While the risks of gunfire and explosive devices to U.S. soldiers stationed in Iraq are obvious, new research suggests that high levels of air pollution in that country might pose a threat to their respiratory health.

When Pets Outlive Owners, 'Retirement Homes' Offer Refuge

Betty Kyle knew that after she passed away her daughters did not want to care for her menagerie of four Italian greyhounds, two donkeys, a goat and horse.

Moms With Tough Childhoods More Likely to Have Smaller Babies: Study

Women who suffered abuse in childhood are at increased risk of having low birth weight babies, a new study indicates.

Are Some Kids Overscheduled?

From sports practices to music lessons to community service, American kids always seem to have plenty to keep them busy. But whether they're actually too busy -- reaching a tipping point detrimental to their mental and physical health -- remains a topic of debate.

Levels of Radiation in Wash. State Milk No Threat to Health: FDA

In an update to its ongoing radiation monitoring following the Fukushima Daiichi reactor crisis in Japan, U.S. government officials announced late Wednesday that milk sampled March 25 in Washington state contained low levels of radiation not likely to cause harm to humans.

Health Highlights: March 31, 2011

Here are some of the latest health and medical news developments, compiled by the editors of HealthDay:

Clinical Trials Update: March 31, 2011

Here are the latest clinical trials, courtesy of ClinicalConnection.com:

Tetanus Still Diagnosed in U.S., Although It's Preventable

While a tetanus shot can shield Americans from the potentially fatal infection, sporadic cases do still occur among those who went unvaccinated, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported Thursday.

U.S. Cancer Rates Continue to Fall

The rate of new cancers in the United States has dropped by almost 1 percent a year and the rate of death from cancer has fallen 1.6 percent a year, a new report shows.

Prostate Cancer Screening Doesn't Cut Death Rates: Study

A 20-year study from Sweden suggests that screening for prostate cancer does not substantially reduce the risk of death from the disease.

FDA Panel Delays Action on Dyes Used in Foods

Foods that contain dyes used to enhance color don't need warning labels, a U.S. Food and Drug Administration advisory panel said Thursday.