Health News

Health News for 08/17/11

August 17, 2011

Health Tip: Get the Right Fit for Athletic Shoes

Wearing properly-fitted athletic shoes can keep your feet comfy during a workout and help reduce the risk of injury.

Health Tip: Chew Sugarless Gum

Bacteria that contribute to dental plaque crave sugar. These bacteria produce plaque acids that aid in tooth decay by breaking down tooth enamel.

Sprained Ankles Straining ER Resources, Study Finds

Although not life-threatening, sprains and strains account for more than one-third of lower leg injuries treated in U.S. emergency departments, according to a new study.

Cost of Health Coverage in U.S. May Depend on Where You Live

The cost of health care is a hot-button issue for most Americans, and new research on that topic shows that health insurance premiums for individuals vary widely around the country.

Being Overweight May Take Years Off Seniors' Lives

Elderly people with extra body fat may not live as long as those who maintain a normal weight, according to a new study that contradicts previous research.

Illegal Online Pharmacies Prey on Consumers

Unsuspecting consumers attempting to buy prescription medications over the Internet may fall victim to one of the many illegal online pharmacies popping up on the web, according to a new report.

Inflammation From Rheumatoid Arthritis Tied to Heart Disease

People with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are at increased risk of death from heart disease and other cardiovascular events due to RA-related inflammation and other risk factors, a new study indicates.

Ultrasound of Neck Arteries May Help Gauge Stroke Risk

People who have narrowed carotid arteries in the neck and show no symptoms may be at risk for stroke and not know it, but a simple ultrasound test can identify the problem, a new study suggests.

Children With Kidney Disease Face Many Health Woes

Poor growth, heart problems and delays in puberty are among the problems experienced by children with mild to moderately impaired kidney function, new research says.

New Uses Found for Old Drugs

Many drugs already approved to combat certain illnesses may also be helpful in treating a slew of other seemingly unrelated health problems, a new study indicates.

Antipsychotics Best for Controlling Mania: Study

The manic episodes experienced by those with bipolar disorder are better controlled by antipsychotic drugs than mood stabilizers, a new, large study suggests.

Blood Antibody May Signal Start of Ovarian Cancer

Researchers have found an antibody that might someday be useful in identifying women who have a higher risk of ovarian cancer, or possibly diagnosing early ovarian cancer.

Most Doctors Will Face Malpractice Claims During Their Careers

About three-quarters of U.S. doctors will be sued for malpractice at some point in their careers, though the vast majority will not end up paying any claims, a new study suggests.

Health Highlights: Aug.17, 2011

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

Lessons From Tainted Peanut Butter Outbreak Apply Today

A look back at the tainted-peanut butter salmonella outbreak of 2008-2009 is giving scientists valuable lessons on how to minimize deadly onslaughts of foodborne illness in the future.

Cartoon Characters Prod Kids to Nag for Unhealthy Foods

If you're a parent, you've no doubt heard plaintive wails from your child as you traverse the treat-filled aisles of the grocery store.

Method to Detect When Patients Wake During Surgery Fails to Impress

A newer technology intended to alert doctors when patients are regaining consciousness while under anesthesia is no better than conventional monitoring systems in lowering the incidence of "anesthesia awareness," new research shows.

New Drug Approved for Advanced Skin Cancer

Zelboraf (vemurafenib) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat a certain form of metastatic (spreading) melanoma, or cases that cannot be removed surgically, the agency said Wednesday.

FDA Approves Novel Melanoma Drug

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Wednesday gave its approval to Zelboraf (vemurafenib), a first-of-its-kind drug for the treatment of an often lethal form of melanoma.