Health News

Health News for 12/09/11

December 09, 2011

Health Tip: Don't Let Holiday Turkey Make You Sick

A case of food poisoning can ruin anyone's holidays. So take care with your turkey to reduce your risk of food-borne illness.

Health Tip: Should You Still Be Driving?

Problems that frequently affect older people -- such as changes in vision, arthritis or problems with memory -- should lead some seniors to conclude that they can no longer drive safely.

Broadway Strikes an Autism-Friendly Chord

For most Americans, attending the theater is just one more form of entertainment. But for Katie Sweeney and her family, a recent trip to Broadway was true cause for celebration.

Americans Encouraged to Get Flu Vaccine

Flu vaccination is easy to get and one of the best ways to protect your health during the flu season, but too few Americans take advantage of it, experts say.

Abuse May Alter Child's Brain Activity

Children who are abused or exposed to family violence have changes in brain activity similar to those seen in combat veterans, a new study finds.

For Older Runners, the Message Is: Keep Those Legs Pumping

For runners lacing up their jogging shoes at age 60 and beyond, there's encouraging news and not-so-encouraging news, according to new research.

Can Chewing Gum Boost Exam Scores?

You might want to break out the chewing gum before your next big test, a new study contends.

Psych Episode Near Childbirth May Presage Bipolar Disorder

New mothers who experience a psychiatric disorder within 30 days after giving birth have an increased risk of developing bipolar disorder, according to a new study.

Obese Patients May Benefit the Most From Surgery for Irregular Heartbeat

Overweight or obese individuals who undergo a procedure to treat an irregular heartbeat known as atrial fibrillation may see greater improvements in their quality of life after the treatment than their thinner counterparts.

Behavior Problems May Surface in Preemies by Preschool

Preschool children who were born just a few weeks too early are at increased risk for behavioral and emotional problems, new research suggests.

Burn-Casualty Soldiers at High Risk for Kidney Injury, Study Finds

Many American soldiers who suffer burns and wounds during combat develop acute kidney injury, an abrupt or rapid decline in kidney function that is potentially deadly.

Depression, Disability Can Follow ICU Care: Study

Depression and new physical problems are common among patients released from the intensive care unit after treatment for a potentially deadly condition called acute lung injury, a new study finds.

Starchy Foods May Boost Risk of Breast Cancer Recurrence

Increased consumption of carbohydrate-rich foods, especially starches, may boost the risk of breast cancer recurrence, new research finds.

Preemies Infected With More Dangerous Types of Bacteria: Study

Premature infants have fewer types of bacteria in their stomachs and intestines than full-term babies, new research shows.

FDA Advisers: Newer Forms of the 'Pill' Need Revised Warning Labels

U.S. health advisers recommended Thursday that several newer forms of oral contraceptives carry revised labels warning about an increased risk of potentially fatal blood clots.

British Study Suggests Mammograms Do More Harm Than Good

Women aged 40 and older who follow recommendations to have annual mammograms may do themselves more harm than good, British researchers report.

'Love Hormone' May Buffer Kids From Mom's Depression

Children born to mothers with postpartum depression are at increased risk for mental health problems, but a hormone called oxytocin may reduce the risk, according to a new study.

Health Highlights: Dec. 9, 2011

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

Recent E. Coli Outbreak Traced to Lettuce From One Farm: CDC

Romaine lettuce from one farm was the likely source of an E. coli outbreak that sickened 60 people in 10 states between Oct. 10 and Nov. 30, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.