Health News

Health News for 02/09/12

February 09, 2012

More People Need Training in Lifesaving Epinephrine Use, Advocates Say

When Jane Able's 4-year-old daughter, Ellie, was diagnosed with a severe peanut allergy, the New Albany, Ohio, mother got trained in using an epinephrine pen and never leaves home without it.

Health Tip: Troubled by a Toothache?

A toothache can be a real pain, but you can take steps to care for tooth discomfort.

Health Tip: Healthier Ways to Prepare Potatoes

Potatoes are a great source potassium, fiber and vitamin C, but many popular recipes also load on the calories.

Bug Bites May Have Caused Zebras' Stripes

Zebras evolved from all black to striped in order to repel insects that distract them from feeding, a new study contends.

4 New Genes Linked to Type 2 Diabetes

Four new genes associated with type 2 diabetes have been identified by researchers, who also pinpointed six independent diabetes-associated gene variants at previously known locations on chromosomes.

In Mice, Cancer Drug Shows Effect on Alzheimer's Symptoms

The cancer drug bexarotene quickly eliminates Alzheimer's disease-associated amyloid beta from the brain and reverses memory problems in mice, a new study finds.

Risk of Preterm Birth Rises for Hispanic Women the Longer They're in U.S.

The longer Hispanic women live in the United States, the more likely they are to have a preterm birth, a new study says.

New Therapy Might Help Relieve Painful Foot Condition

For people struggling with plantar fasciitis --- a painful and sometimes disabling foot condition -- a small, preliminary study suggests that a new type of therapy is more effective than standard cortisone injections in restoring mobility.

Heart Disease Risk Gene May Pass From Dads to Sons

An increased risk for coronary artery disease can be passed genetically from father to son on the male Y chromosome, a new study says.

Fear of Lawsuits Influences Care From Most Orthopedic Surgeons: Survey

A shocking new national survey suggests that nearly all orthopedic surgeons may order unnecessary tests, referrals or hospitalizations to avoid being sued, to the tune of $2 billion a year.

Heart Disease May Be Risk Factor for Prostate Cancer

Heart disease may be a risk factor for prostate cancer, a new study suggests.

Many Doctors May Be Less Than Honest With Their Patients

Many doctors may be less than honest with their patients, a new survey finds.

Stopping Bone Drug Cuts Risk of Second Thigh Fracture: Study

People who suffer a rare type of fracture of the thigh bone while taking bone-building drugs known as bisphosphonates can cut the risk of a second fracture by discontinuing the medication, a new study says.

More U.S. Doctors Are Urging Patients to Exercise: CDC

The number of American adults who received advice from their doctor to engage in regular exercise has increased steadily over the past decade, according to new research from U.S. health officials.

Chemo During Pregnancy Doesn't Seem to Harm Baby

A new study finds that the babies of women who had chemotherapy while pregnant aren't at higher risk for a variety of medical disorders, a sign that the treatment should be safe for the fetus in most instances.

Health Highlights: Feb. 9, 2012

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

More Patients Seek Plastic Surgery Advice From Facebook, Twitter

A growing number of Americans are getting advice and information about facial plastic surgery from social networking sites rather than friends, a new survey indicates.

C-Sections Might Put Preemies at Risk for Breathing Problems

Small, premature infants born by cesarean section are at 30 percent higher risk for serious breathing problems than those delivered vaginally, a new study finds.

Illicit Drugs Bought Off Internet May Be Poisons, Experts Warn

A case study of two men who were poisoned and turned blue after ingesting what they thought was a recreational drug that they had bought on the Internet highlights the dangers of such purchases, a new report claims.

Strutting the Catwalk in Red, Stars Promote 'The Heart Truth'

The star power gathered on the runway was impressive and so were the red-hot designer frocks, all on display at the 10th annual "The Heart Truth" Red Dress Collection fashion show, held in New York City on Wednesday night.

Pot Use Could Double Risk of Car Crash, Research Shows

Getting behind the wheel within three hours after using marijuana nearly doubles a driver's risk of having an accident, a large new research review finds.