Health News

Health News for 02/27/12

February 27, 2012

Health Tip: Protect Your Feet From Fungal Infection

Public locker rooms and showers may be breeding grounds for fungi, so it's important to protect your feet.

Health Tip: Fruit Juices and Kids

While sugary fruit juices may be a favorite for kids, too much can lead to obesity and tooth decay, the American Academy of Pediatrics says.

As Youth Baseball Season Nears, Experts Urge Injury Prevention

With winter turning to spring, youth baseball will soon be starting.

Exclusive Breast-Feeding Best for Baby: Experts

Breast-feeding exclusively is recommended for a baby's first six months of life, followed by continued breast-feeding along with food until a baby is at least 12 months old, the American Academy of Pediatrics reaffirms in a new policy statement.

Irregular Heartbeat May Predict Mental Decline in Some

A potentially dangerous heart rhythm problem called atrial fibrillation is a strong predictor of mental and physical decline in older people at risk for heart disease, new research suggests.

Rapid Flu Tests a Good First Step: Study

Rapid diagnostic influenza tests provide an accurate diagnosis, and their use during flu season could lead to earlier treatment for patients and help prevent the spread of the illness, two new studies suggest.

Hearing Loss Triples Risk of Falling: Study

Hearing loss is associated with an increased risk of falling, according to a new study.

Stem Cell Finding Could Expand Women's Lifetime Supply of Eggs

Researchers report that they've isolated stem cells from adult human ovaries that can mature into eggs that may be capable of fertilization.

'Active' Video Games May Not Boost Kids' Fitness: Study

Apparently there's no guarantee that your kids will mend their couch-potato ways if you give them a fitness video game.

Experimental Drug Shows Promise Against Type 2 Diabetes

An experimental drug improves patients' blood sugar control without increasing the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) in patients with type 2 diabetes, according to the results of a phase 2 clinical trial.

Poor Lung Function Linked to Heart Failure in Study

Reduced lung function and obstructive airway disorders such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) increase the risk of heart failure, a new study has found.

Disabled Adults More Apt to Be Victims of Violence: Study

Disabled adults are at higher risk of being victims of violence than adults who aren't disabled, new research finds.

Are the Rich Really Different From You and Me?

If a luxurious-looking car heads in your direction, you may want to look out. That's the message of a new observational study that contends that people who drive expensive cars are more likely to cut off pedestrians and ignore stop-sign etiquette.

Health Highlights: Feb. 27, 2012

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

Another Batch of Birth Control Pills Recalled for Faulty Packaging

A second company has issued a voluntary recall of birth control pills because of a packaging error that could lead to incorrect dosing and expose women to unintended pregnancies.

Stents No Better Than Medicine for Stable Heart Disease, Study Says

Many people with stable heart disease undergo an expensive artery-opening procedure when medication would work just as well, a new study suggests.

Pediatricians Renew Call for HPV Vaccine for Boys

The American Academy of Pediatrics on Monday renewed its call that all boys ages 11 and 12 receive the three-dose vaccine for the human papillomavirus (HPV).

'Chemo Brain' May Linger 20 Years After Breast Cancer Treatment

"Chemo brain," the name given to the mental fog and related memory problems that can occur during and after chemotherapy, may last for two decades after breast cancer treatment, new research suggests.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids May Protect the Aging Brain

Middle-aged and elderly adults who regularly eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids may slow the mental decline that leads to dementia, according to a new study.

Sleeping Pills Linked to Raised Risk of Death, Cancer: Study

Prescription sleeping pills may help you get some much needed rest at night, but using them routinely might also make it more likely that you will die or develop certain types of cancer, research suggests.