Top Diet and Exercise News
Get the latest diet and exercise news here.
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FDA Panel Recommends Approval of New Obesity Medication
An advisory panel to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is urging approval of the diet drug Contrave. Read Summary > -
Depression Makes Losing Weight Harder
People who have untreated depression may have a much harder time losing weight than their non-depressed or medicated friends, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Cutting Carbs May Ease Reflux
A reader of The People's Pharmacy says that cutting out bread, sugar, and refined starches such as bagels, pretzels, and crackers has cured her acid reflux symptoms. Read Summary > -
Fruit is Free Under New Weight Watchers System
The PointsPlus plan is aimed at helping dieters realize that not all low-calorie foods are equally nutritious. Read Summary > -
Extra Servings of Exercise Help Nibble Away at Holiday Calories
Treating yourself to small servings of extra food during the holiday season can cause you to pack on the pounds, but sneaking small extra servings of exercise may help, experts say. Read Summary > -
How Perfectionism Can Ruin Your Holidays
Looking forward to a perfect holiday? Think twice before you say yes, researchers warn. Read Summary > -
FDA Offers Food Safety Tips for the Holidays
In this article from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, experts offer advice on safe food handling for the holidays, including tips on cleaning your food preparation area, keeping your foods separated, and cooking your holiday meals and treats safely. Read Summary > -
5 Myths About Thanksgiving Dinner
Food science writer Harold McGee discusses five common myths about Thanksgiving dinner to help you make the most of the upcoming holiday meal. Read Summary > -
Adult Obesity Linked to ADHD in Childhood
The greater the number of ADHD symptoms a child has the more likely they may be to be overweight in adulthood. Read Summary > -
Most Lie to Their Boss About Stress Level: Study
One in five workers has taken time off of work for a stress-induced "mental health day," but were unwilling to admit it, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
U.S. Adults Eat 150 Pounds of Sugar Per Year
The average American eats about 150 pounds of sugar per year, one expert says, and many are addicted to the simple carb. Read Summary > -
'Biggest Loser' Type Workouts May Help Preserve Muscle Mass
The hard-core workouts done by contestants on the TV show 'The Biggest Loser' appears to help preserve their muscle mass, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
FDA Rejects Lorcaserin for Obesity
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says it will not approve the obesity drug lorcaserin for sale in the United States. Read Summary > -
Red Yeast Rice Supplement Ingredients Vary Widely
Different formulations of red yeast rice supplements--which many take to lower their cholesterol--are widely inconsistent in the amounts of active ingredients they contain, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Dark Chocolate-Cholesterol Claim Triggers Controversy
Results from a study suggest that an ingredient in dark chocolate may lower cholesterol in diabetics, but experts say other compounds in the chocolate may cancel out this benefit. Read Summary > -
Some Lipitor Tablets Recalled
Drugmaker Pfizer has recalled 191,000 bottles of its cholesterol-lowering drug Lipitor because of complaints of a noticeable odor in some tablets. Read Summary > -
Imbalanced Metabolism Linked to Asthma
Obesity and asthma are known to be linked, and now researchers say it may be the underlying cause of obesity--poor metabolism due to inactivity and bad eating--may be to blame. Read Summary > -
Overweight People Get Less Pleasure From Food: Study
Overweight and obese women appear to have at least one thing in common with drug addicts: their brains. Read Summary > -
Sleep Deprived? It May Sabotage Your Weight Loss Effort
Those who sleep less lose less fat and more muscle, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Most Americans Don't Meet Exercise Recommendations
According to a new study, only 5 percent of Americans do daily exercise. Read Summary > -
Supreme Court to Hear Cholesterol Drug Case
The U.S. Supreme Court has decided to hear the case of people who say they were harmed by the cholesterol drug Baycol (cerivastatin), which was pulled off the market in 2001. Read Summary > -
Unhealthy Habits Equal Less Productivity at Work: Study
According to new research, people who engage in unhealthy habits such as smoking, not getting enough exercise, and eating a poor diet are less productive at work. Read Summary > -
Medical TV Dramas May Harm Your Mental Health: Study
Watching too many TV medical dramas may reduce your satisfaction with life, a small new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Soybean Oil May Provide Fish-Free Omega 3
Researchers say an enriched form of soybean oil may be a viable alternative to fish oil for helping people obtain heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Read Summary > -
Giving More People Statins Cost-Effective, Study Finds
U.S. researchers say giving cholesterol-lowering statins to more people would be a cost-effective way to help prevent heart attacks. Read Summary > -
FDA Considers Approval of Genetically Modified Salmon
If approved, this would be the first time a genetically altered animal was approved for people to eat. Read Summary > -
High Fructose Corn Syrup Aims for New Name
High fructose corn syrup's (HFCS) bad reputation is prompting the Corn Refiner's Association to ask that the name be changed to "corn sugar." Read Summary > -
Many Americans Don't Know They Are Overweight
According to a new poll from Harris Interactive and HealthDay, many people in the United States who are overweight or obese have inaccurate perceptions of their weight. Read Summary > -
Non-Stick Cookware, Waterproof Fabrics May Boost Cholesterol in Kids
Chemicals used in the manufacture of non-stick cookware and waterproof fabrics may be absorbed into children's blood and increase their levels of bad cholesterol, new research suggests. Read Summary > -
Statin Use Does Not Boost Cancer Risk: Review
A review of previous studies has found no evidence that cholesterol-lowering statins cause cancer, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Joint Replacements May Aid Weight Loss
In a study of 196 patients who had received a hip or knee replacement, researchers found that nearly 20 percent of these patients had significant weight loss and decreased body mass index after undergoing the joint-replacement procedure. Read Summary > -
Statins May Help Some with Normal Cholesterol: Study
Results from a new study suggest that cholesterol-lowering statins could protect people who have a so-called "intermediate risk" for heart disease. Read Summary > -
Drinking Water Before Meals Aids Weight Loss
Obese dieters who drank two glasses before breakfast, lunch, and dinner lost five pounds more than their dieting peers over the course of three months. Read Summary > -
Fish Oil Plus a Low-Fat, High-Carb Diet Improves Cholesterol: Study
Results from a new study suggest that adding fish oil to a diet high in complex carbohydrates and low in saturated fats may help people who have metabolic syndrome better reduce the risks associated with this condition. Read Summary > -
Back-to-School Advice: Use the 5-2-1-0 Rule
A back-to-school schedule change paired with autumn weather can wreck havoc on a child's immune system, experts say. Read Summary > -
Take a Statin with Your Burger, Scientists Say
British scientists say fast food restaurants should hand out a free cholesterol-lowering statin to their customers to offset the heart risks of eating fatty foods such as hamburgers, fries, and milkshakes. Read Summary > -
Some Statin Users Don't Need Good Cholesterol Boost: Study
People with extremely low levels of bad cholesterol due to taking statins don't appear to benefit from increased levels of good cholesterol, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Weight Loss Surgery May Cut Diabetes Medication Use
Overweight Type 2 diabetics who have weight-loss surgery may be able to reduce or completely stop their diabetes medications, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Low-Carb Diets May Help the Heart: Study
One of the longest-running trials to pit Atkins-style low-carbohydrate diets against low-fat diets found that low-carb may be the most heart-friendly. Read Summary > -
Many U.S. Dietary Supplements Contaminated: Report
According to a new report from Consumer Reports, many popular dietary supplements contain ingredients that can cause cancer, liver or kidney damage, or heart problems. Read Summary > -
Link Between Depression, Cholesterol Different for Men and Women
A new study in the journal Biological Psychology has found that gender-specific regulation of cholesterol levels in the elderly may help prevent depression in these patients. Read Summary > -
Elevated Cholesterol in Youth Increases Heart Risks Later
Researchers say young people who have even mild high cholesterol have a greater risk of developing calcium deposits later in life, a development that can trigger hardening of the arteries and heart disease. Read Summary > -
Genome Study Pinpoints Genes That Control Cholesterol
New research published in the journal Nature details how scientists have identified nearly 100 genes in the human genome that may regulate cholesterol levels and the risk of coronary artery disease. Read Summary > -
Menstrual Cycle May Affect Cholesterol Levels
According to a new study, women's cholesterol levels can fluctuate throughout their menstrual cycle because of changes in their levels of estrogen. Read Summary > -
Painkillers, Statins May Distort Prostate Cancer Test Results
Men who regularly take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to control pain or statins to treat high cholesterol may not get accurate results on tests that screen for prostate cancer, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
The Best Exercises for Reflux Sufferers
Losing weight through diet and exercise may top the list when it comes to relieving acid reflux, but some exercise may harm more than it helps, experts say. Read Summary > -
Study Suggests Obesity Med Lorcaserin is Safe, Effective
A two-year study of more than 3,000 obese people suggests that the obesity medication lorcaserin safely aids weight loss. Read Summary > -
Chili Pepper Ingredient May Fight Fat
The ingredient that puts the "pep" in hot peppers may also cause weight loss, South Korean researchers say. Read Summary > -
New Obesity Compound Shows Promise in Animals
A compound that works similarly to the obesity drug Acomplia helped mice lower their body weight, triglycerides, and blood sugar in a recent study. Read Summary > -
Genes, Mood Disorders Link Depression and Obesity
A new study of twins has found that chronic pain and obesity are linked with both mood disorders and family history. Read Summary > -
Scientists Heal Damaged Arteries in Pigs
Researchers hope this work can one day be used to help people who have the artery-clogging condition atherosclerosis. Read Summary > -
Big Fast Food Chains Have Cut Trans Fats: Study
Scientists at the University of Minnesota's School of Public Health have found that major American fast food chains have significantly reduced their use of trans fats in their cooking oils. Read Summary > -
Cholesterol Screening Rates Too Low in Young Adults: CDC
Researchers at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say only about 50 percent of American young adults have their cholesterol screened, even though about 25 percent of them have increased levels of bad cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Cold Cereal Beats Hot Breakfast: Study
A large study of children has found that those who eat cold cereal for breakfast have healthier diets than kids who either skip breakfast or eat other foods for this morning meal. Read Summary > -
Drugmaker Recalls Some Coumadin Tablets
Bristol-Myers Squibb has initiated a voluntary recall of three lots of physician sample blister packs of Coumadin® 1 mg tablets and five lots, of Coumadin 1 mg tablet hospital unit dose (HUD) blister packs. Read Summary > -
FDA May Approve Obesity Drug Qnexa, With Some Concerns
Documents released by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggest that the obesity drug Qnexa will be approved, but there are some concerns about side effects. Read Summary > -
Tai Chi and Qigong Helps Mental, Physical Health: Study
A review of previous research has found Tai Chi and Qigong exercise routines can offer a number of significant mental and physical health benefits. Read Summary > -
Obesity Drug Plus Counseling Boosts Weight Loss: Study
A new study suggests that the experimental obesity medication Contrave, paired with counseling, appears to help people lose weight more quickly than behavioral therapy alone. Read Summary > -
All Children Should Have Cholesterol Screened: Study
According to a new study published in the journal Pediatrics, thousands of children who could benefit from cholesterol-lowering medications are not getting these treatments because current screening guidelines exclude many kids. Read Summary > -
Childhood Acid Reflux Leads to Adult-Size Problems
Experts say that overweight kids as young as six years old also show signs of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Read Summary > -
The Most Fattening Foods in the 50 States
Experts pick each of the 50 states "worst offenders" in terms of artery-clogging foods, including Alaska's Eskimo Ice Cream and Wisconsin's deep-fried cheese curds. Read Summary > -
Neck Measurement May Beat BMI at Identifying Obesity
Neck measurements may be a better way to assess obesity than the traditional body mass index (BMI), some experts say. Read Summary > -
2 Ways to Lower Children's Cholesterol Without Meds
A new report from Consumer Reports Best Buy Drugs warns that parents should think carefully about the choice to put their children on statins because the drugs have not been extensively tested in kids. Read Summary > -
Study Finds Why Statins Can Cause Depression, Anxiety
Researchers say the results of a new study may explain why some people who take statins to lower their cholesterol experience feelings of anxiety and depression. Read Summary > -
Chewable Lipitor Approved for Kids in Europe
Drugmaker Pfizer is reporting that a chewable form of its cholesterol drug Lipitor has been approved for children in the European Union. Read Summary > -
Food Dyes Linked to Hyperactivity, Allergies, Cancer: Study
According to the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), food dyes commonly used in foods from cereals and candy to fruit drinks may cause hyperactivity, allergic reactions, and even cancer. Read Summary > -
Statins May Not Help Healthy Patients: Study
According to a new study, cholesterol-lowering statins such as Crestor, Lipitor, and Zocor do not appear to reduce the chances of death in people who are at risk for developing heart disease but don't already have the condition. Read Summary > -
Statins May Protect Against Prostate Cancer Recurrence
Duke University researchers say men who take cholesterol-lowering statins are one third less likely to experience recurrences of prostate cancer than men who don't take the meds. Read Summary > -
Airline Food May Be Unsafe: FDA
According to a new report, FDA inspectors found improper food storage practices, workers who practice poor hygiene, unclean equipment, and even roaches and mice and some kitchens that make meals for major airlines. Read Summary > -
Experimental Obesity Med May Ease Depression
In a recent study, an experimental obesity medication called Contrave was found to both lessen symptoms of depression and improve eating control in obese patients who suffer from major depression. Read Summary > -
Weight Worries Can Lead to Depression in Normal-Weight Teens
Normal-weight girls who worry about being overweight are more prone to depression than girls who actually are overweight, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
Women Gain Average 20 Pounds in 16 Years, But Walking, Biking May Help
If you want to prevent age-related weight gain, researchers say you may want to try taking a walk or hopping on a bike. Read Summary > -
Obese People Have Worse Sex Lives: Study
French researchers have found that obesity is linked to both reduced sexual activity and poorer sexual health. Read Summary > -
Great Britain to Sequence 10,000 Genomes to Give Clues to Diseases
Scientists in the United Kingdom plan to sequence the full genomes of about 4,000 people in that country in an effort to shed light on such diseases as autism, schizophrenia, and obesity. Read Summary > -
10 Risk Factors Cause 90 Percent of Strokes
New research published in the journal The Lancet has found that 10 risk factors--five of them related to lifestyle--are responsible for 90 percent of all the risk of stroke. Read Summary > -
When Do Medications Really Expire?
Pharmacist Joe Graedon talks about expiration dates on medications, and he gives advice on which drugs might still be safe to take after these dates have passed and which definitely aren't. Read Summary > -
Vitamin D, Calcium Supplements Safe for Women's Arteries
According to a new study published in the journal Menopause, moderate doses of calcium and vitamin D supplements don't raise women's coronary artery calcium levels. Read Summary > -
Some Obese People Not at Risk for Heart Disease, Diabetes: Study
Researchers say people who are 30 pounds or more overweight who do not have metabolic risk factors such as high cholesterol or hypertension do not have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease like the rest of the obese population. Read Summary > -
New Cholesterol Medication Available
According to its maker, Livalo is metabolized differently in the body than current cholesterol medications, thus reducing the potential for unfavorable interactions with other drugs. Read Summary > -
10 Minutes of Exercise Has Hour-Long Effects
Getting as little as 10 minutes of brisk exercise triggers metabolism changes that can last at least an hour, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Obese Have Worse Sexual Health, Despite Fewer Partners
Experts say low self esteem and concerns about body image may be responsible for the findings. Read Summary > -
Your Car's Interior May Be Making You Sick: Study
Eating in the car is a standard affair for many Americans, but it could be hazardous to your health, British experts say. Read Summary > -
SpaghettiOs, Marie Callender Frozen Chicken Dinners Recalled
Two popular foods are being recalled this week--SpaghettiOs with Meatballs because some meatballs may not have been adequately heated, and Marie Callender's cheesy chicken and rice frozen meals, for salmonella risk. Read Summary > -
Red Wine, Green Tea Slow Prostate Cancer Growth
Scientists have known for some time that polyphenols in red wine and green tea help inhibit prostate cancer growth, and a new study shows why. Read Summary > -
Dietary Guidelines Panel Asks Americans, Foodmakers For Input
An advisory panel putting together the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans is asking citizens and foodmakers to change. Read Summary > -
Coffee May Help Prevent Diabetes
Researchers don't know if it's the caffeine in coffee, or antioxidants that show the health benefit, but it may significantly reduce diabetes risk. Read Summary > -
White Rice Linked to Diabetes
Replacing white rice and white bread with brown rice and 100 percent whole-wheat bread may reduce the risk of diabetes by one third, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Diet, Smoking, Some Meds Linked to Vision Risks
Three studies have linked diet, smoking, and medications that cause sun sensitivity to vision health and the development of eye diseases. Read Summary > -
Higher Good Cholesterol Levels Tied to Lower Cancer Risk
An analysis of previous studies has found that higher blood levels of good (HDL) cholesterol are linked to a lower risk of cancer. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Treating Fatty Liver Disease With Herbs
A reader who has a fatty liver wants to know if taking the herb milk thistle could help lower his elevated liver enzymes. Read Summary > -
New Tool May ID Acid Reflux
A new scanning technique may help doctors determine the severity of acid reflux problems. Read Summary > -
When Mom Is Abused, Child's Obesity Risk May Rise
Children who are exposed to violence toward their mothers are twice as likely to be obese by age 5, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
FDA Warns Drugmaker for Not Reporting Side Effects
The FDA's 12-page warning letter cited reporting issues related to such medications as the cholesterol drug Lipitor, the seizure and pain medication Lyrica, and the erectile dysfunction medicine Viagra. Read Summary > -
Depression May Boost Belly Fat
Researchers speculate that the stress hormone cortisol--which is linked to both depression and abdominal fat--may explain the link between the mood disorder and belly fat. Read Summary > -
Dairy, Eggs May Help Protect the Heart: Study
Swedish researchers say that contrary to popular opinion, eating moderate amounts of eggs, milk, and cheese may actually be good for your heart. Read Summary > -
Lowering Bad Cholesterol Extends Life, Study Confirms
Scientists say they have proven definitely that lowering bad (LDL) cholesterol levels can extend people's lives. Read Summary > -
Brain Helps Regulate Cholesterol: Study
A new study counters previous assumptions that cholesterol levels are solely controlled by what people eat and by production of the substance in the liver. Read Summary > -
Being Paid to Lose Weight May Work
Paying people to lose weight may really work, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Why Summer May Be The Best Time to Lose Weight
Frustrated dieters who were planning to be in shape by summer may have better luck dieting in the summer instead, says Dr. Mehmet Oz. Read Summary > -
Lignan-Rich Diet May Cut Breast Cancer Risk
Lignans are found in plants such as berries, broccoli, kale, green tea, and flax and sesame seeds. Read Summary > -
Low Muscle Mass Ups Diabetes Risk
Low muscle mass is linked to the risk for Type 2 diabetes, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Half-Doses of Avandia, Metformin May Help Prevent Diabetes
Half-doses of the diabetes meds Avandia and metformin may help prevent pre-diabetes from turning into diabetes, Canadian researchers say. Read Summary > -
Obesity and Asthma Are Linked
A new study has confirmed the link between obesity and asthma. Read Summary > -
Milk From Grass-Fed Cows Is More Heart Healthy
Milk from cows who graze on grass appears to be more heart healthy than milk from cows fed on grain feedlots, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
People Can Become Immune to Caffeine Boost
If your morning cup of coffee has evolved into a morning pot of coffee, you may becoming "immune" to the caffeine jolt, experts say. Read Summary > -
Many Stroke Patients Go Without Statins: Study
Doctors at UCLA have found that more than 16 percent of stroke patients are still being discharged from the hospital without prescriptions for life-saving statin medications. Read Summary > -
Television Food Ads Promote an Unhealthy Diet
Results from a new study suggest that eating a standard 2000 calorie diet of the foods advertised on television would mean a person would consume large amounts of sugar and fat and very few fruits and vegetables. Read Summary > -
Study: Healthier Fats Taking Place of Transfats
Researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health say that a wide selection of products that have been reformulated to replace transfats have been revamped without adding other harmful fats to the foods. Read Summary > -
Chocolate May Cut Cholesterol--But Only for Some
According to an analysis of eight previous studies, chocolate can help lower cholesterol, but only if it is eaten in small amounts and only by some people. Read Summary > -
2010s List of Restaurant's Most Fattening Foods
Cream-based pastas, meaty pizzas, and stuffed pancakes top the list of the Center for Science in the Public Interest's annual "Xtreme Eating Awards." Read Summary > -
Reducing Niacin May Help Prevent Obesity
Reducing niacin in fortified foods such as breads and cereals may help reduce obesity, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Statin Use Linked to Kidney, Liver, Eye Problems
Scientists in the United Kingdom have found that people who take statins to lower their cholesterol have an increased risk of acute kidney failure, liver problems, and cataracts. Read Summary > -
Pistachios May Help Lower Cholesterol
According to a new study published in the Journal of Nutrition, eating pistachios may fight heart disease by helping to lower cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Alfalfa Sprouts Recalled for Salmonella Contamination
At least 22 people in 10 states have been sickened from eating raw alfalfa sprouts, leading to a nationwide recall of this product. Read Summary > -
Beer Belly Linked to Alzheimer's
Men and women who carry weight around their middle in an "apple shape" have a higher risk of Alzheimer's disease. Read Summary > -
Food Cravings May Be Bad For Your Mind, Too
Resisting food cravings can take up so much of your mind that you may have trouble concentrating on other things. Read Summary > -
Male, Female Fat Cells Differ
Your gender may help determine if you're apple shaped or pear shaped, scientists say. Read Summary > -
'Four-in-One' Heart Pill Begins Testing
The pill, known as the Red Heart Pill, contains low-dose aspirin, a cholesterol-lowering statin, and two blood pressure drugs. Read Summary > -
Scientists Find New Way to Raise Good Cholesterol in Mice
Two teams of scientists have found that a small piece of genetic material called microRNA appears to regulate the production of good (HDL) cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Eating Nuts Improves Cholesterol Levels
An analysis of previous studies has found that eating about a third of a cupful of nuts per day reduces people's levels of bad cholesterol and improves their blood fat profiles. Read Summary > -
High Cholesterol Boosts Cancer Risk
Portuguese researchers have found that having high cholesterol not only boosts people's risk of heart disease, but it also increases their risk for certain types of cancer. Read Summary > -
Overeating Prompts More Weight Gain in Diabetes-Prone People
People who have a family predisposition to Type 2 diabetes may be more likely to gain weight after overeating than those without a family diabetes link. Read Summary > -
Losing Weight Quickly May Help Keep it Off
Conventional wisdom has always stated that slow weight loss is healthier, but a new study of 262 middle-aged women showed just the opposite. Read Summary > -
Too Little Sleep Linked to Early Death
An article published in the journal Sleep suggests that getting fewer than six hours of sleep per night may increase your risk of dying prematurely. Read Summary > -
Statins Improve Hip Replacement Outcomes: Study
According to new research published in The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, cholesterol-lowering statins may decrease complications in people who have total hip replacement surgery. Read Summary > -
Enzyme Boosts Heart Risks as Much as High Cholesterol, Blood Pressure
Scientists say high levels of an enzyme known as lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 increases a person's risk of developing heart disease as much as having high blood pressure or high cholesterol. Read Summary > -
8 Ways to Stave Off Heart Disease
Experts at the Mayo Clinic list eight ways you can use diet to help prevent heart disease, including choosing low-fat proteins, limiting unhealthy fats and cholesterol, and including more fruit and vegetables in your diet. Read Summary > -
Vitamin E May Treat Fatty Liver Disease
People who have non-alcoholic fatty liver disease may benefit from vitamin E supplements, research suggests. Read Summary > -
Five Minutes of 'Green Time' May Improve Mood, Self-Esteem
Want better mental health? Experts say just five minutes a day in the great, green outdoors may do the trick. Read Summary > -
Many Falsely Believe "Organic" Equals Fewer Calories
Organic foods may not have many of the chemicals found in other foods, but they still have plenty of calories, experts say. Read Summary > -
Obese Children More Likely to be Bullied
According to a new study, children who are overweight face a 63 percent higher risk of being the target of a bully than children who are normal weight. Read Summary > -
Lack of Exercise, Excess Weight Linked to Fibromyalgia
Researchers have found that women who are overweight or obese have a higher risk of developing the chronic pain condition fibromyalgia, and this risk is even greater if they also live a sedentary lifestyle. Read Summary > -
Weight Loss Realities Can Lead to Disappointment
Many former dieters say that weight loss is full of myths, including the idea that you'll develop confidence, and live happily ever after. Read Summary > -
Four Habits Lead to Early Death: Study
According to new research, a combination of smoking, lack of exercise, heavy alcohol consumption, and poor diet substantially increases the risk of premature death. Read Summary > -
Grapes Could Reduce Diabetes, Heart Risks
Wine has been lauded for its potential health properties, but new research suggests that the common grape may be equally as beneficial. Read Summary > -
Four Habits That Could Shave 12 Years Off Your Life
British scientists say that four common habits may make the difference between living into your 80s and dying in your 60s, or before. Read Summary > -
Machine Pulls Out Bad Cholesterol
A device called the Liposorber is being used to remove bad cholesterol from the blood of people with extremely high levels of cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Cholesterol Genes Linked to Age-Related Eye Disorder
Scientists have identified three genes that are linked to the eye problem known as age-related macular degeneration, and two of these genes are also tied to cholesterol pathways. Read Summary > -
Weight Gain, Smoking May Double Prostate Cancer Death Risk
Men who gain weight or who smoke after a prostatectomy double their risk of prostate cancer recurrence and death, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Obesity Gene Raises Alzheimer's Risk
A gene linked to obesity also increases the carriers' risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
Stress Linked to Diabetes, Obesity
The stress of modern life may be contributing to the obesity and diabetes epidemics, new research has found. Read Summary > -
Q&A: To Boost Good Cholesterol, Try Exercise
A man in his 50s asks Dr. Paul Donohue how he can lower his bad cholesterol while boosting his good cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Statins Do Not Reduce Colon Cancer Risk: Study
New research suggests that cholesterol-lowering statins not only won't protect people from colon cancer, but the drugs may also increase people's risk of developing precancerous colon polyps. Read Summary > -
Atherosclerosis Common in Young Adults, Women: Study
According to a new study, peripheral artery disease is much more common in young adults and women in the United States than was previously thought. Read Summary > -
Olive Oil May be the Secret Behind Mediterranean Diet's Success
The oil appears to suppress genes that cause inflammation--a condition that can increase the risk for obesity, diabetes, Alzheimer's, and heart disease. Read Summary > -
Are School Lunches a National Security Threat?
Members of the committee say that the military readiness of the country in the year 2030 is "absolutely dependent" on reversing childhood obesity rates. Read Summary > -
Low-Calorie Foods Taste Worse Over Time: Study
The more people eat "diet" versions of high-calorie foods the less they like them, experts say. Read Summary > -
French Diet Focuses on Protein Only
A popular French diet that encourages participants to eat only protein some days is gaining popularity. Read Summary > -
Statins May Slow Progression of MS
Researchers have found that the cholesterol-lowering drugs known as statins may slow the progression of multiple sclerosis. Read Summary > -
Spring Cleaning Your Diet
Experts say the spring season's fresh produce selections offer a great opportunity to "spring clean" your diet. Read Summary > -
Low-Calorie Diets May Cause Weight Gain: Study
According to a new study, people who eat a low-calorie diet may have a harder time losing weight and keeping it off. Read Summary > -
Soy Doesn't Cut Cholesterol After Menopause: Study
Scientists say their finding supports the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's 2007 decision to re-evaluate allowing soy product makers to claim their products have heart benefits. Read Summary > -
One Egg Per Day Not Bad for Most People's Heart: Experts
Studies suggest that eating up to one egg per day does not increase heart risks in most people, though eggs have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease in people with diabetes. Read Summary > -
FDA Delays Decision on New Combo Cholesterol Drug
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has asked for more information from drugmakers AstraZeneca and Abbott Laboratories before it approves their drug Certriad to treat high cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Researchers Grow New Blood Vessels from Stem Cells
Scientists say these engineered blood vessels might someday replace the synthetic products used during such procedures as bypass surgery. Read Summary > -
Strict Criteria for Eating Disorders Leaves Many Undiagnosed
Researchers say the criteria used by psychiatrists to diagnose bulimia and anorexia nervosa may be too rigid, causing many people with serious cases of these eating disorders to go undiagnosed. Read Summary > -
Low-Calorie Diets Can Increase Stress
Cortisol--called the stress hormone--levels are higher in dieters bodies than in the body of people who are not dieting. Read Summary > -
Study Confirms Obesity Boosts Stroke Risk
A study of more than two million people has confirmed that being overweight increases a person's risk of having a stroke. Read Summary > -
Obese Men Pay More For Prostate Surgery
A study of 629 men found that the higher costs came from anesthesia services and other operating room measures. Read Summary > -
Why a Full-Fat Breakfast May Be Best
Researchers say the old addage to "eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince, and dinner like a pauper," may lead to weight loss and improved health. Read Summary > -
Low-Carb, High-Protein Diet May Be Best for Obese Teens
A 13-week study of severely obese teens found that those on the low-carb, high-protein diet lost almost 30 pounds, while those on a low-fat diet lost 16 pounds. Read Summary > -
Overweight? Why You Should Be Screened for Diabetes Early
According to the American Diabetes Association, screening for diabetes is cost effective when done starting at age 30, rather than waiting until age 45. Read Summary > -
Should Statins Be Used by People with Normal Cholesterol?
Experts weigh in on the controversy surrounding the use of cholesterol-lowering drugs by people who have healthy cholesterol levels. Read Summary > -
Fast Food Exposure May Make People Impatient
When researchers flashed a fast food marketing logo on a computer screen they found that study participants started reading faster, even if there was no advantage in doing so. Read Summary > -
Brazilian Diet Pills Contain Addictive Antidepressants, Sedatives: FDC
The so-called "natural" diet supplement known as Brazilian diet pills contains potentially addictive antidepressants, tranquilizers, and amphetamines, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration says. Read Summary > -
Weight Training Injuries Increasing: Study
Researchers have found that weight-training injuries in the United States have increased nearly 50 percent between 1990 and 2007. Read Summary > -
Heavy TV Viewing in Youth Means Heart Risks Later: Study
According to a new study, people who watch a lot of television in early adulthood are more likely to develop risk factors for heart disease in their mid-40s than people who watched less TV. Read Summary > -
Statins Don't Work Equally in Men and Women: Experts
Experts say that though there is an abundance of evidence that statins fight heart disease in men, there is not clear proof that these drugs benefit women the same way. Read Summary > -
Junk Food May Be as Addictive as Cocaine, Nicotine
Binging on high-calorie junk food appears to trigger an addiction response in the brain, much like cocaine or nicotine, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Exercising for One Hour Keeps Women Fit: Study
Experts say that while 30 minutes a day may be enough to reap many health benefits, one full hour is needed in order to prevent age-related weight gain. Read Summary > -
Increased Soda Consumption Boosts Heart Disease, Diabetes Risk
Scientists at the University of California, San Francisco have found that rising rates of sugared soda consumption have contributed to thousands of new cases of heart disease and diabetes in the last decade. Read Summary > -
Obesity May Shorten Life By 20 Years
Researchers say that children who are morbidly obese can grow up to be anything they want, but they cannot grow up to be healthy. Read Summary > -
Vitamin D Fends Off Asthma, Flu
A study of Japanese students who took Vitamin D during the winter and early spring found that they suffered fewer cases of seasonal flu and asthma attacks. Read Summary > -
Workplace Wellness Programs Lower Weight, Heart Risks: Study
New research suggests that workplace wellness programs that focus on diet and exercise help employees lose weight and reduce their heart disease risk. Read Summary > -
Doctor-Pharmacist Teamwork Unlikely to Improve Cholesterol
Teamwork between a doctor and pharmacist to help patients with high cholesterol lower their lipid levels has little effect, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Low-Fat Diet Little Help for Cholesterol: Study
According to a new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, eating a low-fat diet does little to lower cholesterol, but it is still a good choice for helping people lose weight. Read Summary > -
US Army Overhauls Fitness Training
For the first time in 30 years, the US Army is overhauling the way it trains soldiers. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Fish Oil Better Than Flaxseed for Lowering Cholesterol
Though both contain omega-3 fatty acids, the form of this substance in flaxseed is harder for the body to process. Read Summary > -
Fat is the 'Sixth Taste:' Study
Australian researchers have found that people who are sensitive to the taste of fat are less likely to eat it and less likely to be overweight. The Read Summary > -
FDA Issues Warning About Zocor
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning about the popular cholesterol drug Zocor (simvastatin), saying that people who take the highest doses of the drug may be at increased risk for muscle injuries. Read Summary > -
Soy Does Not Fight Fat After Menopause, Study Finds
According to a new study, the estrogen-like compounds called isoflavones found in soy do not help limit the accumulation of body fat in women who have gone through menopause. Read Summary > -
Calcium, Vitamin D May Not Lower Cholesterol: Study
According to researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York, taking calcium and vitamin D supplements does not help people lower their cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Intense Cholesterol, Blood Pressure Therapy No Help to Type 2 Diabetics: Study
Results from a new U.S. government-sponsored study show that aggressive cholesterol and blood pressure treatments do not reduce the risk of cardiac events in people with Type 2 diabetes. Read Summary > -
Questions Raised About Peripheral Artery Disease Test
Results from a new Scottish study have raised questions about the diagnosis and treatment of peripheral artery disease. Read Summary > -
New Hope for Severe Inherited High Cholesterol
People who have the rare genetic condition known as homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia may be helped by the new drug mipomersen, new research suggests. Read Summary > -
Doctors Don't Do Enough to Cut Cholesterol: Study
Researchers say only half of patients who are at high risk for heart disease are given the right cholesterol-cutting target levels by their doctors, and millions of people may be suffering unnecessary heart attacks and strokes as a result of their doctor's incorrect advice. Read Summary > -
High-Intensity Training Equal to Endurance Exercise
Experts say a lack of time is no excuse for being sedentary, because high-intensity interval training (HIT) can deliver the same benefits as long-term endurance training in far less time. Read Summary > -
Statin Alternative Shows Promise in New Study
A cholesterol-lowering drug made from laboratory-engineered thyroid hormone has done well in a new, small study. Read Summary > -
Lawsuit Claims Some Fish Oil Products Contain PCBs
A lawsuit brought by environmentalists in California alleges that a number of popular fish oil products contain illegal and unsafe levels of PCBs. Read Summary > -
Chocolate May Reduce Stroke Risk
Harvard researchers have found that eating two squares of dark chocolate per day may reduce people's risk of suffering a hemorrhagic stroke by more than 50 percent. Read Summary > -
Cheek Swab Test May Help You Choose a Diet
Stanford University researchers have developed a DNA test from a cheek swab sample that may let people know which diet will help them lose the most weight. Read Summary > -
Expert: Cholesterol Screening Should Begin at 20
A Texas cardiologist says that cholesterol screening should begin at age 20, since hardening of the arteries can begin early in life. Read Summary > -
Low-Carb, Low-Fat, and Mediterranean Diets Unclog Arteries: Study
Results from a new Israeli study have found that low-fat, low-carbohydrate, and Mediterranean diets can help unclog arteries and reverse the thickening of artery walls that can lead to heart attacks and strokes. Read Summary > -
President Obama Has High Cholesterol
President Barack Obama has been given a clean bill of health by his doctor, but he has also been told that he has high cholesterol and should quit smoking. Read Summary > -
Two Pringles Chip Flavors Recalled
Both the Cheeseburger and Taco Night varieties of the chips are affected by the recall, Proctor & Gamble officials report. Read Summary > -
Wine May Fight Weight Gain in Women
One drink a day may help women avoid weight gain, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
Salmonella Scare Prompts Wide Recall of Dips, Soups, Packaged Foods
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a wide recall of packaged foods after finding traces of salmonella in a common ingredient. Read Summary > -
FDA Warns 17 Companies Over Food Health Claims
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings to 17 companies over health claims the companies have made about their foods on packages and Web sites. Read Summary > -
Diet Helps Older Adults Cut Cholesterol: Study
Older adults can cut their cholesterol levels by reducing their fat intake, researchers say, even if these adults are already taking statins to get their cholesterol under control. Read Summary > -
Statins May Help Prostate Cancer Patients
Duke University Medical Center scientists have found that cholesterol-lowering statins may slow the progression of prostate cancer by significantly reducing prostate tumor inflammation. Read Summary > -
Statins Slightly Boost Diabetes Risk: Study
A new study published in the Lancet medical journal has found that people who take statins to lower their cholesterol have a nine percent greater risk of developing diabetes than those who don't take the meds. Read Summary > -
Indulgent Grandparents Increase Kids' Obesity Risk
Being spoiled by grandparents is a tradition for many kids, but for those who live with a grandparent may be getting more than they bargained for. Read Summary > -
How to Train Like an Olympian
You may not be an Olympic athlete, but experts say there are lessons you can learn from these athletes to improve your own performance. Read Summary > -
Boredom May Increase Death Risk
A new study has found that the phrase "bored to death" may be true for some people. Read Summary > -
First Lady Calls for Fight Against Childhood Obesity
The "Let's Move" campaign is aimed at what families, communities, and other parties can do to reduce childhood obesity within one generation. Read Summary > -
FDA Approves Crestor for Wider Use
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved AstraZeneca's cholesterol-lowering drug Crestor (rosuvastatin) for older adults who have healthy cholesterol levels but other heart risks. Read Summary > -
3 Family Habits May Slash Childhood Obesity Risk
Three traditional family habits may almost halve your child's risk of becoming obese, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Sugared Soda May Double Pancreatic Cancer Risk
A new study suggests that two sugared sodas a week may almost double a person's risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Read Summary > -
FDA May Require Logical Serving Sizes
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) may begin requiring manufacturers to fix food serving sizes so they reflect the way people actually eat. Read Summary > -
Making Healthy Super Bowl Snacks
Experts give 11 recipes to help you make a great collection of healthy Super Bowl snacks, including Lemon-Drop Chicken Wings, Beef and Beer Chili, Spinach-Artichoke Dip, and Fudgy Chocolate Brownies. Read Summary > -
What You Eat After Exercising Matters
Eating a low-carb meal after exercising appears to improve insulin resistance. Read Summary > -
More Exercise is Better, Study Finds
New research suggests more is better when it comes to exercising. Read Summary > -
Prostate Cancer Treatments Raise Heart Disease Risks: Study
Researchers are reporting that prostate cancer treatments that block the supply of male hormones raise cholesterol, increase the likelihood of obesity, and worsen blood sugar, all of which raise men's risk of heart attack. Read Summary > -
Low-Carb Diet Best for Lowering Blood Pressure: Study
Scientists have found that a low-carbohydrate diet may be the best choice for helping people lower their blood pressure. Read Summary > -
FDA Warns of Heart Risks of Diet Drug Meridia
Officials with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration are warning people who have a history of certain kinds of heart disease not to use the weight-loss drug Meridia because it can boost these patients' risk of heart attack and stroke. Read Summary > -
Omega-3 Fatty Acids May Slow Cell Aging
Scientists say omega-3 fatty acids appear to help reduce the rate that cells age, a finding that may explain one of the ways these acids help the heart. Read Summary > -
Statins May Treat Sickle Cell Disease
Results from a new study in mice suggest that cholesterol-lowering statins may reduce the risk of a common and dangerous infection in people who suffer from sickle cell disease. Read Summary > -
1 in 5 American Kids Has High Cholesterol: Study
A new report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has found that one in every five kids in the United States has either high levels of bad cholesterol, low levels of good cholesterol, or high levels triglycerides. Read Summary > -
Low-Carb Diets Beat Meds at Lowering Blood Pressure
A head-to-head study on low-carb diets and the weight-loss drug orlistat (Xenical, Alli) found that both led to weight loss, but the diet was significantly better at lowering patients' blood pressure. Read Summary > -
FDA Approves Victoza for Type 2 Diabetes
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Victoza for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes in patients who do not respond well to other treatments. Read Summary > -
Treat All Heart Risk Factors, Not Just Cholesterol: Study
Treating all the risk factors that contribute to heart attacks is more beneficial to patients than simply working to lower their cholesterol levels, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
Most Fast-Food Fries Cooked in Most Unhealthy Oil: Study
A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences has found that most french fries served in U.S. restaurants are fried in corn oil, which is considered to be the worst for human heart health. Read Summary > -
Mail-Order Pharmacies May Help People Stay on Meds
Researchers have found that using mail-order pharmacies may help people who have high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes stay on the medications their doctors prescribe to treat the conditions. Read Summary > -
Ordinary Activity May Trump "Real" Exercise
Experts say doctors should encourage people to get ordinary exercises, such as walking up and down stairs, taking breaks from sedentary work, and bending and stretching, in addition to moderate exercise. Read Summary > -
Saturated Fat Not Linked to Heart Disease: Study
A meta-analysis of 21 studies on 347,747 healthy adults suggests that dietary saturated fat is not linked to cardiovascular disease or stroke. Read Summary > -
Napping May Affect Diabetes Risk
Older adults who nap during the day or who don't get much sleep are at increased risk for diabetes, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
Most Are Unhappy with Eating Habits of Others
Most Americans are satisfied with their own eating habits, but 73 percent of them are critical of others' eating habits. Read Summary > -
FDA Warns of Fake Versions of Alli
Experts say the outer packaging for the counterfeit version is missing a "Lot" code, and the counterfeit product also has an expiration date that includes the month, day and year, rather than just the month and year imprinted on the real Alli. Read Summary > -
Study Adds to Evidence That Statins Cut Stroke Risk
A large analysis of previous studies has confirmed that taking statins reduces people's risk of stroke. Read Summary > -
Unhealthy Diet Tied to Mood Disorders
A traditional "Western" style diet, full of sugar, white flour, and fast food may contribute to mental health problems in women. Read Summary > -
Long-Term Statin Use Best for Cutting Heart-Related Deaths: Study
British researchers say a 50 percent increase in the number of people who use cholesterol-lowering statins could prevent twice the number of deaths from strokes and heart attacks. Read Summary > -
Calorie Count on Foods is Often Wrong
Researchers say the calorie information on reduced-calorie pre-packaged food is often wrong, which could be a problem for those trying to lose weight. Read Summary > -
Use of Psychiatric Drug Combos on the Rise
Researchers say a psychotherapy program is more effective than traditional health classes in helping teenage girls who are at risk for obesity from becoming more excessively overweight. Read Summary > -
ADHD Linked to Overweight, Obese Mothers
A Swedish study suggests that children are twice as likely to show signs of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) if their mothers were overweight or obese when they became pregnant. Read Summary > -
Statins Don't Cut Colorectal Cancer Risk: Study
A new study of more than 400,000 people has found that taking cholesterol-lowering statins does not curb the user's risk of developing colorectal cancer. Read Summary > -
Top Ten Fitness Trends of 2010
Convenience, affordability, and technology are high priorities for exercisers in 2010, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
A Guide to Multivitamins
Living a fast-paced lifestyle makes multivitamins a good way to add missing nutrients to your diet, but with so many vitamin options, how can you make the best choice? Read Summary > -
Weight Loss Surgery May Soon Be More Widely Used
Doctors and other health experts are divided on whether the benefits of weight-loss surgery outweigh the risks when it comes to patients who are only moderately overweight. Read Summary > -
Red Yeast Rice May Be Alternative to Statins: Study
Results from a new small study suggest that red yeast rice supplements may offer an alternative to people who use statins to lower their cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Vytorin, Zetia Cancer Link 'Unlikely,' FDA Says
Officials with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration say it is "unlikely" that the cholesterol drugs Vytorin and Zetia increase the risk of developing or dying from cancer. Read Summary > -
High Blood Levels of Lipoprotein Cause Heart Disease: Study
Genetic researchers at the University of Oxford have discovered that high blood levels of lipoprotein(a), a fat-carrying molecule, can lead to the development of heart disease. Read Summary > -
Diabetics Get Less Benefit from Good Cholesterol: Study
According to new research, diabetes lowers the heart-protecting benefits of HDL (good) cholesterol, but the vitamin niacin may help. Read Summary > -
Myrrh May Lower Bad Cholesterol
Researchers in Saudi Arabia have found that myrrh--best known as one of the gifts of Magi--may help lower bad cholesterol. Read Summary > -
FDA Rebukes Nestle for Labeling of Boost, Juicy Juice
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has sent warning letters to foodmaker Nestle for misleading labeling on its Boost and Juicy Juice drink lines, saying the company is claiming the products have unapproved medicinal uses. Read Summary > -
How to Stick to New Year's Resolutions
Seven tips for making lasting change in 2010. Read Summary > -
Self-Help Equal to Therapy for Binge Eaters
Binge-eaters who undergo therapy make strides in the short-term, but over time people who use self-help techniques make just as much progress. Read Summary > -
Food Aromas May Fight Obesity
The aromas of food that are released when you chew appear to trigger feelings of fullness, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
Omega-3s May Boost Blood Fats: Study
Many people use omega-3 fatty acids to help their heart health, but a new study has found that the first effects of these fats are a short-term boost in blood fats and rise in the particles that cause clots. Read Summary > -
Inactivity, Obesity Keep Heart Health Rates Low
Doctors are better at treating heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems, but experts say too many Americans are ignoring the basic rules for preventing these problems such as maintaining a healthy weight and getting enough exercise. Read Summary > -
Surgery Not Needed for Neck-Artery Plaque Buildup: Study
Medical therapy such as aggressive control of blood pressure and cholesterol is more helpful to people who have symptomless buildup of plaque in their neck arteries than surgery, new research suggests. Read Summary > -
A Collection of Healthy Holiday Recipes
Experts at the Food Network have compiled their favorite healthy recipes for the holiday season. Read Summary > -
Alzheimer's Linked to Appetite Hormone
A hormone that helps signal fullness after eating appears to be linked to the development of Alzheimer's, researchers say. Read Summary > -
FDA Panel Approves Wider Use of Crestor
A panel that advises the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recommended that the cholesterol-lowering drug Crestor be prescribed to patients with healthy cholesterol levels, saying the drug can help prevent heart attack, stroke, and death. Read Summary > -
Menopause May Raise Cholesterol
Women who go through menopause experience sharp increases in their levels of bad (LDL) cholesterol, new research has found, though menopause does not cause dramatic changes in other cardiovascular disease risk factors. Read Summary > -
High-Fat, Low-Carb Diets Could Up Heart Risks
The heart risks caused by low-carb, high-fat diets may outweigh the benefits of weight loss, Northern Irish researchers say. Read Summary > -
Normal Cholesterol May Not Mean a Healthy Heart: Study
Experts say people with normal levels of bad cholesterol should still be screened for elevated levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation that's known to contribute to heart disease. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Can Cholesterol Be Too Low?
A reader who is concerned that the statin Lipitor has lowered her son's cholesterol too much asks Dr. Peter Gott for advice about his cholesterol numbers. Read Summary > -
90 Percent of Gum Disease Sufferers at Risk of Diabetes
The study on almost 3,000 adults also found that patients with periodontal disease were also more likely to have high blood pressure or a parent or sibling with diabetes when compared to dental patients who didn't have gum disease. Read Summary > -
Coffee, Tea May Ward Off Diabetes
A review of 18 studies has found that drinking three to four cups of coffee or tea may cut your risk of diabetes by 25 percent. Read Summary > -
Cutting Down on TV Prompts Weight Loss
Turning off the tube can lead to weight loss, even if people aren't dieting, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Heavy Children Prone to Back Pain, Spinal Problems
Researchers have found that overweight and obese children and teens are more likely to experience severe back pain, abnormalities in their lower spine, and spinal disc problems than their normal weight counterparts. Read Summary > -
Feast and Famine Diet May Reward Binging
A fad diet that urges followers to fast on some days and feast on others may reward binging behaviors, some experts say. Read Summary > -
Slim Fast Recalls All Shakes, Diet Drinks
Slim Fast has recalled every single one of its liquid products, including shakes and diet drinks, after finding the products may be contaminated with a bacteria that can cause moderate food poisoning. Read Summary > -
U.S. high cholesterol rates down 30 percent: CDC
A new report from researchers at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has found that the number of people who have high levels of bad cholesterol in the United States dropped by nearly 30 percent between 1999 and 2006. Read Summary > -
Selenium supplements may boost cholesterol
British scientists have found that taking selenium supplements may increase people's cholesterol levels and boost their risk of developing heart disease. Read Summary > -
High cholesterol boosts heart failure risk: study
According to a new study, high cholesterol levels can significantly increase a person's risk of heart failure. Read Summary > -
10 things you may not know about cholesterol
A health reporter discusses 10 surprising facts about cholesterol, including the fact that cholesterol can show on the skin. Read Summary > -
Cost of treating diabetes expected to triple
Experts say in the next 25 years the number of diabetes patients is expected to double, and the cost of treating the disease is expected to triple. Read Summary > -
Movie popcorn as fatty as three hamburgers
Popcorn has a reputation for being a fiber-filled, healthy snack, but that’s not a bit true if you’re eating it at a movie theater. Read Summary > -
Scientists developing new weapon to fight cholesterol
Scientists at UCLA have developed tiny particles that mimic the action of good cholesterol in the body by attaching to cholesterol before it can grow into harmful plaque deposits. Read Summary > -
Genetically modified soybean good source of omega-3
Scientists have engineered a soybean whose oil boosts the body's production of an important omega-3 fatty acid Read Summary > -
Cognitive ability, diet have a role in heart disease
According to a new study, seniors who eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables and have good cognitive abilities have less of a chance of dying from heart disease than those who eat a less healthful diet and who have poorer cognitive functions. Read Summary > -
Adding niacin does not help statin users: study
Seniors who have coronary artery disease and take statins receive no added benefits from adding the B vitamin niacin to their drug regimen, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Go healthy--not hungry--this Thanksgiving
A nutritionist gives tips on approaching holiday eating, including using snacks to keep from overindulging, bringing healthy dishes to gatherings, and substituting ingredients. Read Summary > -
Low-fat diet may improve mood: study
A recent study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine has found that though both a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet and a low-fat, high-carbohydrate diet can help people lose weight, only the low-fat diet can help people improve their moods. Read Summary > -
Cholesterol tests can be simplified: study
British researchers say people's good and total cholesterol levels can be tested without requiring patients to fast, and without measuring their levels of triglycerides. Read Summary > -
Statins may prevent gallstones
Results from a new study suggest that taking cholesterol-lowering statins may reduce the development of gallstones and the need for surgery to treat them. Read Summary > -
Questions raised about Zetia in new study
A recent clinical trial on the bad cholesterol-lowering drug Zetia was stopped early after scientists found that a combination of this drug and a statin was less effective at reducing cholesterol buildup in the arteries than a combo of a statin and Niaspan, a drug that raises good cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Low Vitamin D Tied to Estrogen Decline
Ill effects of vitamin D deficiency in men are amplified by lower levels of estrogen, but not by testosterone. Vitamin D is essential to good health, and can be obtained from fortified foods such as milk and cereals, and by exposure to sunlight. Previous studies showed that deficiencies in vitamin D and low levels of estrogen were independent risk factors for hardened and narrowed arteries and weakened bones. Read More > -
Gut bacteria may explain some cases of obesity
Scientists say that the convention wisdom of diet, exercise, and genes don't explain every case of obesity. Read Summary > -
Nintendo Wii may provide actual exercise: study
A new study has found that interactive video games, such as the Nintendo Wii, may be helping get Americans in shape. Read Summary > -
Obese teens more prone to MS: study
The study, published in the journal Neurology, found that girls who were obese at age 18 were twice as likely to develop MS later in life. Read Summary > -
FDA questions safety of caffeinated alcoholic drinks
Experts say being wide awake and drunk increases the risk for violent or other high-risk activities. Read Summary > -
What to expect for Medicare Part D open enrollment
An analysis by the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation has found that monthly premiums will rise an average 11 percent, though the premium changes vary widely by which plan seniors select. Read Summary > -
Yahoo, Google want more leeway for drug advertising
Drugmakers say the current FDA guidelines requiring both benefits and risks of drugs on ads hampers advertising on the Internet given the space constraints for ads on Web pages. Read Summary > -
Developmental Delays Linked to Nicotine Gene?
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Obese Teen Girls at Higher Risk for MS
A new study suggests teen girls with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more kilograms are more likely to develop multiple sclerosis (MS) as an adult. Read More > -
Healing Scar Tissue: Hope for Spinal Cord Injuries
Researchers have developed a new enzyme to break down dense scar tissue that builds up on the spinal cord after central nervous system damage. Read More > -
Lower Cholesterol, Lower Risk of Prostate Cancer
Concerns that low cholesterol leads to cancer may have caused unnecessary fear. A pair of studies now suggests lower cholesterol may actually reduce a man's risk of prostate cancer. Read More > -
Sleep Apnea Therapy Improves Golf Game
Sleep apnea sufferers may have some more motivation to wear their breathing machines at night … it could improve their golf game. Read More > -
Processed foods may boost depression risk
A diet heavy in processed foods increases a person's risk of suffering from depression, British researchers say. Read Summary > -
Obesity appears to alter heart structure
Researchers say obesity is a major risk factor for left atrial enlargement (LAE)--a heart structure problem that increases the risk of atrial fibrillation, stroke, and death. Read Summary > -
Low-fat diets may boost your mood
A year-long study suggests that while low-carb and low-fat dieters shed comparable amounts of weight, the low-fat dieters may be happier. Read Summary > -
Low cholesterol reduces men's prostate cancer risk: study
Results from two new studies suggest that men who have lower cholesterol levels also have a lower risk of developing prostate cancer. Read Summary > -
Chronic stress leads to poor eating habits: study
U.S. researchers asked 600 women about their eating habits and stress levels and found that those who were under chronic stress were more likely to eat high-fat foods. Read Summary > -
FDA rejects Lipitor/Zetia combo drug application
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has rejected an application for a new cholesterol pill that combines Lipitor and Zetia, saying the agency needs more information about the stability and manufacturing of the drug. Read Summary > -
Statins may make fatigue worse for heart failure patients
Cholesterol-lowering statins may increase the risk of shortness of breath and fatigue in people who suffer from heart failure, new research suggests. Read Summary > -
Statins may prevent flu deaths
Cholesterol-lowering drugs such as Zocor, Crestor, and Lipitor may help prevent people with severe flu from dying, new research suggests. Read Summary > -
Household chemicals linked to cholesterol levels
Boston University researchers have found that chemicals found in food packaging, textile coating, and paper may affect people's cholesterol levels. Read Summary > -
Ground beef recalled over E. coli illnesses
The company says that each package carries the number "EST. 492" on the label. Read Summary > -
Fatty liver may be the best indicator of obesity's effects
People who have a "beer belly," or who are apple-shaped may have more health problems than they know, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Exercise makes cigarettes less attractive to smokers: study
Researchers say exercise can help smokers resist the lure of tobacco and of smoking-related images. Read Summary > -
Alcohol may Encourage Cancer Progression
essential for numerous developmental processes -- may also be a cellular pathway by which alcohol-induced cancer cells aggressively metastasize. Read More > -
For Big Athletes, 'Fat and Fit' a Myth
Superior size and strength can mean championships, scholarships and million-dollar paydays for today's athletes. But a comparison of professional baseball players and football players reveals that the larger professional athletes -- specifically football linemen -- are at greatly increased risk of cardiometabolic syndrome. These findings come on the heels of media reports suggesting that professional football players are twice as likely to die before age 50 as professional baseball players. Read More > -
Cocoa in chocolate may help the heart
Spanish researchers have found that the cocoa in chocolate appears to be healthy for the heart. Read Summary > -
Where weight settles affects clot risk: study
Women who have big hips and men who have big waists have a greater risk of developing venous thromboembolism (VTE), a new study has found. Read Summary > -
Dangerous lung clots may not come from legs: study
New research is refuting the idea that dangerous blood clots in the lungs called pulmonary emboli originate from clots in the deep veins of the legs and other parts of the lower body. Read Summary > -
Crestor approved for kids with high cholesterol
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the cholesterol-lowering drug Crestor for kids with a genetic condition that causes high cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Diabetes drug may help obese people shed weight
In a recent study, researchers found that obese patients with pre-diabetes lost almost twice as much weight at the highest doses as patients taking orlistat. Read Summary > -
Some heartburn meds may lead to weight gain
According to a study published in the Journal of Gastroenterology, the long-term use of PPIs may be linked to weight gain. Read Summary > -
Healthcare system wastes as much as $800 billion each year: report
A new report from Thomson Reuters has found that the U.S. healthcare system wastes up to $800 billion every year, and that proposed healthcare reform measures could be paid for by eliminating these wasteful practices. Read Summary > -
Smart Choices food labeling halted after FDA warning
An industry-funded food labeling program known as Smart Choices has been suspended just days after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said it would investigate if the labels were misleading about foods' nutritional content. Read Summary > -
Excess Pregnancy Pounds Hard to Shed
Obese women who gain more weight than recommended during pregnancy are more likely to retain as much as 40 percent of that weight one year after they give birth, according to a Kaiser Permanente study. Read More > -
Smog boosts blood pressure in the obese
People who are obese appear to suffer significant increases in blood pressure when they are exposed to air pollution, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
Obesity affects young women's fertility: study
According to new research, women who are obese by age 18 are more likely to develop polycystic ovarian syndrome and become infertile than young women who maintain a normal weight. Read Summary > -
Drinking may help the heart--but with risks
Drinking alcohol has been found to have some positive effects on cardiovascular health, but experts say the health risks associated with drinking far outweigh the potential benefits. Read Summary > -
Statin muscle pain linked to gene mutation
Scientists at Duke University have found that people who take cholesterol-lowering statins and who have a common gene mutation are more likely to have muscle aches related to the drugs' use. Read Summary > -
Vitamin B doesn't help the heart: study
The results of a new study suggest that taking vitamin B supplements is unlikely to help prevent strokes and heart attacks in people who suffer from or have risk factors for heart disease. Read Summary > -
Could fish for dinner increase diabetes risk?
Eating a diet high in the healthy Omega 3s found in fresh fish may help guard against heart disease, but a new study suggests it may also raise the risk of diabetes. Read Summary > -
Mangosteen juice may lower inflammation
Mangosteen juice may lower inflammation that can lead to diabetes and heart disease, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Comfort food may get the boot during times of stress
Researchers in South Carolina say that stressful times actually appear to prompt people to eat different--and even healthier--foods. Read Summary > -
Researchers ID "exercise bulimia" eating disorder
Sufferers of the disorder don't purge after eating, but they do exercise compulsively and to the point of physical excess. Read Summary > -
Statin muscle pain linked to gene mutation
Scientists at Duke University have found that people who take cholesterol-lowering statins and who have a common gene mutation are more likely to have muscle aches related to the drugs' use. Read Summary > -
Is your heart healthy? Touch your toes to find out
If you're over 40 and can sit on the ground and reach past your toes it may indicate that your arteries are also flexible. Read Summary > -
Antidepressant type may impact risk of suicidal thoughts
A new study has found that men who take the antidepressant Aventyl are 10 times more likely to experience suicidal thoughts than men who take Lexapro. Read Summary > -
Vitamin D may help prevent falls
A high dose vitamin D supplement may help prevent seniors from taking falls, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
ACL Tears Send More Teens to OR
It sends thousands of patients to the OR every year, and those patients are getting younger. New research shows ACL tears are on the rise in women and teens, and more and more often leading to re-injury and multiple surgeries. Read More > -
How to call in sick without losing your job
Experts discuss the best ways to call in sick without jeopardizing your job, including how to make the call and which days of the week will arouse the most suspicion if you consistently choose them to call in sick. Read Summary > -
Inexpensive drug combo may prevent heart attack, stroke
According to new research, giving a daily statin and ACE-inhibitor to people at high risk for having a heart attack or stroke may reduce their chances of such a cardiac event by more than 60 percent. Read Summary > -
TV drug ads are increasing--and so are concerns
Pharmaceutical companies are spending more money on television drug ads than ever before, but some patient advocates and doctors say the ads are damaging to both patients and the healthcare system. Read Summary > -
New test could ID 'silent' heart disease
A simple test called a coronary artery calcium scan could detect blockages in coronary arteries and help doctors identify patients with so-called "silent" heart disease. Read Summary > -
Mediterranean diet may ease depression
Spanish researchers have found that people who eat a Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and nuts are less likely to develop depression than people who don't consume this type of diet. Read Summary > -
Peppermint may affect cholesterol meds
According to a recent study, peppermint oil can affect the way such statins as Zocor, Mevacor, and Lipitor work. Read Summary > -
Early weight-loss surgery may be more helpful for young adults
Teens who undergo weight-loss surgery before they are "super obese" (200 percent over their ideal weight) have a better chance of maintaining a normal weight later, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
Obesity Alone Doesn't Cause Knee Arthritis
Obesity is considered one of the strongest risk factors for osteoarthritis, but a new study in mice suggests a hormone may play an important role. Read More > -
Could a bad economy be good for your health?
It sounds counter-intuitive, but experts say that a bad economy could have some health benefits. Read Summary > -
Senate Finance Committee rejects public healthcare option
Five Democrats voted with all of the panel's Republicans in opposing the inclusion of the government-run option in the bill in what is expected to be the first of several battles in Congress over the public option. Read Summary > -
Cardiologists look to new clot-busting treatments
Cardiologists are reconsidering the best dosages of the blood thinner Plavix for angioplasty patients, and at the same are looking at new clot-busting drugs being developed to replace the drug. Read Summary > -
Knowing cholesterol levels may protect against heart disease
Doctors say many people who are taking cholesterol-lowering drugs assume their cholesterol numbers are okay, but this is often not the case. Read Summary > -
Statins should treat inflammation: study
An analysis of a study of more than 17,000 people has found that statins should be used to treat people who have acceptable cholesterol levels but high levels of inflammation. Read Summary > -
Successful dieters show unique brain patterns
Researchers say it appears that successful dieters actually activate parts of their brain that help keep them from giving in to food temptation. Read Summary > -
Mediterranean diet trims the waistline and the family budget
The Mediterranean diet has been shown to help prevent heart woes and a host of other diseases, but experts say it may be out of reach for many people. Read Summary > -
9 'mother's health rules' get an update
Should you clean your plate, avoid reading in the dark, and sit up straight? Some experts say no. Read Summary > -
Avoiding autumn chore injuries
Experts at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offer a list of tips for avoiding the falls and other injuries that often accompany autumn chores. Read Summary > -
Preventing chronic disease saves money later: study
According to new research, preventing such chronic diseases and hypertension, obesity, and diabetes both adds years to people's lives and decreases their lifetime medical expenses. Read Summary > -
Depression, drinking, weight linked in young women
New research published in the journal General Hospital Psychiatry has found that excessive drinking, overeating, and depression appear to be linked in women under age 30. Read Summary > -
Consumers turning to alternative cholesterol treatments
A growing number of consumers are turning to alternative and herbal treatments to lower their cholesterol, but experts are unsure if these treatments actually work. Read Summary > -
3 factors cut 10 years off men's lives: study
Researchers in Great Britain have found that middle-aged men who smoke, have high blood pressure, or have high cholesterol reduce their life expectancy by 10 to 15 years compared to men without these heart disease risk factors. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Is good cholesterol a sign of good health?
A reader whose good cholesterol level is 115 asks if this level is normal, and if it is a sign of good heart health. Read Summary > -
Maximum weight limit may be easier to understand than BMI
A statistician has developed a "maximum weight limit" that he says may be easier for people to understand than the body mass index (BMI) scale. Read Summary > -
Health experts want a soda tax
Many health experts say that adding a 1 cent tax on every ounce of soda would help stem the rise of obesity, and add 14.9 billion dollars for public health funding in America. Read Summary > -
Tasty foods may fool your brain into overeating
When the fatty acids hit the brain people become immune to the effects of insulin and leptin. Read Summary > -
Anxious kids at risk for obesity in later life
Children who suffer from anxiety and low self-esteem are at greater risk of becoming obese in adulthood, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Eat Your Veggies, Clear Up Acne
Though getting pimples or blemishes is a part of growing up, a Norwegian study suggests vegetables and a low-glycemic diet may protect your teen from acne. Read More > -
Anxious kids at risk for obesity in adulthood
Children with emotional problems are more likely to be obese in adulthood, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
Most American adults have some heart disease risk
According to a new study, only 7.5 percent of Americans do not have risk factors for the development of heart disease, a figure that suggests decades of progress against the condition may be on the wane. Read Summary > -
The 10 most important nutrition stories of the past 20 years
Experts say that the face of nutritional knowledge has completely changed in the past 20 years. Read Summary > -
Scientists ID brain circuits responsible for binge eating
Researchers say that understanding this binge-eating circuit could lead to treatments that may help prevent the 'drug-like' reaction caused in some people when they overeat junk food. Read Summary > -
Making the most of expiring health insurance
A health reporter talks about how you can prioritize the use of your employer's insurance if you believe you're in danger of losing it. Read Summary > -
Senator offers healthcare reform bill compromise
The new Baucus Proposal states that instead of a government-run insurance option favored by House Democrats, Congress would create a network of nonprofit cooperatives that would cover people without insurance. Read Summary > -
Statins before vein surgery cuts complications risk
Dutch scientists have found that patients about to undergo vascular surgery who are given a dose of a cholesterol-lowering statin before the procedure appear to have a reduced risk of complications and death. Read Summary > -
Crestor reduces risk of heart problems in the elderly, maker says
Drugmaker AstraZenaca is reporting that its cholesterol-lowering medication Crestor cuts the risk of heart attacks, angioplasty, strokes, and death in elderly people who take the drug. Read Summary > -
Whole flaxseeds may lower cholesterol
The combined results of several studies suggest that adding whole flaxseeds--but not flaxseed oil--to your diet may help your lower cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Protein links obesity, diabetes, heart problems
Japanese researchers say they've found a protein that may help explain why obesity leads to diabetes and heart disease. Read Summary > -
Hip-Waist ratio good gauge of obesity in elderly
After age 70, BMI is no longer an effective tool, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Thin thighs may equal bad health
Danish researchers say that people who have very small thighs may be at an increased risk of developing heart disease, or dying early. Read Summary > -
Nighttime eating may lead to weight gain
Researchers say that when you eat may be as important as what you eat when it comes to weight gain. Read Summary > -
Blueberry drink protects mice from obesity, diabetes
Lab results indicate that juice/bacteria combination could help people, too. Read Summary > -
Figuring out your medical bills
A reporter discusses the best ways to navigate the sea of medical-billing red tape. Read Summary > -
Weight-loss surgery cuts families' obesity cycle
Researchers say that the environment of a mother's womb may be as important or more important than genes when it comes to determining the risk of childhood obesity. Read Summary > -
Study: Cholesterol 'combo therapies' don't work
According to a new study, combinations of statins and other medicines such as niacin, bile acid sequestrants, and omega-3 fatty acids are not the most effective ways to lower cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Middle-Age Weight Gain May Increase Prostate Cancer Risk
Body mass and weight gain in middle age may influence a man's risk for prostate cancer, but this risk varies among different ethnic populations, according to a new study. Read More > -
Americans devour 'nutrient added' foods
Experts say that American consumers are buying more 'nutrient added' foods--even though many of them are just "dressed-up" junk food. Read Summary > -
Mediterranean diet beats low-fat diet for diabetics
After four years on their respective diets, 44 percent of those in the Mediterranean group needed medications to control their diabetes, compared to 70 percent on the low-fat, calorie controlled diet. Read Summary > -
Women more likely to die in the month after a heart attack
Researchers have found that women are more likely to die in the 30 days after suffering a heart attack, though they do not believe gender is itself responsible for the trend. Read Summary > -
Study: Surgery best for narrowed neck arteries
According to a new long-term study, surgery is more effective than angioplasty at clearing blockages in the carotid artery in the neck. Read Summary > -
The high price of cheap food
Experts say that cheap meats and produce aren't just bad for the environment--they're bad for humans, too. Read Summary > -
Meat, eggs, dairy don't increase odds of breast cancer
New studies find no clear link, but some experts say a lack of fiber may increase risk. Read Summary > -
Obesity increases the risk of prostate cancer recurrence
Men who are obese have a greater risk of a prostate cancer recurrence, no matter their race, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
FDA investigates Xenical, Alli over reports of liver damage
There have been 32 cases reported since orlistat came on the market in 1999. Read Summary > -
Overweight friends eat more when they're together
A study of children and teens suggests that overweight people eat more when they're together than they do when they're eating with a normal-weight friend. Read Summary > -
Oxycholesterol may pose greatest heart risk
Chinese scientists say a little-known type of cholesterol called oxycholesterol may do the most damage to the heart. Read Summary > -
Worrying worsens peripheral artery disease: study
People who are negative and inhibited--a so-called "Type D" personality--may have a higher risk of death among patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD), researchers have found. Read Summary > -
Popcorn may be as antioxidant rich as fruits, vegetables
A new study has found that popcorn and whole-grain breakfast cereals may contain as many antioxidants as fruits and vegetables. Read Summary > -
Food stamp users more prone to weight gain: study
People who use government food stamps in order to help pay for groceries may be at an increased risk of obesity, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Even modest fitness may extend your life
If you think you need to be a hardbody in order to live a long, healthy life, experts say you should think again. Read Summary > -
Vitamins and herbs that can harm you
Natural remedies such as St. John's wort and fish oil can cause harm if taken in the wrong doses or in conjunction with other drugs, experts say. Read Summary > -
Eliminating Milk Allergies Does a Body Good
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Saving Younger Knees
Most people take about 8,000 to 10,000 steps a day. In the average lifetime, that's 115,000 miles. Most cars wear out by then -- so why shouldn't your knees? More than 400,000 people will need knee replacements this year, but before Gen Xers go for the total trade-in, there's a new option that will keep younger knees in place -- longer. Read More > -
Researchers still looking for cellulite cure
Even women who eat right and are active complain about a problem with cellulite, experts say. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Why isn't walking helping me lose weight?
A reader who walks 90 minutes per day wants to know why her vigorous exercise schedule isn't leading to weight loss. Read Summary > -
Restrictive diet for kids may backfire
Putting your kids on a diet that completely restricts junk food may backfire in the long run, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Web site lets patients 'rate' their doctors
A new Web site called Patient Central is trying to help people choose their doctor by giving patients surveys about their experiences with physicians and then posting the results. Read Summary > -
Download the healthcare reform bill here
H.R. 3200--the Obama administration's hotly contested healthcare reform bill--is available in its entirety as a free download from the Library of Congress Web site. Read Summary > -
Mediterranean Diet, Exercise May Lower Alzheimer's Risk
Elderly people who ate lots of fruits, vegetables, legumes, cereal and fish and generally avoided red meat and poultry and who were physically active had a lower risk of Alzheimer disease, according to a new study. In a second study, adherence to a Mediterranean diet was associated with slower cognitive decline, but was not associated with a decreased risk of dementia. Read More > -
Weight loss rejuvenates the heart: study
British researchers have found that losing a lot of weight--either by dieting or through weight loss surgery--rejuvenates the physical structure of the heart. Read Summary > -
Which cholesterol supplements work?
There are plenty of dietary supplements on the market that claim to help you lower you cholesterol, but which work and which don't? Read Summary > -
Workouts help women cut cholesterol: study
A new long-term study has found that women who do as little as one extra hour of moderate exercise (such as taking a brisk walk) a week have lower levels of bad cholesterol than those who exercise less. Read Summary > -
Is the "exercise will make you thin" idea a myth?
According to an article in Time magazine, the idea that exercise alone can make you thin is a modern myth. Read Summary > -
Weight shouldn't guide kids' cholesterol screening
Experts say guidelines that use a child's weight as a predictor of high cholesterol may not be accurate and therefore should be revised. Read Summary > -
High debt linked to obesity
Researchers say that increasing debt is linked to an expanding waistline. Read Summary > -
Obama gives healthcare 'pep talk' to senators as they leave for break
The White House considers healthcare reform to be vital to a U.S. economic recovery and wants the legislation approved by the end of the year. Read Summary > -
Periodic dieting could reduce breast cancer risk
Women who restrict their calories periodically may be reducing their risk of breast cancer more than women who consistently diet, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
Fish oil both prevents and treats heart disease: study
A review of studies involving more than 400,000 patients has found that the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oils may not only prevent heart disease, but may also help treat the condition once it has begun. Read Summary > -
Billions spent on alternative medicine in US
Alternative medicine products and procedures such as chiropractic care, herbal supplements, acupuncture, and meditation cost Americans $33.9 billion in 2007, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
FDA approves Livalo to treat high cholesterol
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a new statin called Livalo to treat high cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Study: Probiotic Drink Failed to Prevent Diarrhea in Most Kids on Antibiotics
Kefir, one of the world's oldest "health" drinks, did little to prevent diarrhea in young children being treated with antibiotics, according to researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center (GUMC). Kefir, which originated in Europe and Asia, is a fermented milk drink that is believed to keep the stomach and immune system strong and stable. Read More > -
Are Your Eating Habits Putting You At Risk for Breast Cancer?
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Teens who focus on dieting at higher risk of disordered eating
Teens who place a high value on being thin, and who read or think a lot about losing weight are likely to show signs of disordered eating, experts say. Read Summary > -
Sugar usage tied to income, education
Americans who have a low income and education level eat more sugar, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Allergy drugs may fight diabetes, obesity
According to researchers, over-the-counter allergy and asthma drugs helped diabetic mice lose weight and control their blood sugar in a recent study. Read Summary > -
High cholesterol at midlife linked to dementia
A new study has found that having borderline to moderately high cholesterol at midlife could significantly increase a person's risk of developing dementia later in life. Read Summary > -
Calcium scans could spot heart trouble early
Scientists say they can better predict which patients with known heart disease are going to have a major cardiac event if they scan for levels of calcium in the patients' blood vessels during routine blood-vessel function tests. Read Summary > -
Organic food may not be healthier
A review of British studies conducted over the past 50 years suggests organic food may not have more nutrient content than conventionally-grown foods. Read Summary > -
House panel approves healthcare reform bill
The House Energy and Commerce Committee has approved a sweeping bill designed to overhaul the U.S. healthcare system, clearing the way for a vote by the full House in the fall. Read Summary > -
Cancer Survivors With Bad Health Habits Need a Little Nudge
More than half of the estimated 11 million cancer survivors in the United States are aged 65 or older. There are relatively few studies looking at older cancer survivors' health behaviors, but evidence suggests that many older, long-term cancer survivors have poor diet and exercise habits. Read More > -
FDA issues warning on body-building supplements
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning to consumers that they should avoid using body-building supplements that are marketed as containing steroids or steroid-like substances. Read Summary > -
Widespread availability of study data has changed stent use
According to a new report, the rapid availability of new data about the risks associated with the use of drug-eluting stents to clear blocked arteries has led to an almost immediate decrease in their use. Read Summary > -
Study predicts heart surgeon shortage
The aging population is growing rapidly, and experts predict there could be a severe shortage of cardiothoracic surgeons over the next 15 years as these patients require more and more heart procedures. Read Summary > -
Enormous Cost of Obesity
The growing obesity epidemic is costing Americans more than just their health. New studies estimate the medical cost of obesity may reach $147 billion annually. Read More > -
Asthma myth debunked: milk is no culprit
Researchers say the belief that milk causes or worsens mucus is a myth that dates back hundreds of years. Read Summary > -
Eating pattern in the obese mimics drug addicts' patterns
When researchers gave "sinful" snacks to obese and non-obese women, they found that those of a healthy weight wanted less over time, while obese women kept wanting more. Read Summary > -
Weight loss may help depression
In a recent six-month study, depressed patients who entered a weight loss program not only lost eight percent of their body weight, but they also reported significant improvements in their depression symptoms. Read Summary > -
Carotid artery areas react differently to plaque buildup: study
Researchers say this finding may help explain why deadly plaque accumulates at certain places in the artery. Read Summary > -
Obesity, migraine, ED sufferers may experience more emotional pain
According to a new survey, people who are obese, or who suffer from chronic migraines or erectile dysfunction, may experience more emotional trauma than people diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. Read Summary > -
Should children take statins?
New guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Heart Association that recommend statins for children as young as eight years old have sparked debate. Read Summary > -
And Foley Makes Three…
Perhaps a better title for this post would be "Foley Times Three" because instead of having one Foley for two or three weeks, I had three! Read Summary > -
Drugmakers pour $40 million into healthcare reform debate
Statistics show that the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), a lobbying group that represents 32 brandname drug companies, and its member companies have spent $40 million lobbying Congress as the lawmakers work to overhaul the U.S. healthcare system. Read Summary > -
Weight-loss enzyme identified
Researchers say they've found a way to curb hunger and rev up energy. Read Summary > -
Doctors judge patients by their looks, studies show
Several studies have found that doctors treat patients differently depending on their race and body weight. Read Summary > -
Fish may Save your Vision
Eat your fish and you may save your sight. A new study finds a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids may help the 10 percent of people 66 to 74 years old who suffer from age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Read More > -
Enhanced Meats May Spell Trouble for Kidney Disease Patients
Uncooked "enhanced" meat products may contain high levels of phosphorous and potassium that are not listed on food labels, making it difficult for kidney disease patients to limit harmful dietary intake of these additives. Patients on dialysis are at risk of premature sudden death should their blood phosphate or blood potassium levels become too high. "Enhanced" fresh meat and poultry products are an increasingly common source of dietary phosphorous and potassium. These foods are injected with a solution of water with sodium and potassium salts (particularly phosphates) as well as antioxidants and flavorings. While ingesting phosphates and potassium can be deadly for dialysis patients, there is no requirement that these ingredients be included on nutrition labels. There also have been no studies on the levels of phosphates and potassium contained in fresh meat and poultry products that have been enhanced. Richard Sherman, MD, and Ojas Mehta, DO, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, examined the potassium and phosphate content in a variety of enhanced and additive-free meat and poultry products available in local supermarkets. They found products labeled "enhanced" had an average phosphate concentration that was 28 percent higher than those "labeled additive-free," with some products almost 100 percent higher. Read More > -
The Dos and Don'ts of Eating During Pregnancy
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Reid: No healthcare vote until after August recess
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid says there will be no vote on healthcare reform before Congress takes its August break, a move that would go against President Obama's announced timetable for its vote. Read Summary > -
Studies affirm the value of a healthy lifestyle
Two studies have confirmed what all that heart-healthy advice has said: eating the right foods, losing weight, and exercising really do help both men and women avoid cardiovascular problems. Read Summary > -
New hope for damaged hearts
Mayo Clinic researchers say they have genetically engineered cells that help transform scar tissue into a type of cell that helps the heart repair itself after a heart attack. Read Summary > -
Scientists find how antioxidants help the heart
French scientists say they've begun to discover the exact molecular reasons foods such as orange juice and the popular spice tumeric help maintain heart and artery health. Read Summary > -
New obesity med may be released 2010
Around half of the patients who took the med lost at least 5 percent of their body weight, researchers said. Read Summary > -
Probiotics help patients after gastric bypass surgery
Patients lose weight faster and avoid vitamin B deficiency, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Varicose vein condition may mask clot disorder
Scientists found that one-quarter of the patients in a recent study who had superficial vein thrombosis--or varicose veins that have become swollen and painful--actually had the dangerous clot disorder deep vein thrombosis. Read Summary > -
Restaurant critic describes early food addiction
In this excerpt from his book, food critic Frank Bruni describes his childhood binge eating and food addiction. Read Summary > -
Economic stress is weighing on Americans--literally
According to new research, the current U.S. economic conditions are causing a great deal of stress for Americans, and this stress is causing them to gain weight, especially is they were overweight already. Read Summary > -
Study: Have a Drink, Lower Dementia Risk
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Q&A: Answers to top calcium questions
In this article from Newsday, experts at Harvard have put together a list of the top eight questions about calcium. Read Summary > -
House bill would make health care a 'right, responsibility'
Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives want to define health care as a right and a responsibility for all Americans. Read Summary > -
Excess weight speeds arthritis: study
Being overweight or obese speeds up the breakdown of the cartilage in the knee joint, leading to osteoarthritis, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Surgeon General choice will put primary care at the forefront
Dr. Regina Benjamin, President Obama's choice for Surgeon General, puts the face of primary care at the forefront of the Obama administration's healthcare reform efforts, experts say. Read Summary > -
New Technique Improves ACL Surgery
Surgeons from the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) in New York have identified a drilling technique that improves the outcome of surgery to reconstruct the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) of the knee. Tears of the ACL are quite common, with between 70,000 and 80,000 reported each year in the United States. Surgeons at HSS perform more than 800 ACL surgeries each year. Read More > -
Scientists ID genes for cellular cholesterol
German researchers are reporting that they have identified 20 genes that are linked to controlling cholesterol in cells. Read Summary > -
Statins linked to muscle damage in some patients
A new study has found that some patients with muscle pain continue to show muscle fiber damage even after they've stopped taking the cholesterol-lowering drugs. Read Summary > -
Obesity linked to same sex parent
Researchers say there is a strong possibility that you will gain weight in the same way that your same sex parent did. Read Summary > -
Simple Exercise Eases Tennis Elbow
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Congress questions the "purity" of bottled water
Consumers may not realize that tap water is better regulated and more cost effective, experts say. Read Summary > -
Charging medical bills a risky business
Unemployment rates are climbing and medical bills are mounting, forcing many American to pay their medical bills with credit cards. Read Summary > -
Raw chicken often contains hidden salt
Nutritionists say sodium levels in raw chicken often reach well over 400 mg per serving-- nearly one-third of the maximum daily intake of 1500 mg recommended for people at risk of high blood pressure. Read Summary > -
Early menopause, obesity linked to endometrial cancer
Researchers say being overweight significantly increases a woman's risk of developing endometrial cancer, especially if she has gone through early menopause. Read Summary > -
Anger takes a toll on the heart: experts
Scientists have found a strong relationship between anger and both the onset and progression of heart disease. Read Summary > -
New study supports wider use of statins
An analysis of previous research supports the idea that even healthy people who do not have heart disease can benefit from taking cholesterol-lowering statins. Read Summary > -
A heart-healthy guide to dining out
Experts offer suggestions for choosing heart-healthier options at your local Italian, Mexican, and Japanese restaurants, as well at your favorite steak houses and sandwich shops. Read Summary > -
Caffeine Treats Alzheimer's?
Drinking coffee may offer your body more than extra energy in the mornings. New studies suggest caffeine may prevent and reverse memory loss for Alzheimer's patients. Read More > -
Romantic partnership ups obesity risk
Marriage is associated with many positive health benefits, but waist size is not one of them, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
New procedure may ease rotator cuff injuries
Italian researchers say a new nonsurgical technique may help reduce pain and restore shoulder mobility in people who suffer from tendinitis of the rotator cuff. Read Summary > -
Animal Fat Linked to Pancreatic Cancer
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Hospitals close to agreeing to accept Medicare cuts
According to Kaiser Health News, the hospital industry is about to agree to accept federal funding cuts of $150 billion to $170 billion over the next decade to help pay for efforts to reform the national healthcare system. Read Summary > -
Statins may ward off Alzheimer's
Patients who take a cholesterol-lowing statin may be protected against Alzheimer's disease, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
Wal-Mart supports employer health insurance mandate
The Associated Press is reporting that the nation's largest private employer, Wal-Mart, has announced that it supports an employer health insurance mandate. Read Summary > -
11 health myths debunked
A health reporter debunks 11 myths about your health, and some of them truths may be surprising. Read Summary > -
Weight-loss surgery cuts cancer risk in women
A new study has found that obese women who undergo weight-loss surgery are 42 percent less likely to develop cancer than obese women who do not have surgery. Read Summary > -
USDA recalls beef from Colorado company
Officials with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) have recalled beef from a Colorado company because of possible E. coli contamination. Read Summary > -
How to get quick help in the ER
The average total wait time in an emergency room in the United States is four hours and three minutes, but experts say there are ways you can cut down your wait. Read Summary > -
Some Mediterranean diet ingredients healthier than others
Results from a new study suggest that some parts of the Mediterranean diet are more beneficial to good health than others. Read Summary > -
Statin-related muscle pain may be genetic: expert
A reader asks Joe and Teresa Graedon about the flu-like symptoms he experienced when he began taking the statin Lipitor, symptoms that stopped after his doctor took him off the cholesterol drug. Read Summary > -
Doctors avoid joint replacements for the very obese
According to a new study, orthopedic surgeons are less likely to recommend joint replacement surgery for patients who are morbidly obese, and researchers say the surgeons' unwillingness to do so is not justified. Read Summary > -
A few extra pounds may extend life: study
According to a new Canadian study, being overweight--but not obese--may help people live longer. Read Summary > -
6 things patients do that doctors hate
Patients are full of complaints about their doctors, but many doctors feel the same way about some of their patients. Read Summary > -
Hidden Heart Disease Impacts Endurance Athletes
There are a few endurance athletes for whom regular athletic training will increase the risk of cardiac arrhythmias and even sudden death, especially among those in middle-age or who have a pre-existing cardiac disease. Read More > -
Study: Patients often not told lab test results
According to a new study, patients who have routine blood tests done by their primary care physician often are never informed about the results. Read Summary > -
Wal-Mart, online pharmacies top affordable drug list: ADA
A study discussed at the American Diabetes Association meeting suggests that patients who do their research on finding the least expensive meds may save thousands of dollars per year. Read Summary > -
Vinegar may prevent weight gain
Researchers say animals fed vinegar did not gain as much weight as their peers. Read Summary > -
Parents Misdiagnose Milk Intolerance
Parents may be unnecessarily switching infant milk formulas. A study found many parents misinterpret normal baby behaviors as milk intolerance and needlessly switch formulas without consulting a health professional. Read More > -
Worldwide efforts to lower 'bad' cholesterol working: study
A new study funded by drugmaker Pfizer has found that global efforts to lower bad (LDL) cholesterol levels have been working in the past decade. Read Summary > -
Study: Statins no help against pneumonia
Though previous research had suggested that cholesterol-lowering statins might help protect the elderly from pneumonia, a new study has found this may not be the case. Read Summary > -
Drugmakers offer millions in senior discounts to help healthcare reform
U.S. drugmakers have agreed to pay out $80 million in discounts to seniors over the next decade in an effort to help pay for President Obama's healthcare reform plan. Read Summary > -
Slideshow: 5 simple things that may cut breast cancer risk
Experts say you don't have to aim for perfection in order to reduce your risk of cancer. Read Summary > -
Lower-carb diet may help you feel full longer
Researchers say lowering the percentage of carbs by 10 percent may be enough to increase feelings of fullness. Read Summary > -
8 ways to break free from emotional eating
Financial woes, job stress, and other common symptoms of the current economic climate are prompting many Americans to turn to sugary, fatty foods for comfort. Read Summary > -
Nestle Toll House cookie dough recalled
Nestle is recalling its Toll House refrigerated cookie dough in response to a U.S. Food and Drug Administration warning that the products may be contaminated with E. coli. Read Summary > -
FDA Warns: Don't Eat Nestle Toll House Cookie Dough
The FDA warns the cookie dough may be tainted by E. coli bacteria. Read Summary > -
What you should know about healthcare reform
A health reporter answers some of the most commonly asked questions about healthcare reform to help you understand this process as it moves through Congress. Read Summary > -
Insurance companies refuse to stop cancelling sick patients' policies
Despite calls to stop the practice, executives from the insurance industry's top three insurers--UnitedHealth Group, Wellpoint, and Assurant--say they will continue to cancel the insurance policies of some sick patients. Read Summary > -
Scientists ID how red wine boosts health
Scientists say they may have found out why the French suffer far less heart disease than Americans, despite having a diet high in fat and alcohol consumption, especially wine. Read Summary > -
Red yeast rice may help those who can't take statins
In a new study, Pennsylvania researchers found that a commercially available red yeast rice product significantly decreased the cholesterol in 62 patients with high cholesterol. Read Summary > -
9 medicines that do 'double-duty' work
Experts discuss a hair loss drug that fights prostate cancer, a cough medicine that may increase the chances of conception, and seven other drugs that work to treat more than one condition. Read Summary > -
FDA warns consumers to stop using 3 Zicam products
The FDA says Zicam-brand nasal gel, nasal swabs and nasal swabs "Kids Size" can cause a loss of the sense of smell that can be long-lasting or permanent. Read Summary > -
Obesity surgery may double risk of bone fractures
Surgery patients may be two to three times more likely to break a bone in the years following gastric bypass surgery. Read Summary > -
Red Yeast Rice Capsules Reduce Cholesterol
Red yeast rice pills could be one of the keys in helping people lower their cholesterol levels. Read More > -
White bread, cornflakes may increase heart risks
Researchers say eating foods with a high-glycemic index such as cornflakes and white bread may increase your risk of cardiovascular disease by interfering with the way your blood vessels work. Read Summary > -
Obama may limit medical malpractice lawsuits
President Obama told members of the American Medical Association (AMA) that imposing limits on medical malpractice lawsuits may be a "necessary part" of healthcare reform. Read Summary > -
Study: Too few women in clinical trials
According to a new study, many women appear to lack the resources or time to participate in a clinical trial. Read Summary > -
Old medications? Don't flush them
Flushing expired or unused prescription medications may seem like a safe and easy way to dispose of them, but health experts say this practice harms the environment. Read Summary > -
Ignorance of basic anatomy may hinder health care: study
In a recent study, British researchers found that only half of the people asked where their heart was could identity where it was located. Read Summary > -
Zocor may block nerve repair
New research published in The American Journal of Pathology has found that the cholesterol drug Zocor (simvastatin) may block the body's ability to repair damaged nerve tissue. Read Summary > -
What are your odds for heart failure?
One study isolates four risk factors for heart failure, while another has developed a "calculator" that can predict a person's risk for developing the condition in the next 30 years. Read Summary > -
Another blood fat linked to increased heart risks
People whose genes give them higher levels of a blood fat called lipoprotein(a) appear to have an increased risk of heart attacks, Danish researchers say. Read Summary > -
Exercise, Active Social Life Keeps You Sharp
Want to stay sharp as you age? Start making friends, quit smoking and start working out. Read More > -
Heavy Drinkers, Smokers Risk Developing Painful Condition
Only very heavy alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking appears to raise a person's risk for chronic pancreatitis, according to a new study. Read More > -
Replacing Worn Out Wrists
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Obesity may interfere with asthma treatment
A new study on 1,256 people has found that obesity may not worsen asthma, but it could affect asthma medications' effectiveness. Read Summary > -
FDA: Do not use Clarcon skin products
Officials at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are warning consumers not to use Clarcon skin sanitizers and skin protectants because they may be contaminated with a bacteria that could make users sick. Read Summary > -
'Eco-Atkins' diet sheds pounds, cholesterol
According to researchers, a modified Atkins low-carb plan that substitutes plant-based protein for animal proteins may help dieters lose weight and lower their cholesterol. Read Summary > -
10 easy food swaps that cut cholesterol
It's hard to think of getting rid of favorite foods for the sake of cutting cholesterol, since many people think losing their favorites also means losing flavor. Not so, say these experts. Read Summary > -
How soup may help you lose weight
Researchers in Great Britain say that eating soup--rather than a solid meal plus a drink--may help dieters lose weight. Read Summary > -
Could walk breaks make you a better runner?
Many former couch potatoes believe that a distance run is out of their league--and not just the marathon. Read Summary > -
Drugmaker seeks approval for new combo cholesterol pill
Drugmakers have asked the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to approve a new cholesterol medicine that combines TriLipix and Crestor. Read Summary > -
5 ways to avoid fake healthcare scams
A health reporter gives fives ways you can know if a medical discount or insurance plan is a scam. Read Summary > -
Aqua Lipo
It helps many slim down, but liposuction isn't easy. It requires anesthesia and often leads to swelling, pain and days of bruising. New technology is helping patients look leaner without the long recovery -- and the secret ingredient is water. Read More > -
Health Warning for Female Athletes
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Risks Behind Colorectal Cancer
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FDA lists drugs with potential safety risks
Officials with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have released a list of two dozen drugs that it is in the early stages of reviewing for possible safety problems. Read Summary > -
Weekly curry meals may help ward off dementia
The key ingredient in curries--curcumin--is a component of the spice turmeric, which has been shown to help prevent the formation of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain that may cause Alzheimer's. Read Summary > -
Seven surprising heartburn triggers
Fish oil supplements, peppermint, and even some pain relievers could be doing you more harm than good. Read Summary > -
Heart drug combo linked to GI bleeding
According to new research, common drug combinations used to treat heart disease may increase a patient's risk of developing upper gastrointestinal tract perforations or bleeding. Read Summary > -
Warning Issued for "Energy Gum"
Doctors are warning parents about the dangers of caffeine-containing chewing gum following an Italian boy's hospitalization. Read More > -
Mood boost from exercise may last 12 hours: study
Researchers say the mood boost people get from exercising may last for up to 12 hours. Read Summary > -
Obesity, diabetes boost heart failure risk
Scottish researchers say the dual epidemics of Type II diabetes and obesity will fuel an explosion on the number of people who suffer heart failure. Read Summary > -
Yoga may halve asthma symptoms
Researchers at the American College of Sports Medicine say that yoga can halve asthma symptoms after just 10 weeks. Read Summary > -
Caffeine reduces exercise-induced asthma
Researchers say some doses of caffeine may be as effective as an albuterol inhaler. Read Summary > -
Obesity may affect colonoscopy results
According to a new study, more rigorous prep is needed for patients who are obese to ensure accurate results. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Effects of a new weight-loss medication
Call for adults who have a BMI over 27 to participate in a clinical trial. Read Summary > -
'Tomato in a pill' may help prevent heart disease
Scientists have found that a supplement made from tomatoes may block the buildup of bad cholesterol that can cause heart attacks and strokes. Read Summary > -
Type of insurance affects weight-loss surgery outcome
Patients who have private insurance appear to lose more weight after bariatric surgery than patients who have Medicare insurance, researchers have found. Read Summary > -
Regular weigh-ins may help teens
Teenagers who check their weight regularly may be more likely to take healthy measures to control their weight, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
Hauser case brings up issue of parents' rights
Who has the right to make decisions about a child's medical needs--the parents, the doctors, or the courts? Read Summary > -
In NFL, Fitness Protects the Heart
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Weight Loss Tune-Up
Ninety-three million Americans are obese. When diet and exercise don't work, 200,000 will turn to gastric bypass for help. But what happens when gastric bypass doesn't do the trick? A new procedure that "tunes up" the weight loss process may be the answer. Read More > -
FDA says music, images in drug ads distract viewers
Prescription drug advertisements have drawn fire for portraying healthy-looking, smiling patients while explaining benefits, and then rushing through or providing distractions when required risk information is given. Read Summary > -
Obesity linked to flu severity
Experts say the problem could be that obesity prevents people from breathing deeply--a factor that also puts women in the third trimester of pregnancy at risk. Read Summary > -
Quick pep talks help with weight loss
New Zealand researchers say short, bi-weekly meetings may be as useful for dieters as expensive and intense weight-loss programs. Read Summary > -
Cholesterol drug cuts amputation risk for diabetics
The cholesterol drug fenofibrate (Tricor/Lofibra) appears to reduce the risk of toe and foot amputations, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Time in the sun may cut elderly's heart, diabetes risks
Experts say spending more time in the sun may help seniors cut their risk of heart disease and diabetes because sun exposure helps the skin make vitamin D. Read Summary > -
Higher fitness levels lower heart, death risks
New research suggests that staying healthy means a quality life that lasts longer. Read Summary > -
Study: Cholesterol meds prevent second stroke
A new study strengthens previous research that showed statins were effective at preventing a second stroke. Read Summary > -
Caffeine Beneficial to Male ALS Patients
Caffeine may benefit men suffering from ALS but it does not appear to have the same beneficial effects for women, according to a new study. Read More > -
Eat Fish, Boost Brain Power
Eating fish may be as good for your brain as a healthy dose of sunshine. Read More > -
Health Insurance 101: Advice for the recent grad
Most new college graduates say they're ready for the "real world." But are they ready for the world of health insurance? Read Summary > -
Fitness Levels may Lower Death Risks
Exercising regularly may offer more benefits than simply shedding extra pounds or relieving stress. A new analysis reveals a direct relationship between a higher level of cardiorespiratory fitness and a lower risk of all-cause death, coronary heart disease and cardiovascular disease. Read More > -
Mom’s Obesity Linked to Asthma in Kids
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Triglyceride level may predict odds of diabetic neuropathy
Diabetics who have high triglyceride levels may be at a greater risk for diabetic neuropathy than their peers, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Obese patients appear to do better with heart disease
Carrying extra body fat is a risk factor for developing heart disease, but researchers say that obese heart disease patients appear to have an easier time fighting it than their slim peers. Read Summary > -
Urine test may predict DVT, lung clot risk
In a new study, those with elevated albumin levels were more likely to get DVT, pulmonary embolisms. Read Summary > -
Drugmaker offers free medications to unemployed
Drugmaker Pfizer is making 70 of its most popular medications--including Lipitor, Viagra, and Celebrex-- available at no cost to people who have lost their jobs and do not have health insurance. Read Summary > -
Worries about weight linked to teen suicide attempts
According to a new study, even teens who only think they're fat face a higher suicide attempt risk. Read Summary > -
Drug Could Fight Sleep-Related Obesity
Could the way you sleep be linked to how much you weigh? Read More > -
Can you sleep your way to thin?
A study of nurses has found that those who sleep the most are thinner than those who get less shut-eye. Read Summary > -
5 tips for getting insurance with a pre-existing condition
A health reporter gives five tips for getting health insurance coverage if you have a pre-existing medical condition, including using COBRA, finding assistance through your state, and becoming a "group of one." Read Summary > -
A little drinking helps men live longer: study
According to a new study, a half a glass of wine or other alcohol beverage each day boosts men's life expectancy by five years. Read Summary > -
Study: Aspirin lowers stroke risk in PAD patents
But researchers say their findings may be limited by the lack of studies on the subject. Read Summary > -
Diet and Exercise Help Cancer Survivors
Cancer survivors may be able to reduce their risk for functional decline. A new report reveals a home-based exercise and diet program helped older survivors of colorectal, breast and prostate cancer stay healthy. Read More > -
Walnuts Lower Breast Cancer Risk
Next time you get a snack attack, reach for a handful of walnuts instead of chips or cookies and you could be reducing your risk of developing breast cancer. Read More > -
Taking Steps After a Stroke
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Power plate may shed weight faster than aerobics
Using a vibrating "power plate" may help dieters shed twice as much fat as conventional exercise, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
FDA warns Cheerios maker on heart claims
Officials the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have sent a warning letter to General Mills, the maker of Cheerios cereal, saying the company made inappropriate claims about the popular cereal's ability to lower cholesterol and treat heart disease. Read Summary > -
Type 2 diabetes may triple risk of pancreatitis
The study, which was was supported by two companies that manufacture the diabetes drug Byetta, included data on nearly one million adults. Read Summary > -
Vitamins after a workout may undo exercise benefits
People who exercise to lose weight and avoid diabetes may want to steer clear of vitamins C and A after a workout, experts say. Read Summary > -
Health literacy boosts happiness in older adults: study
Older adults who are able to read, understand, and use health and medical information are happier, new research suggests. Read Summary > -
Caffeine withdrawal triggers headaches, but it may not zap energy
The only benefit of caffeine may be that it wards off headaches and other symptoms of withdrawal, experts say. Read Summary > -
Slow, long, frequent walks better for cardiac rehab
Experts suggest a change of pace for cardiac rehab, saying walking slowly, often, and for long periods is better. Read Summary > -
New report highlights women's mental health issues
According to a new government report, women are nearly twice as likely as men to suffer from major depression, three times more likely to attempt suicide, and two to three times more likely to experience anxiety disorders than men. Read Summary > -
Probiotics may prevent belly fat after pregnancy
Pregnant women who take probiotics starting early in pregnancy do not develop as much belly fat after giving birth, a study has found. Read Summary > -
Overeating, not lack of exercise, to blame for obesity: study
Eating too many calories--not lack of exercise--is to blame for the obesity epidemic, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Report: Disabled Boomers a growing concern
A new report published the the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests that over the next 20 years, aging Baby Boomers are expected to cause large increases in the number of U.S. adults with disabilities. Read Summary > -
Study: Clinics less likely to send patients to cardiologists
A new study has found that women especially are affected if their primary care came from a community outlet. Read Summary > -
Urine test may uncover heart disease
The test looks for fragments of the protein collagen, which plays a major role in blocking heart arteries. Read Summary > -
Obesity, diabetes may hamper work life
People who are obese or have Type 2 diabetes are not as productive on the job as their normal-weight peers, a large new study has found. Read Summary > -
Top 10 diet and exercise excuses
Celebrity trainer Jillian Michaels, known for her role on the NBC reality program "The Biggest Loser" says that she hears the same 10 diet and exercise excuses from women all the time. Read Summary > -
White tea may prevent the formation of fat cells
White tea--a tea made from the buds and first leaves of the plant that produces the more popular green and black teas--may prevent the formation of fat cells. Read Summary > -
"Wii warriors" often play hurt
A health reporter talks to doctors and to "Wii warriors" about the Wii gaming system, its games, and the problems associated with its use--and overuse. Read Summary > -
Study: Managing cholesterol, BP lowers heart risks
A new study shows that people who've suffered a stroke may be able to lower their chances of having another stroke or a heart attack by reaching optimal cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Read Summary > -
Elderly should not use NSAIDs long-term: experts
An expert panel of American Geriatrics Society is all but "crossing off" non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) from its list of recommended drugs for older adults with chronic, persistent pain. Read Summary > -
Weight loss supplement Hydroxycut recalled
The FDA urged consumers to immediately stop using the 14 products involved in the recall, which are made by Iovate Health Sciences Inc and marketed for weight loss, boosting energy, and other uses. Read Summary > -
Fructose-sweetened drinks up metabolic syndrome risk
U.S. researchers say that drinks sweetened with fructose increase belly fat and insulin resistance in overweight people. Read Summary > -
Co-pays keep chronically ill from getting meds: study
Researchers have found that many patients are waiting years after a diagnosis to fill a first prescription because of high co-pay costs. Read Summary > -
Fatty fish may cut men's heart failure risk
A new study finds benefit from men consuming just one serving of fatty fish a week. Read Summary > -
Survey: Many more need statins
But a new survey finds that lack of access to medical care is a big factor in people not using the cholesterol-lowering drugs. Read Summary > -
Statins may protect against prostate cancer, ED
Several new studies suggest that cholesterol-lowering statins help prevent prostate cancer and reduce the risk of erectile dysfunction. Read Summary > -
Interview: Monica Seles talks about binge eating disorder
Tennis superstar Monica Seles has written a new memoir about her struggle with binge eating disorder and body image problems. Read Summary > -
Exercise reduces inflammation from belly fat
Researchers say exercise may help reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease, even if you don't change your diet. Read Summary > -
Vegetable juice may aid weight loss
Drinking one glass per day helped dieters lose more weight in a recent study. Read Summary > -
Alfalfa sprout warning issued
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is recommending that people not eat raw alfalfa sprouts because of concerns they may be contaminated with salmonella. Read Summary > -
Waking up during surgery common: study
U.S. researchers have found that waking up during surgery is surprisingly common, affecting 1-in-500 surgical cases. Read Summary > -
Do "His" and "Hers" multivitamins make a difference?
Are vitamins made for different genders really that different? A reporter looks at these claims. Read Summary > -
Canada becomes third nation to confirm swine flu cases
Canada became the third country to confirm human cases of swine flu Sunday as other nations considered wider measures to curb the spread of the virus. Read Summary > -
White House: Be prepared, not panicked about swine flu
Officials in the Obama administration are seeking to reassure an edgy public about a potential swine flu outbreak, stressing the need for patience and preparedness, not panic. Read Summary > -
3 ways to protect yourself from swine flu
Reporter Ben Sherwood offers this list of three ways you can protect yourself from the swine flu virus. Read Summary > -
State of emergency declared as U.S. swine flu cases rise to 20
The federal government has declared a public health emergency to deal with swine flu, the Associated Press reports. Read Summary > -
Weight loss surgery may improve ED symptoms
A new study suggests bariatric surgery may reduce ED symptoms and increase fertility in overweight men. Read Summary > -
Well-Done Meat Linked to Pancreatic Cancer
Ordering your steak well done could be harmful to your health. A new study finds people who eat meat cooked at high temperatures to the point of burning and charring could be at an increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Read More > -
Exercise Reduces Leakage through the Blood Brain Barrier
A recent study suggests physical exercise may strengthen the blood- brain barrier, limiting harmful materials from entering the brain. Read More > -
Wine Beneficial for Cancer Patients
Drinking wine may reduce the risk of death and relapse among non-Hodgkin's lymphoma patients, according to a new study. Read More > -
Study: Atkins diet harder on heart after weight loss
A new study found worse cholesterol, blood vessel health in patients on the Atkins diet than in patents who used the South Beach or Ornish regimens to lose weight. Read Summary > -
Blueberries may help ward off diabetes, heart disease
A heart-healthy diet that includes blueberries may help ward off belly fat, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar. Read Summary > -
BMI test shows a racial bias: study
Experts say the problem is that the BMI number does not take into consideration muscle mass, bone structure, or fat mass. Read Summary > -
3 million exercise balls recalled
CPSC announces recall of exercise balls based on reports they may burst. Read Summary > -
Drug Heals Broken Bones
A drug approved for the treatment of osteoporosis is healing broken bones with stem cells. Read More > -
Custom Ankle Replacements
Two million people visit the doctor every year because of pain from ankle arthritis or fractures. For some, ankle fusion was the only option to ease the pain, but it made the ankle stiff. A personalized ankle replacement could be the answer for those who want to put some spring back in their step. Read More > -
Extra weight in mid-life affects mobility later: study
A new study has found that seniors who lose weight are still at risk from previous obesity. Read Summary > -
Acetaminophen, statins may fight strokes
A new study suggests that the cholesterol-lowering drugs could help prevent an attack, while the painkiller might minimize damage. Read Summary > -
Weight discrimination harms women most: study
Women who are overweight are less likely to be hired or promoted, but weight doesn't hamper a man's career, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
Finger device may detect heart disease
A fingertip sensor tracks changes in blood flow, predicting odds for heart attack, experts say. Read Summary > -
Drug-eluting stents don't up clot risk: study
A new large study has found that there does not appear to be an increased risk of clots inside drug-eluting heart stents. Read Summary > -
Soybeans Reduce Effects of Menopause
There may be something in soybeans that can help reduce some of the symptoms of menopause. Read More > -
A New Explanation for Insulin Resistance
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Obesity linked to heart failure risk
Waist size important in women, not men, researchers report Read Summary > -
"Good" body fat may help you lose weight
The type of fat that babies store in order to regulate their body temperature may help adults lose weight as well. Read Summary > -
Big Belly Ups Chances for RLS
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Healthy Gums Equal Healthy Babies
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Obesity Rates Based on Ethnicity
Obesity rates may be affected by a child's ethnicity and race starting as early as four years old. Read More > -
Get Aggressive to Beat Smoking
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Broccoli Sprouts Ward Off Stomach Cancer
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Restless leg syndrome linked to obesity
Belly fat may be especially bad for the condition. Read Summary > -
One in five preschoolers is obese: study
One in five American 4-year-olds are obese, a new report suggests, and children of color are at the greatest risk. Read Summary > -
Young vegetarians prone to binge eating disorder
Young vegetarians tend to weigh less than their meat-eating peers, but experts say they may also be more at risk for binge eating disorder. Read Summary > -
Packing on Pounds Impacts the Gums
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Brush Your Way to a Healthy Baby
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Sleepless Nights Linked to High Blood Pressure
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Winter's Tail Helps Humans
She may be the only dolphin to lose her tail and survive. Now her progress in the water is helping amputees on land. The research behind the one-of-a-kind prosthetic is making life more comfortable for others who've lost a limb. Read More > -
Antioxidant-rich foods lose potency over time
Studies found levels of good compounds dropped after 6 months Read Summary > -
Kroger recalls mayonnaise in 3 states
Grocery store chain Kroger has recalled some store brand mayonnaise because it may be contaminated with salmonella. Read Summary > -
Provigil may help antipsychotic weight gain: study
A new study has found that adding the sleep-disorder drug Provigil (modafinil) may help reduce antipsychotic-related weight gain. Read Summary > -
How Hot is Too Hot for Tea?
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Repairing Rotator Cuffs
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10 best heart-healthy foods
A health reporter offers a list of 10 foods that will help keep your heart in tip-top shape. Read Summary > -
Investigational drug may prevent blood clots
Researchers say the new drug made from the magnolia tree works even when common blood thinners also are taken along with it. Read Summary > -
Omega-3s no help to heart attack patients
The standard drug therapy for people who have had a heart attack wipes out any protection the supplement might provide, study finds. Read Summary > -
One pill might prevent heart disease
A new study has found that five drugs in one dose reduced heart attack, stroke risk. Read Summary > -
Statins may help before artery-opening surgery
New Italian studies report fewer heart attacks after procedures when patients took statins. Read Summary > -
High blood fat levels common in Americans
High levels of blood fats, called triglycerides, may contribute to heart risk, study finds. Read Summary > -
TriLipix, Crestor combo better at improving heart risks: study
A new study has found that patients who take a combination of the cholesterol drugs TriLipix and Crestor improve their heart risk factors more than patients who take the individual medications alone. Read Summary > -
Walgreens offers free care to unemployed, uninsured
The drugstore chain Walgreens is offering free clinic visits to people who lose their jobs and health insurance through the end of this year. Read Summary > -
Avoid pistachios, FDA says
Officials at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are warning consumers not to eat any products containing pistachios because the nuts may be contaminated with salmonella. Read Summary > -
Obesity in Babies?
The current epidemic of childhood obesity could start when some babies are just six months old. Read More > -
Kroger recalls pistachios in 31 states
The recalled products may be contaminated with salmonella, Kroger officials say. Read Summary > -
Exercise ads may trigger overeating
New research from the University of Illinois suggests that looking at ads touting exercise may actually cause people to eat more. Read Summary > -
Obesity med trial shows disappointing results
The experimental obesity drug Lorcaserin has shown small results in a recent Phase 3 clinical trial, experts reveal. Read Summary > -
"Cleansing" diets may be trumped by whole foods
Experts say there is no scientific evidence that proves that the fasts are any better at removing toxins than the body’s own organs Read Summary > -
Diabetics Can Finally Drink Up
In the near future, diabetics may finally be able to enjoy a low-calorie, low-sugar vegetable juice custom-designed just for them. Read More > -
Study: Childhood Soy Diet Reduces Breast Cancer Risk
Asian-American women who ate a lot of soy during their childhood are significantly less likely to develop breast cancer than other women, even those who consume a lot of soy in adolescence and adulthood, according to a new study. Read More > -
Filtering Out Bad Cholesterol
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Crestor cuts risk of vein blood clots by 43 percent: study
This clotting, called venous thrombosis, is very common, and it can be disabling and even fatal. Read Summary > -
Tips for shopping for health insurance
A health reporter talks to experts about how you can navigate the "minefield" of choosing a private health plan. Read Summary > -
Tips for finding a diabetes-friendly pizza
The high carb, high fat treat can spell disaster for those with blood sugar problems, but it is possible to make a healthy pizza, experts say. Read Summary > -
Hot drinks may increase esophageal cancer risk
Drinking tea and other beverages at very hot temperatures may increase the risk of squamous cell esophageal cancer, researchers report. Read Summary > -
Weight loss may not help ease knee arthritis
Many people who suffer from knee arthritis believe that losing weight will ease their pain, but a new study suggests that may not be the case. Read Summary > -
Fatty fish may cut prostate cancer risk
Men who eat fatty fish, such as salmon, have a lower risk of developing advanced prostate cancer, particularly among men who are genetically predisposed to the disease, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Young Blacks More Likely to Die of Heart Disease
Young blacks are much more likely to die of heart disease before the age of 50 than young whites, according to a new study in the New England Journal of Medicine. Read More > -
Pass the Peas to Lower BP
A protein found in common garden peas could be the key to saving the lives of millions of people who suffer from high blood pressure and chronic kidney disease. Read More > -
Americans get too little vitamin D
A new report says that spending too much time indoors can lead to osteoporosis, heart disease, and even cancer. Read Summary > -
ADHD linked to obesity
People who are obese may be three to five times more likely to suffer from ADHD than their normal-weight peers, a recent study suggests. Read Summary > -
Eat Fish to Prevent Advanced Prostate Cancer
For the first time, researchers have found something that can protect against advanced prostate cancer, and it's as simple as choosing the right things to eat. Read More > -
Drinkers Beware: Face Flushing Sign of Cancer Risk
If your face gets flushed when you drink alcohol, you could be in danger of developing esophageal cancer. Read More > -
Group says buyers should beware acai berry claims
Companies charge hundred to credit cards, and for claims that experts say are unfounded. Read Summary > -
Study: Lowest cholesterol, blood pressure best
Researchers at the Cleveland Clinic have found that people who maintain the tightest control over the major risk factors for heart disease seem to have the greatest protection against cardiovascular problems. Read Summary > -
FDA adds to list of tainted weight loss supplements
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has added to the list of "natural" or "herbal" weight loss supplements that may contain potentially dangerous drugs. Read Summary > -
Too much red meat may reduce lifespan
A study by the U.S. National Cancer Institute has found that eating a diet high in red meat could increase the risk of dying from heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer's, stomach ulcers, and other diseases. Read Summary > -
Tool: Calculator for determining Type 2 diabetes risk
British scientists have developed an online calculator that can help you predict your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Read Summary > -
Trading carbs for protein may help dieters
A moderate-protein diet may trump a high-carbohydrate diet when it comes to weight loss, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Obesity can trim 10 years off your life
Being obese can trim as much as a decade off your life--a consequence similar to lifelong smoking--a new study has found. Read Summary > -
Aim for 100 steps per minute for moderate intensity
Researchers say that the recommendation to take 10,000 steps per day is good, but it doesn't take into account that some of those steps need to be done quickly enough to get your heart rate up--particularly if you're trying to lose weight. Read Summary > -
Stopping Peanut Allergies
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Stapling for Scoliosis
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10 ways to save on prescriptions
A recent study by Consumer Reports has found that 28 percent of Americans have taken dangerous steps to cut the cost of their prescription medications. Read Summary > -
Brain hemorrhage may explain Natasha Richardson's death
In the wake of the sudden death Wednesday of actress Natasha Richardson, reports that she suffered critical brain damage after a seemingly minor fall on a Canadian ski slope on Tuesday have many people wondering how this could happen. Read Summary > -
Good cholesterol has genetic links
Good blood could run in your blood, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Obesity Complicates Pancreatic Cancer
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Good Cholesterol has Genetic Links
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5 ways to boost your metabolism
Experts say that the speed of your metabolism is determined by many factors, including age, heredity, and gender, but it is possible to boost the rate at which you burn calories. Read Summary > -
Binging, dieting may change brain's chemistry
Conventional wisdom suggests that if you want to lose weight, you should burn more calories than you eat. Read Summary > -
Many seniors not selecting lowest cost Medicare drug plans
Too many choices along with confusing options are throwing up roadblocks to making the smartest decision, report says. Read Summary > -
Cholesterol drugs linked to increased fatigue
A new study shows a trend, but heart specialists remain skeptical. Read Summary > -
Shot of Ozone Zaps Back Pain
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Supreme Court rejects limits on drug-injury lawsuits
The Supreme Court made the ruling based on a case involving a Vermont musician who lost her arm to an anti-nausea drug. Read Summary > -
Red or White: Could one Prevent Breast Cancer?
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Love Handles put Squeeze on Lungs
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10 things you shouldn't keep from your doctor
According to experts, people lie to their doctors for a number of reasons, but keeping secrets from your doctor can endanger your health. Read Summary > -
A primer on national healthcare reform
A reporter answers some of the most common questions about how healthcare reform may--or may not--change the way you manage your health. Read Summary > -
Woman has brain surgery for weight loss
The program in West Virginia is part of a clinical trial approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Read Summary > -
Diabetes drugs may be given too early
A British study suggests that one in three patients with Type 2 diabetes may be given medication to control the condition "too early." Read Summary > -
Which Comes First? Alcohol or Depression?
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Rotator Cuff Repair Stands Test of Time
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Obesity boosts risk of joint replacement
Researchers in Australia have found that people who are obese and who also suffer from osteoarthritis (OA) are nearly three times more likely to need a hip or knee replacement later in life than people of normal weight. Read Summary > -
Running may build stronger bones than resistance training
A study from the University of Missouri has found that running may prevent bone loss better than resistance training. Read Summary > -
Daily Glass of Wine Good for the Esophagus
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Alcohol-Branded Merchandise Ups Teen Drinking
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Drinking Linked to Pancreatic Cancer
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Heavier men have worse sex lives: study
Obese men have worse sex lives, a new study finds, but researchers say gastric bypass can help restore function and sexual quality of life. Read Summary > -
Eight easy, affordable recipes
Eating well on a budget can be as simple as knowing which healthy foods are the most cost effective. Read Summary > -
Filtering Out Bad Cholesterol -- In-Depth Doctor's Interview
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Study confirms weight-loss surgery's ability to reverse diabetes
An analysis of 621 studies on more than 135,000 patients has confirmed weight-loss surgery's ability to reverse Type 2 diabetes. Read Summary > -
Staying fit may require 50 minutes of exercise per day
Experts typically recommend 30 minutes of exercise per day for optimum health, but new guidelines from the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) say that if you want to lose weight you may need more. Read Summary > -
Expert says obese teens should consider gastric banding
A well-known British pediatrician says that obese teens over the age of 15 should be given gastric bands in order to prevent even more damage to their health. Read Summary > -
Vitamins May Help Women Keep Their Eyesight
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Calcium May Protect Against Cancer
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Small Changes Can Decrease Risk of Stroke
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"Natural openings" may ease weight-loss surgery
Weight-loss surgery that is done through "natural openings" such as the mouth or the vagina significantly reduce the risk of post-surgical complications, experts say. Read Summary > -
Super-Sized Stroke Risk
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Obama to send $15 billion for state Medicaid programs
In a recent meeting with governors at the White House, President Barack Obama said his administration intends to distribute $15 billion within two days to help with states' Medicaid payments to the poor. Read Summary > -
Six diet trends you should never follow
Weight loss trends come and go, but one expert says there are six trendy programs people should never try. Read Summary > -
Add more facts to drug ads, experts urge
A new study wants the FDA to mandate boxes that clearly state how well a medication works. Read Summary > -
Heart Attack Alert
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Detecting Heart Failure
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Hold the Salt, Lower Your BP
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Healthy Lifestyles Needed for More Women
Poor health choices before pregnancy could be just as harmful as they are during pregnancy. But research shows very few women follow the recommended nutritional and lifestyle choices before they become pregnant. Read More > -
Clinical Trials Saving Kids
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Cookbook portion sizes linked to obesity epidemic
A new study points out that modern cookbooks have increased portion sizes, which could be leading people to overeat at home. Read Summary > -
Migraines linked to belly fat
Although obesity already is considered a risk factor for migraine headaches, a new study has found that the link may be stronger in people ages 55 and younger who carry extra weight in their abdomen. Read Summary > -
Sleep Linked to Tension Headaches
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Exercise boosts quality of life in postmenopausal women
Study finds even without weight loss, general health, functioning improve. Read Summary > -
The 10 best foods you aren't eating
America is full of unhealthy eaters, but even the most nutrition-conscious consumer can get into a rut when it comes to trying new things, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Get help here if you've lost your health insurance
If you're one of the millions of Americans who is living without health insurance, experts say there are things you can do to gain or regain health coverage. Read Summary > -
Cell Injections Mend Broken Bones?
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Gene Could Repair Injured Nerves
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SSRIs: Clarifying the Suicide Risk
Much has been written about the link between drugs used to treat depression and the risk of suicide. Read More > -
Vitamins Go to Kids Who Don't Need Them
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Fractures up Death Risk for Men and Women
Older men and women who suffer a broken bone are at higher risk of dying over the next five to ten years, and among those who have a second fracture, the risk period is even longer. Read More > -
Americans Living Longer Thanks to Cleaner Air
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Study: Blood Pressure Predicts Heart Disease
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Growth hormone may benefit gastric banding patients
A new study suggests it may limit the amount of lean muscle mass lost, and lead to greater fat loss. Read Summary > -
Can you gamble your way to weight loss?
Could backing up your slim-down goals with cold, hard cash help you lose weight? Some experts say it can. Read Summary > -
Lay-off fears can lead to healthcare mistakes
A health reporter talks to experts about the top three mistakes people can make with their health insurance during these uncertain economic times. Read Summary > -
Many unaware of the link between weight, smoking, and cancer
A “shocking” number of people don’t know that being overweight is a main risk factor for cancer, a new survey has found. Read Summary > -
Abilify, Xenical among drugs under FDA safety review
Officials with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration say they are reviewing dozens of products for potential safety problems, including several popular medications for depression, schizophrenia, and weight loss. Read Summary > -
Omega-6 fatty acids may lower heart disease risk
A new study published in the medical journal Circulation has found that omega-6 fatty acids are a beneficial part of a heart-healthy eating plan. Read Summary > -
Many experience weight-loss surgery complications
Bariatric surgery is booming in the United States, but experts say that more patients should be told about the potentially serious side effects of the surgery. Read Summary > -
Stimulus plan would pour millions into healthcare
The economic stimulus plan currently being debated in Washington would pour millions of dollars into healthcare, experts say. Read Summary > -
Plums hailed as new, cost-effective superfruit
Experts say those interested in good health should add plums to their list of “super fruits.” Read Summary > -
Coffee may protect against dementia
A European study suggests that drinking coffee may protect you from Alzheimer's disease later in life. Read Summary > -
Obesity virus may spread like the common cold
A new study suggests that a common virus may be responsible for obesity in some people. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Skip the yolk if you have high cholesterol
Dr. Mehmet Oz and Dr. Michael Roizen talk about how to know if you should eat an egg's yolk or toss it. Read Summary > -
Three cups of tea per day may cut breast cancer risk
Drinking three cups of tea per day may cut the risk of breast cancer in some women, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Low-carb diet beats low-calorie diet at burning liver fat: study
In a new study, researchers found that people who ate a low-carb diet burned more fat in their livers--and lost more weight overall--than those who ate a low-calorie diet. Read Summary > -
Healthcare expenses you can't afford to skip
As people cut healthcare spending to make their monthly bills, experts say there are some health-related expenses that you can't afford to skip. Read Summary > -
38 companies now involved in peanut butter recall
Experts say Americans eat 700 million pounds of peanut butter every year, which is complicating the recall effort. Read Summary > -
Surgery-Free Treatments for GERD
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FDA issues warning about skin-numbing drugs
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning to healthcare providers and consumers about serious and life-threatening risks associated with improper use of prescription and over-the-counter topical anesthetics. Read Summary > -
Women may find it harder to resist food temptation
A new study suggests that the ability to resist food may be more about brain power than will power. Read Summary > -
Heart Disease: The World's Number One Killer
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Mother's Diet Impacts Fetal Health
Moms to be may have more reason to stick to a healthy diet while they're pregnant. New research indicates a developing baby's health can be affected by the amount of fat consumed by his or her mother. Read More > -
Heart Condition Affects Exercise
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Most successful dieters lose weight on their own
A new survey has found that most successful dieters lose weight on their own, rather than with a commercial diet or diet pills. Read Summary > -
Too much, too little weight may increase migraines
New research suggests that being overweight or underweight may increase a person's risk of suffering from migraines. Read Summary > -
Light exercise can cut postmenopausal breast cancer risk
Exercise reduced the risk even if women did not lose weight. Read Summary > -
A simple checklist makes surgery safer, study finds
The 19-item checklist includes such basic steps as having the doctors and nurses introduce themselves, ensuring that adequate blood is on hand, and making certain that all equipment needed is present. Read Summary > -
A list of Kellogg's recalled peanut butter products
This article contains a list of the products voluntarily recalled by the Kellogg Co. because they could be contaminated with salmonella from a Georgia peanut processing facility. Read Summary > -
FDA warns consumers to avoid peanut butter products
Officials at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are warning consumers to avoid eating all products that contain peanut butter or peanut butter paste, except for jarred peanut butter. Read Summary > -
FDA eases off-label drug regulations
The move, which has been opposed by pharmaceutical industry critics, allows drugmakers to distribute medical journal articles that describe unapproved uses for drugs. Read Summary > -
Get More Sleep to Fight Off Colds
Not getting enough sleep won't just make you tired. It may also make you sick. Read More > -
Blood Type Fights HIV
Blood types may help determine whether a person can build resistance to contracting HIV or increase their chances of avoiding the virus altogether. Read More > -
Treadmills Walks Help PAD Patients
Research shows that those with Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) can better their walking performance, endurance, and quality of life through supervised treadmill exercise. Read More > -
Q&A: Obama's healthcare headache
Physician and health and science reporter David Brown discusses how President-elect Obama's promise to reform the U.S. healthcare system is going to be more difficult than many imagine. Read Summary > -
Natural Defense Against Colon Cancer
New evidence shows maslinic acid, a compound found in olive oil, can provide a natural defense against cancerous cells. Read More > -
Black Raspberries Fight Cancer
Black raspberries not only taste delicious, and now scientists say they may also help ward off cancer. Read More > -
Peanut butter recalled on salmonella scare
Ohio distributor King Nut has voluntarily recalled their brand of peanut butter after Minnesota officials found salmonella in a five-pound tub of the product. Read Summary > -
Healthy foods for less than $1
One expert offers a list of 20 items that increase health without breaking your budget. Read Summary > -
Tight Glucose Control Disappoints
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Failed Infection Control Ups Risk for Hepatitis
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FDA adds 41 products to diet pill warning
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has added 41 more product to a list of diet aids that may contain dangerous prescription drugs or illegal ingredients. Read Summary > -
Existing Drugs May Treat Obesity
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Health secrets for busy people
Nutritionists and personal trainers say it's easier to fit in healthy habits than many people think. Read Summary > -
Diet tied to breast cancer survival
Researchers say weight loss isn't the only reason healthy eating should be on your New Year's resolution list: it may also decrease your risk of death if you have breast cancer. Read Summary > -
Pros and cons of the top 11 fitness trends
Will "exergaming" help you get into shape, or should you try boot camp or high-intensity interval training instead? Read Summary > -
How to get a good deal on a gym membership
The economic recession has prompted many gyms to slash their prices, but how can you know if you're paying what you should for a gym membership? Read Summary > -
6 ways to exercise without knowing it
In this article, experts give six ways people can exercise without knowing they're doing it. Read Summary > -
Sleep Disorder Linked to Dementia, Parkinson?s
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Olive Oil: The New Cancer Weapon
Extra-virgin olive oil is a staple in Italian cooking, and it may also have a medicinal benefit in the fight against cancer. Read More > -
Autoimmunity Cells Found in Healthy Adults
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New Findings about Drug-Covered Stents
Drug eluting stents (DES) have been a topic of debate in the cardiovascular realm. Now, new research offers promising findings, as well as potential risks. Read More > -
Dangerous Prenatal Condition Linked to Exercise
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Shapely Bodies Handle Stress Better
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Exercise may be the antidote to memory decline
A new study has found that normal, age-related memory problems may be caused by rising blood sugar levels. Read Summary > -
Fetal alcohol syndrome often misdiagnosed as ADHD
The attention and behavioral problems that are associated with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) are often misdiagnosed as ADHD, experts say. Read Summary > -
Deaths Linked to Children's Cold Meds?
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The 10 healthiest diets in America
Every year thousands of American make resolutions to get fitter--not fatter--in the new year. Read Summary > -
Easing Nerve Pain after Surgery
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The top health-related stories of 2008
A reporter picks the top six health stories of 2008, including stem cell research, autism, and health care reform. Read Summary > -
Holiday Health Myths
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Elderly at risk for harmful drug interactions
The increasing number of medications -- prescription and nonprescription -- used by older people has raised the potential for harm from serious drug interactions, doctors warn in a report published Wednesday in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Read More > -
FDA warns about dangerous weight loss products
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning about more than two dozen weight-loss products that they say contain undeclared products that may be dangerous. Read Summary > -
Obesity may be set by age five: study
Researchers say most excess weight is gained by kids before they reach school age. Read Summary > -
Debunking common holiday myths
Researchers say that late-night eating won't make you fatter, and sugar isn't likely to make your children more hyper, either. Read Summary > -
Psychological Distress-Heart Disease Link
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Smoking Linked to Colorectal Cancer
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Allergies and Sleep Disruption
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Obesity hormone linked to psoriasis
Taiwanese researchers have found that people who suffer from psoriasis have higher amounts of an obesity-related hormone called leptin than people who do not have the skin condition. Read Summary > -
Qnexa leads to nine percent weight loss: study
Qnexa is a combination of phentermine--half of the recalled fen-phen diet pill--and the epilepsy drug Topamax, or topiramate. Read Summary > -
Success of gastric bypass sparks debate
The success of gastric bypass surgery on obese patients is sparking a debate on whether or not diabetics and other high-risk individuals would benefit from the procedure. Read Summary > -
"Healthy" gifts don't always hit the mark
Do salt lamps really ease asthma symptoms, and could a piece of chocolate carry healing thoughts? Read Summary > -
Stay Healthy With Sleep
The best way to stay healthy could be to get a good night's sleep. New research shows your immune system works in overdrive at night, killing bacteria. Read More > -
Weight-Loss Surgery: A Cure for Diabetes?
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Sugar as addictive as cocaine for some: study
It acts on dopamine in the brain in much the same way that hard drugs do, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Obese Kids Fare Worse in Car Crashes
Car crashes are dangerous for everyone involved, but new research shows they may be even more dangerous for obese children than children who are normal weight. Read More > -
Study: Vitamins C and E Don?t Prevent Cancer
New research suggests there may be one less reason to supplement with certain vitamins. Read More > -
See Green -- Lose Weight?
Some people need extra motivation to lose weight. New research shows cash could help people achieve short-term weight loss. Read More > -
Mediterranean diet plus nuts may fight metabolic syndrome
The Mediterranean-style diet, which is full of olive oil, fish, vegetables, and fruits, has once again been linked to an improvement in metabolic syndrome, a major risk factor for heart disease. Read Summary > -
Vitamin K slows insulin resistance in older men
The study's authors point out that the amount of vitamin K that appeared to work best in the study is available by eating a healthy diet, particularly green leafy vegetables. Read Summary > -
Bariatric surgery may cure liver disease
Up to 70 percent of obese people may have NAFLD, experts say. Read Summary > -
Fighting Against Breast Cancer in Obese Patients
A group of breast cancer drugs that had been deemed ineffective might be able to help a sub-group of breast cancer patients after all. Read More > -
Portion size may hold the key to weight loss
A new study suggests that mastering the ability to understand a portion size may hold the key to greater weight loss. Read Summary > -
Most Americans reach exercise guidelines
A new federal report says that almost two thirds of Americans met the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines set out by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Read Summary > -
Fighting Breast Cancer in Obese Patients
A group of breast cancer drugs that had been deemed ineffective might be able to help a sub-group of breast cancer patients after all. Read More > -
Folic Acid During Pregnancy Increases Risks
Being exposed to folic acid antagonists during pregnancy may lead to several serious conditions. Read More > -
Toxic Chemical Linked to Obesity
A toxic chemical may be contributing to the worldwide obesity epidemic. Read More > -
Some Diabetics at Higher Risk for Heart Disease
The combination of genetics and glycemic control may make some diabetics more likely to have heart disease. Read More > -
TV, internet use linked to obesity, ADHD in kids
A large new study has found that too much media exposure can harm kids’ health. Read Summary > -
Fast food linked to Alzheimer's disease
Can fast food cause Alzheimer’s disease? A new study suggests that there may be a link. Read Summary > -
Heart Healthy Vitamin D
A lack of vitamin D can cause bone and muscle weakness, but now researchers say it may also affect your heart health. Read More > -
Exercise Eases Depression and Heart Disease
Patients suffering from both coronary heart disease and symptoms of depression can cut their risk of cardiovascular events by exercising. Read More > -
Corticosteroids Linked to Pneumonia
Inhaling corticosteroids to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may cause pneumonia, a new study shows. Read More > -
New Species of Ebola Virus
Scientists discovered a new species of the Ebola virus, and they say it was responsible for a hemorrhagic fever outbreak in western Uganda in 2007. Read More > -
The Ups and Downs of Alcohol
The negative health effects and social impacts of alcohol abuse are well know, but moderate alcohol intake can be beneficial. Read More > -
Millions wasting money on "healthy" foods: expert
Overweight and obese people are wasting billions of dollars on quack "healthy" foods in an effort to lose weight, one expert reports in the British Medical Journal. Read Summary > -
Scientists Find New Way to Kill Pain
to develop new treatments. Previous research has helped them understand AEA's activity, but until now, specific methods to study 2-AG have been lacking, researchers said. Read More > -
Traces of melamine found in U.S. infant formula
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has found very low levels of the chemical melamine in one sample of a U.S. made baby formula. Read Summary > -
Potential Drug Therapy for Quitting Smoking
Researchers have uncovered information that may lead to a new medical treatment for nicotine addiction. Read More > -
Weekly weigh-in may help overweight teens
A controversial new study suggests that obese teens who weigh themselves weekly may have an easier time managing their weight than teens who avoid the scale, but some experts disagree. Read Summary > -
Weight-loss surgery benefits moms, babies
Bariatric surgery may benefit moms and their babies both before and during pregnancy, researchers say. Read Summary > -
The skinny on sugars and sweeteners
Wondering what the difference is between "raw" sugars, honey, molasses, and artificial sweeteners? Read on. Read Summary > -
Household Chemical Dangers
Household products used on a daily basis could cause chemical exposure that's hazardous to your health. Read More > -
Substitutions can make your holiday healthier
According to experts, you may not have to give up your favorite foods during the holiday season if you're willing to experiment with their recipes. Read Summary > -
Experts discuss vitamins they take--and ones they toss out
Health experts Dr. Andrew Weil, Dr. Christiane Northrup, Dr. Walter Willett, and Dr. Melina Jampolis talk about their own vitamin regimens, discussing which ones they take and which they've chosen to toss out. Read Summary > -
5 nutritional deficiencies and ways you can fix them
According to health experts, four of the top 10 causes of death are linked to poor diets or diets that lack important nutrients. Read Summary > -
Garlic compound may treat diabetes
A new drug based on a chemical found in garlic may be effective at treating Type 1 and Type II diabetes, Japanese researchers say. Read Summary > -
Weight Loss Surgery for Two
Undergoing bariatric weight loss surgery before becoming pregnant may be the healthiest decision for both mother and baby. Read More > -
Intervention Boosts Breast Cancer Survival
Psychological intervention programs may not only improve a breast cancer patients' overall health, they may also increase their chance of survival. Read More > -
Smokers Should Eat Broccoli
Broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables have a cancer preventative property that appears to work specifically in smokers. Read More > -
Chemobrain: The Battle after Cancer
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Understanding Lung Cancer
Although it's the deadliest cancer, not all smokers are affected by lung cancer equally. Now, doctors are one step closer to understanding why some patients develop lung cancer while others do not. Read More > -
A post-workout snack may cancel exercise's benefits
Many people believe they need to replenish their carb levels after exercise, but a new study says that may be true only for athletes. Read Summary > -
Obesity may be linked to pregnant mother's diet
Babies exposed to a fatty, high-calorie diet in the womb may be "pre-programmed" to a life of obesity and overeating, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Coaching plus supplement may boost weight loss
A phone coaching session in addition to a supplement may lead to double the weight loss. Read Summary > -
Walking may help curb chocolate cravings
Researchers at Exeter University say that a brisk, 15-minute walk may help reduce chocolate cravings. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Caffeine and Pregnancy
Avoid the stimulant while you're expecting Read More > -
Pregnancy Diet May Predict Obesity
Mothers who eat a high-fat diet during pregnancy may increase the likelihood of their child being overweight. Read More > -
Do Patients Get a Bad Deal?
Has the desire not to stigmatize mental health problems resulted in a situation where treatments are inadequate? Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Exercise to Beat Arthritis Pain
How activity can help you feel better Read More > -
Off-Label Prescriptions
When your doctor prescribes a medication, you just assume it's been fully vetted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Read More > -
Aspirin and Diabetic Cardio Risk
Low-dose aspirin has been recommended as a primary prevention strategy for patients with an increased cardiovascular risk, but new research shows it may not significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes. Read More > -
Low Potassium Leads to High Blood Pressure
Getting enough potassium may be even more important than lowering sodium for maintaining a healthy blood pressure -- especially for African Americans. Read More > -
The Folate Debate
An estimated one-third of adults in the United States currently take a multivitamin containing folic acid, vitamin B6 and B12, but the supplement might not be doing any good when it comes to cancer. Read More > -
Flu Shot Reduces Blood Clots
by 26 percent. VTE is a dangerous condition because if a clot were to break loose, it could travel through the blood stream and lodge in the heart, lungs or brain, causing potentially catastrophic damage. Read More > -
Killing the Superbug
The potentially deadly "superbug" could soon meet its match. Results of a new study bring scientists closer to killing methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Read More > -
Secondhand Smoke Leaves Some Hungry
A new study shows children who live with smokers are less likely to have adequate access to food. Read More > -
Health Tip: What's on Your Plate?
Review your food before eating it Read More > -
Health Tip: Obesity and Your Child
Finding the right weight-loss program is essential Read More > -
Weight Gain During Pregnancy
Gaining too much weight during pregnancy may be harder on your baby than you think. Read More > -
Health Tip: Controlling Muscle Cramps
Suggestions to prevent them Read More > -
Existing Conditions Delay MS Diagnosis
Having a pre-existing medical condition may mean a delayed diagnosis or increased severity at the time of diagnosis for people suffering from multiple sclerosis (MS). Read More > -
Old Blood Carries Risk of Infection
Blood transfusions bring new life to many people, but they also bring new dangers. New research shows when it comes to transfusions, the older the blood, the higher the risk of infection. Read More > -
Arthritis joins list of obesity-linked ailments
People who are overweight are more likely to suffer the pain of osteoarthritis in their hips and knees as they age than people of normal weight, new research suggests. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Lose Weight, and Keep it Off
Stick with your diet Read More > -
Skin Picking: A Sign of Deeper Problems
A cup of coffee may make you see your fellow man in a better light. Read Summary > -
Researchers recruiting children for 21-year study
The goal of the National Children's Study is to allow investigators to have a better understanding of a wide range of children's health issues. Read Summary > -
New obesity pill may be twice as effective as others
The pill appeared to work twice as well as Acomplia or Meridia. Read Summary > -
Eating Fast May Lead to Obesity
Gobbling down your food until you're full may triple your risk of being overweight. Read Summary > -
Links to Eye Disease
A new study suggests that people who are exposed to blue light from the sun and have low antioxidant levels are at greater risk for certain forms of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Read More > -
Exercise for Diabetics
Moderate exercise combined with some weightlifting may reduce fat levels in the livers of people with type 2 diabetes by up to 40 percent, according to a new Johns Hopkins University study. Read More > -
Mixed Results in Bone Study
Researchers ended with mixed results in a study designed to see if daily supplements of vitamin K1 would protect women at risk for osteoporosis. Read More > -
Vitamin D Recommendations Doubled
Vitamin D grows healthy bones and keeps them strong -- and new guidelines suggest your child may need double the amount he or she currently receives. Read More > -
Birth Weight Determines Birthmark Risk
A new study reveals low birth weight as the most significant factor for the development of common birthmarks called hemangiomas. Read More > -
Another Step Toward Polio Eradication
A polio vaccine that targets just one strain of the virus may offer more protection than the older, more comprehensive vaccine, new research shows. Read More > -
Kill Fat Cells, Reverse Diabetes?
Fighting diabetes could start in our fat cells. Researchers found killing off certain immune cells in fat and muscle can rapidly reverse insulin resistance. Read More > -
Exercise to Prevent Severe Strokes
People who are physically active before suffering a stroke may recover better and experience fewer problems compared to non-exercisers, according to a new study. Read More > -
Caffeine and Breast Cancer Risk
In a new study, researchers found caffeine is not associated with overall breast cancer risk, but it could increase the risk of cancer for women with benign breast disease or for specific types of tumors. Read More > -
Pain Isn?t Just a Symptom of Arthritis
Pain is often thought to be a debilitating symptom of osteoarthritis. But new research suggests pain is more than a symptom, it's a damaging part of the disease itself. Read More > -
Inherited Breast Cancer and Red Wine
A new study reveals a common thread between inherited breast cancer and red wine. Read More > -
Study finds constant vigilance is key to keeping weight off
Long-term successful dieters do have a secret, a new study found. Read Summary > -
Common sweetener may lead to weight gain
Splenda may not be good for your waistline, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Western diet boosts heart attack risk by 30 percent
Researchers say that the fried foods and high-salt snacks and meats that make up the bulk of a Western diet are responsible for about 30 percent of heart attack risks worldwide. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Choose Meats Wisely
Select the leanest and healthiest Read More > -
Being fat boosts inflammation
But exercise may help, even for those who are "fat and fit." Read Summary > -
Overeating may be all in your head
The push to overeat and gain weight may be linked to the brain chemical dopamine. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Make Time for Breakfast
Start the day with a healthy meal Read More > -
Eight ways to have a healthier Halloween
Experts from American Specialty Health Incorporated give eight ways you can make Halloween a healthier holiday for your children while still filling the night with tricks and treats. Read Summary > -
Weight linked to relationship happiness: study
Your waistline could be tied to how lucky you are in love, a new report suggests. Read Summary > -
Ordinary fruits and veg may also protect health
New research suggests that apples, oranges, and other "ordinary" fruits and vegetables may be as healthy as trendy "superfoods." Read Summary > -
Teflon substance linked to high cholesterol
A new study has found that residents of an area of West Virginia have far greater blood levels of a chemical used to make the non-stick cookware coating Teflon than average Americans, and that these levels may be boosting their cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Self-consciousness may prevent obese from getting fit
Self-consciousness, a fear of falling, and feeling too fat to exercise may prevent some obese women from working out, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
Eating fats can help curb appetite: study
Scientists say that a type of fat found in olive oil, avocados, and nuts can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Can I lower my cholesterol without statins?
A reader asks Joe and Teresa Graedon of the People's Pharmacy if it's possible to lower cholesterol without taking statins. Read Summary > -
Can what teens read aid weight loss?
A new series of books aimed at preteen girls may be helping them learn healthy eating skills, some experts say. Read Summary > -
Can a bad economy make us more healthy?
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Four healthy foods for a tight budget
Food prices have soared, experts say nutritious foods can still be on your shopping list. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Weight-Lifting Safety
Reduce your risk of injury Read More > -
Health Tip: Biking Safely
Suggestions for when your child pedals Read More > -
Asthma meds don't work as well in overweight patients
New research suggests that if you're overweight or obese common asthma meds may not work as well for you. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Running and incontinence
A reader asks experts at FitSugar.com why she suffers from occasional incontinence while running. Read Summary > -
Understanding medical studies
A reporter talks to experts about how consumers can weigh the evidence gleaned from different kinds of medical studies to help them decide which treatments may--and may not--work. Read Summary > -
Going into debt to have weight loss surgery
Every year thousands of Americans turn to bariatric surgery for weight loss. Read Summary > -
Some gyms tailor workouts to health conditions
More health clubs and gyms are offering workouts and classes specifically designed for people with chronic health conditions. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Stretch Your Hamstrings
To prevent pulling this muscle Read More > -
Study links snoring and obesity in teenagers
A follow-up study of teenagers with sleep-related breathing disorders found several links between that condition and obesity. Read Summary > -
Honey may ease sinus woes
The natural germ fighters found in honey may help bring relief to people suffering from the painful inflammation of sinusitis. Read Summary > -
Does running boost your osteoarthritis risk?
Many people believe running harms the joints and boosts a person's arthritis risk, but studies suggest the opposite may be true. Read Summary > -
Eating Fish May Protect Against Eczema
Eating fish while still an infant may help prevent the development of eczema, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
Lowering cholesterol with better eating
Maintaining a healthy weight and eating a heart-friendly diet are just as important as taking statins for reducing cholesterol's risks. Read Summary > -
Is dieting falling out of fashion?
A soon-to-be-released survey has found that the number of Americans on a diet is the lowest its been in twenty years. Read Summary > -
All probiotics are not created equal
Some experts say that the "friendly" bacteria found in foods such as yogurt may improve digestion and ease symptoms of allergies, irritable bowel syndrome, and lactose intolerance. Read Summary > -
Incontinence puts many women off sports
A new study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine suggests that incontinence may make many women reluctant to take part in sports. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Exercise for People With Diabetes
Help keep blood glucose under control Read More > -
Health Tip: Satisfying Food Cravings
Allow yourself a little to prevent eating a lot Read More > -
A good time to have your cholesterol checked
September is National Cholesterol Education Month, and if you haven't had your blood cholesterol checked in a while, this may be a good month to do it. Read Summary > -
10 Foods to Eat This Fall
If cooler weather makes you think of pumpkins and apples, experts say you need to broaden your horizons. Read Summary > -
Diabetics lose less fat after gastric bypass
A new study has found that diabetics lose less weight after gastric bypass surgery than patients without the disease. Read Summary > -
Spiritual Medicine
It's not something you typically discuss with your doctor, but a new study says you might want to bring up spirituality during an office visit. The research finds spirituality, including prayer, is important for well-being. Study authors feel religion and spirituality should be something assessed by physicians in order to develop a better patient-doctor relationship. Read More > -
Brush Your Teeth to Prevent Heart Disease
A nice smile isn't the only incentive to brush your teeth. Scientists say unhealthy teeth, bleeding gums and poor dental hygiene can end up causing heart disease. Read More > -
Survival Rates Improve
A new study finds the survival rates for children with hematological cancers have improved over the past decades. The study breaks down the comparison in four-year segments to get a better picture of current trends. Read More > -
Vitamin B12 Good for Older Brains
Senior citizens interested in hanging on to their brain power may want to increase the amount of meat, fish and milk in their diets. Read More > -
Protein for breakfast may keep dieters on track
A new study suggests that adding a serving of protein to your breakfast may help keep dieters full and satisfied during the day. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Preparing for Pregnancy
What's needed in your diet, and what you should avoid Read More > -
Pistachios may help lower bad cholesterol
A new study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition has found that eating pistachios may help lower levels of bad cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Study: Heavier people have heart attacks sooner
A team of researchers has found that the heavier you are, the more likely you are to have a heart attack earlier in life. Read Summary > -
Exercise may trump 'fat genes'
A study on the Amish community has found that high levels of daily activity appears to keep people slim, even if they are genetically predisposed to obesity. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Control Overeating
Suggestions to limit how much you eat Read More > -
Herpes Drug Doubles as HIV Treatment?
New research reveals a surprising interaction between a drug used for herpes and HIV. The research shows that drug, acyclovir (ACV) that is commonly used for herpes, directly suppresses HIV in co-infected tissues. Read More > -
Health Tip: Help Your Child Develop Healthy Habits
Set a good example at home Read More > -
Walking the Walk
The way a person walks can say a lot about who they are. Whether a person is a ballerina or a linebacker, their strut can provide cues to their age, gender and even mood. Read More > -
Giant Steps
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Health Tip: Eating a Brain-Healthy Diet
Nutritional suggestions to help keep your mind sharp Read More > -
Lack of Sleep may Cause Elderly Falls
Experts say about one-third of older adults experience dangerous falls each year -- and a new study says lack of sleep may be exacerbating the problem. Read More > -
Sweating Out Asthma
People who suffer from exercise-induced asthma (EIA) may benefit from strategies to increase their production of sweat and other bodily fluids. Read More > -
Health Tip: Understanding Serving Sizes
Know how much you should eat Read More > -
Obesity Dangerous for Asthmatics
Asthma and obesity is a dangerous combination. Read More > -
Thinking too hard may lead to overeating
Canadian researchers say that doing involved mental tasks can lead to overeating. Read Summary > -
Popular diets are nutritious enough
Popular diets such as Atkins, Weight Watchers, and Slim Fast help people lose weight and offer adequate nutrition, a new review has found. Read Summary > -
HIV Discovery may Lead to new Treatments
New insight into the process of HIV infection may lead to new treatments for the disease. Read More > -
Weight Gain Predicts Blood Pressure
Growing like a weed may put babies at risk for high blood pressure in adulthood. Read More > -
Calcium Linked to Prostate Cancer
Too much calcium in a man's bloodstream could increase his risk of developing fatal prostate cancer, according to a new study. However, excess calcium can be lowered fairly easily. Read More > -
Why Gastric Bypass Helps Diabetics
New evidence explains why patients who undergo gastric bypass surgery get their diabetes symptoms under control quickly -- often within days -- while those who have lap-band surgery do not. Read More > -
Catching Heart Attacks Earlier
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Health Tip: Take Care of a Cast
Protect your injury and stay comfortable Read More > -
Stressed mothers may raise fat children: study
Millions of poor children in the United States may be getting fat before age 10 because their mothers are stressed out and the youngsters seek escape in unhealthy comfort food, researchers said on Tuesday. Read More > -
Treadmill Helps Post Stroke
Walking on a treadmill isn't just for people wanting to slim down; it's also helping stroke victims regain mobility years after a stroke. Read More > -
Weight loss surgery doesn't stop apnea
Obese people with sleep apnea can expect weight loss surgery to ease the nighttime breathing problem, but not erase it. Read Summary > -
Fat cells are "sick" cells
A new study has found that the fat cells in obese people are "sick" when compared with the fat cells in slim people. Read Summary > -
Small packages may prompt overeating
If you think those "100 calorie packs" and other foods designed in small packaging help you lose weight, you may need to think again. Read Summary > -
Drug Lowers Blood Pressure in Teens
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HRT Improves Quality of Life
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Cholesterol Levels Linked to Cancer
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Snoring Linked to Childhood
Your childhood environment may determine whether you will snore when you are an adult. Read More > -
How to Kick the Smoking Habit
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FDA investigates Vytorin, cancer link
The FDA's move comes in response to a recent trial that found a higher incidence of cancer in Vytorin users. Read Summary > -
Study: Statins don't cause cancer
A team of researchers who reported a link between cancer and the use of drugs such as Crestor, Lipitor, and Zocor last year say further studies have disproved this link. Read Summary > -
Alcohol Dependence Delays Childbearing
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Chewing Gum Helps Recovery
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Addiction med may spur weight loss
A medication currently being studied for use in treating drug addiction has also been shown to spur rapid weight loss in animals. Read Summary > -
Overview of upcoming obesity meds
Pharmaceutical companies are still pushing to develop the next big, safe anti-obesity medication, and several meds are currently undergoing clinical trials. Read Summary > -
A Closer Look at Cheating
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Poor Sleep May Lead to Heart Problems
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Keeping Hips Young
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Health Tip: Monitor the Mercury in Your Food
Pregnant women and young children should be especially cautious Read More > -
Worry Disrupts Sleep of Caregivers
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Arsenic Linked to Diabetes?
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B Vitamins Don’t Help Heart Patients
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Gender Impacts Asthma Severity
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Orange, apple juices may also interfere with meds
Grapefruit juice isn't the only fruit juice that interferes with the proper absorption of medications. Read Summary > -
Antidepressants Impact Driving
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Immune System May Reject Stem Cells
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GPS Knee Replacement
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Health Tip: Take a Healthy Hike
Make sure you're prepared Read More > -
Health Tip: Who's Prone to Iron Deficiency?
Menstruating women to blood donors, among others Read More > -
Suicidal Thoughts Common Among Students
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Statins may help reverse ED in some men
Men who suffer from metabolic syndrome and have problems with erectile dysfunction (ED) may find fast relief from their ED by taking statins, new research suggests. Read Summary > -
Study: Mevacor may fight cancer
The cholesterol-lowering drug Mevacor may help people who suffer from melanoma and other cancers achieve remission, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Keep Cholesterol Under Control
Doing so may require lifestyle changes Read More > -
Air Pollutant Mimics Cigarette Smoke
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Wiping out Whiplash
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Study: Stents no better than meds after three years
A new study suggests that though people who undergo angioplasty rather than treat their heart condition with meds have improved quality of life afterwards, these advantages disappear by three years after the procedure. Read Summary > -
Breakfast eggs linked to weight loss
People who eat eggs for breakfast may find it easier to stick to a diet than people who have a higher-carbohydrate meal, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Running may help keep you young
A new study has found that running may help you live a longer, healthier life. Read Summary > -
Obesity linked to ear infections
According to several new studies, childhood ear infections may damage the body's ability to taste, which may make fatty and sweet foods even more tempting and ultimately lead to obesity. Read Summary > -
A Look at Vision in America
About half of the United States population of adults, age 20 and older, suffer from refractive errors -- eye problems that result in less than perfect vision. Read More > -
Is Smoking in Our Genes?
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Ear Infections Linked to Obesity
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The Heart of the ADHD Debate
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Immediate weight loss is key for diabetics
Losing weight after being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes may lead to lasting health benefits, even if you later regain weight, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Substance Abuse Overlooked in Elderly
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Fighting Flesh-Eating Bacteria
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Treating Childhood Mental Disorders
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New Treatment for Addicts?
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Soldiers Turn to Alcohol After Combat
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Marathon Runners: How do they do it?
The men's marathon Olympic event will take place on August 24th. Many of the eager fans waiting at the finish line are probably wondering how long-distance runners can endure such a strenuous sport. Now, researchers say they may have the answer. Read More > -
Immediate Weight Loss Key for Diabetics
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Zapping Oral Cancer
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Frailty Linked to Alzheimer’s Disease
Being frail could be an early sign of dementia, according to new research. The study links frailty and Alzheimer's disease with the same disease pathology. Read More > -
Anxiety Connected to Genes
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Experts push aggressive cholesterol control in kids
Experts say cholesterol-lowering treatments are often coming too late for patients to receive the maximum benefit. Read Summary > -
Study: Soy doesn't lower cholesterol
Though eating soy has been promoted as a way to lower cholesterol, researchers say they've failed to find evidence that this is the case. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: What to Wear While Running
Be sure to dress appropriately Read More > -
Early Maturing Girls Need Attention
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Immigrant Children Less Active?
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Cholesterol and Children
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The Future of Heart Disease
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Cholesterol, heart med combo may cause muscle damage
People who take the cholesterol drugs Zocor (simvastatin) or Vytorin along with a medication used to control irregular heartbeat have an increased risk of suffering severe muscle damage, the FDA says. Read Summary > -
Dog Could Help Those Going Blind
Man's best friend may be able to do more than guide the blind. Researchers say the discovery of a gene in a dachshund could eventually help people who suffer from eye disorders that can lead to blindness. Read More > -
Conquering Cystic Fibrosis
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Bone loss may continue after weight loss ends
When people lose weight, they often lose some muscle and bone mass as well, but a new study has found that changes in the bone may continue even after weight stabilizes. Read Summary > -
Video: The best and worst diet foods
Americans spend billions of dollars per year on diet foods, but which ones are healthiest? Read Summary > -
Fat deposits boost heart attack risk more than BMI
Fat deposits located around the heart may be more relevant to your heart attack risk than your body mass index (BMI) or waist measurement, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Fish Keeps Brain Healthy
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Sleep Linked to Weight
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Sniffing out Parkinson's
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The do's and don'ts of taking prescription meds
Dr. Larry Weinrauch responds to a reader's question about the best ways to take prescription medications. Read Summary > -
An Exercise Pill?
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Dialysis Risks
A simple bone disease test may signal an increased risk of death for people on dialysis for chronic kidney disease. Read More > -
Diet and Diabetes
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Clinical trial: Add-on treatment for high cholesterol
Call for adults who take statins to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Most heart patients have unhealthy cholesterol levels
Only 17 percent of cardiovascular disease patients were at recommended levels for all lipids in a new study. Read Summary > -
An Exercise Pill?
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Medicine's Next Big Thing: Lettuce for Diabetes
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Overweight? Your neighborhood may be to blame
The age of your neighborhood could be helping keep you overweight, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
Scientists say they've put exercise in a pill
Scientists say that drugs that mimic exercise may help you shed pounds without breaking a sweat. Read Summary > -
Copper Fights Hospital Infections
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Sweet Treat Protects Kids' Teeth
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Putting Melanoma into Remission
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Rising costs may reduce U.S. food portion sizes
rrr Read Summary > -
Researchers: Don't deny obese patients knee replacements
In some parts of the United Kingdom, knee replacement surgery is offered only to patients who are not clinically obese on the grounds that obesity is itself a risk factor for OA. Read Summary > -
Obesity driving kids to use adult meds
According to new data, hundreds of thousands of children are taking meds to treat Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and acid reflux. Read Summary > -
Study: Gene causes statin-related muscle pain
Some people who take cholesterol-lowering statins experience muscle pain or weakness, and British researchers say they may have discovered why. Read Summary > -
7 reasons not to ignore statin-related pain
A reporter, in conjunction with health experts, has compiled this list of seven reasons you shouldn't ignore statin-related muscle pain. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Prevent Dehydration
Drink before you get thirsty Read More > -
Mice Help Treat Sinusitis
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Treating Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
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Sound Wave Dental Surgery
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Study: Overweight workers aren't lazy, difficult
Contrary to popular beliefs, overweight adults are not lazier, more emotionally unstable, or harder to get along with than adults of normal weight, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Evaluate Your Diet
Is it time for a healthier eating plan? Read More > -
Mom's diabetes linked to early diabetes in teens
Babies who are exposed to their mother's obesity and diabetes while in the womb have a higher chance of developing Type 2 diabetes in their teens, new research suggests. Read Summary > -
Veggies may Prevent Blindness
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Repairing Spinal Fractures
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Study gives "troubling" results about Vytorin
In the new study, the combo cholesterol med failed to reduce heart valve problems, and trial patients taking the drug appeared to have a higher cancer risk. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Choosing Exercise Equipment
Ask questions before you make a purchase Read More > -
New cholesterol test may better predict heart risks
New research suggests that measuring proteins that carry cholesterol may help doctors predict patients' heart attack risk better than measuring their cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Plant sterols may pose health risk
Plant sterols have been said to lower cholesterol and help prevent heart disease, but new research suggests these compounds may have their own risks. Read Summary > -
Loud Music, More Drinking
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Recruiting Young Smokers
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Fixing Leaky Lungs
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Health Tip: Exercising During Pregnancy
Doctor-approved activity can help you feel better Read More > -
Preemies Face Tougher Life
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Lighting up Sinus Problems
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Exercise Might Slow Brain Shrinkage in Alzheimer’s Patients
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Eating Nuts During Pregnancy Increases Child’s Asthma Risk
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Best diet: Low-carb, low-fat, or Mediterranean?
A new, long-term diet study has found that low-carbohydrate diets and a Mediterranean-style diet are just as good--if not better--than a traditional low-fat diet. Read Summary > -
Stomach Bug May Protect Against Asthma
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Stem Cell Therapy for Dogs
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Perceptions of obesity may be changing for the worse
A new survey has found that while obesity rates have increased, people's perception of their own weight has diminished. Read Summary > -
Bad weather linked to obesity problem
Could bad weather be contributing to the obesity crisis? Read Summary > -
Women Deal With Concussions Differently
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Elbow Surgery ‘Disturbing Trend’ Among Teens
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Study: Stop Smoking Treatments Don?t Last
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Analysis: Red yeast products often contaminated
Walgreen's Finest Natural Red Yeast Rice, Natural Balance Red Yeast Rice Concentrated Extract, Solaray Red Yeast Rice, and VegLife 100% Vegan Red Yeast Rice were found to contain a toxic contaminant in a recent analysis. Read Summary > -
Study: Patients more likely to stay on Lipitor
Patients who take the cholesterol-lowering drug Lipitor are more likely to stay on the medication than those given the generic form of Zocor, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Vitamin A Combats Infant Mortality
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Genetics Make Quitting Harder
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DETECTing Declining Minds
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Weekends slow weight loss
Weekends sabotage weight loss efforts just as much as holidays, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Keeping a food diary can double weight loss
The simple act of writing down what you eat can help you double your weight loss, a new study has found. Read Summary > -
FDA approves new drug-coated stent
The Xience stent is an artery-opening, metal-mesh tube that's coated with everolimus, a drug that helps prevent the blood vessel from becoming blocked again with plaque. Read Summary > -
Heart disease prevention tips save lives, experts say
Prevention efforts such as losing weight, quitting smoking, lowering cholesterol, and taking an aspirin a day could cut heart attacks in the United States by 36 percent and strokes by 20 percent in the next three decades, a new report suggests. Read Summary > -
Healthy oils may protect the heart
New research has added to the evidence that consuming vegetable oils and foods rich in omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids helps the heart. Read Summary > -
Child’s Dental Health Linked to Pregnancy
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Red Wine and Breast Cancer
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The Future Perfect: Plastic Surgery Dangers
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Benefits of Red Wine
A new study says a large dose of one particular ingredient in red wine can ward off the effects of age on the heart, bones, eyes and muscles. Read More > -
Health Tip: Safety on Wheels
Prevent injuries from roller sports Read More > -
Health Tip: Eat More Vegetables
Make it easy on yourself Read More > -
Clinical trial: New cholesterol med's effect on CHD
Call for adults ages 18 years to 80 years who have coronary heart disease (CHD) or CHD risk-equivalent disease and take statins to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Cutting the fat from your diet
Experts give advice on the different kinds of fats and how to cut unhealthy foods and oils from your diet. Read Summary > -
Cholesterol screening urged for kids
New guidelines are urging wider cholesterol screening and more aggressive use of cholesterol-lowering drugs in children as young as age eight. Read Summary > -
Formula Blocks HIV to Infant
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You are What Your Mom Eats
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Drug Use Highest In U.S.
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Dangers in Your Backyard: Toxic Sandbox
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Healthy diet lowers women's death risk
Researchers say a low-fat, low-sugar diet that's heavy on vegetables, fruits, and whole grains is a woman's best defense against death from heart disease and other conditions. Read Summary > -
New anti-clotting pill shows promise
The drug, rivaroxaban, was more effective at reducing potentially fatal blood clots than heparin in three new studies. Read Summary > -
Older Drinking Age Saves Lives
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Caffeine Helps Prevent Multiple Sclerosis
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Dangers in Your Backyard: A New Cause of Diabetes
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Healthy Eating for Life
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Low-fat diet as heart-healthy as Mediterranean
The two diets provide similar amounts of protein, carbohydrates, cholesterol, and unhealthy saturated fats, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Statin use jumps more than 150 percent
A new government report has found that statin use rose 156 percent between 2000 and 2005. Read Summary > -
Study: Trans fat labels are misleading
No amount of trans fat is good for you, and researchers say Nutrition Facts labels do a poor job of getting this message across to consumers. Read Summary > -
Ditching Epilepsy Meds is Dangerous
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Diabetes Treatment Ups Depression Risk
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Substance Abuse Treatment Helpful in Pregnancies
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Hormone therapy may help keep weight off
A hormone treatment may help patients keep off the weight they have lost, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Morbid thoughts may increase appetite
Thinking about your own mortality may cause you to eat more, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Study: Medicaid co-pays reduce use of meds
A new U.S. study has found that adding even small co-pays to Medicaid prescription drug plans reduces the use of medications in patients with chronic conditions. Read Summary > -
Hormone No Fountain of Youth
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Heel Test Reveals Osteoporosis Risk
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Hospital Care for Women Inconsistent
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Health Tip: Don't Overdo Fast Food
And know what you're eating Read More > -
Deadly Infections in Hospitals
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STD Education With Videos
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Stopping Male Incontinence
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Health Tip: Get Needed Vitamins and Minerals
Here's where to find them Read More > -
Enter your creative works about living with pain
The American Pain Foundation, in collaboration with The HealthCentral Network, is inviting you to share your painting, sculpture, video, words, or pictures about living with pain. Read Summary > -
Cervical Cancer Screening Needed in Developing World
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Big Breakfast Helps Weight Loss
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Obese Feel Social Discrimination
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Health Tip: Make Exercise a Daily Habit
How to stick to your schedule Read More > -
Good cholesterol med may be delayed until 2013
Drugmaker Merck says it may have to wait until 2013 before the FDA will consider MK-0524A for approval. Read Summary > -
Video: Shopping for heart-healthy foods
A dietician takes viewers on a tour of the grocery store to help them choose foods that are effective at lowering cholesterol and promoting heart health. Read Summary > -
Coffee Could Lower Death Risk
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Exercise may not reduce hunger for the overweight
Conventional wisdom has stated that exercise reduces hunger, but a new study has found that idea to be only half true. Read Summary > -
AMA: High Fructose Corn Syrup not linked to obesity
Some experts from the American Medical Association (AMA) argue that there is no direct link between High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) and obesity. Read Summary > -
Big breakfast tied to weight loss
A new study suggests that breakfast really may be the most important meal of the day, especially if you're trying to lose weight. Read Summary > -
Study: Lifestyle counseling reduces heart risks
Intensive lifestyle counseling may help people at high risk for heart disease, a new British study suggests. Read Summary > -
Woman’s Diet Linked to Child’s Puberty
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Gene Variation May Block Cholesterol Drugs
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Diabetes Drug Slows Early Puberty in Girls
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Coffee Could Lower Death Risk
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Ruling delays generic Lipitor until 2011
Generic versions of the cholesterol drug won't be available on the U.S. market until November 30, 2011, under the terms of a new agreement. Read Summary > -
New York City Still Reeling from 9/11
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Hypertension Traced to Childhood
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Estrogen Therapy Depends on Timing
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Helmet Law Aims to Protect
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Injection-Free Diabetes Control
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The Ins and Outs of Eating Organic
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Smoking Vaccine Being Developed
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Reducing Cholesterol
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Stem Cells to Fight Muscle Aging
A recent study on mice shows stem cells may be able to stop the effects of aging on muscles, which could prevent conditions like muscle atrophy and Parkinson's disease. Read More > -
Study helps explain why statins don't work for everyone
California researchers say a genetic "quirk" may explain why some people don't get the full cholesterol-lowering effect of statins. Read Summary > -
Chinese red yeast rice may prevent heart attacks
Researchers say Chinese red yeast rice may soon be used much the same way as cholesterol-lowering drugs to prevent heart attacks. Read Summary > -
Study: Black, white patients treated differently
Some black patients are less likely to gain long-term control of their blood glucose, cholesterol and blood pressure levels than white patients, new research suggests. Read Summary > -
A New Valve With No Open-Heart
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Video: Losing weight in virtual reality
Some researchers believe that watching yourself lose weight in virtual reality may help you shed pounds in the real world. Read Summary > -
Diabetic weight-loss plan may work long-term
A 12-week diet and exercise program designed by the Joslin Diabetes Center appears to help patients keep the weight off up to a year later, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
When is the right time to take meds?
Millions of people take medications, but most are not aware that the drugs may be more effective if taken at certain times of day. Read Summary > -
Hydration Without Calories
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High Tech Insomnia Treatments for Vets
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Delay School, Sleep More
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Health Tip: Getting Calcium If You're Lactose Intolerant
Here's a list of alternatives Read More > -
Early Birds Get Better Grades
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Chinese Remedy may Prevent Heart Attacks
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Happy Marriage, Better Sleep
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Brainy Babies
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Active Social Life Delays Memory Loss
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Ultrasound may help predict artery disease
Intravascular ultrasound has already been found effective at monitoring the progress of atherosclerosis in coronary arteries. Read Summary > -
5 ways to raise good cholesterol
Many people take statins to lower their bad cholesterol, but experts say raising good cholesterol levels is important to heart health as well. Read Summary > -
Study: Low-fat, high protein diet reduces bone loss
Many people lose bone mass when they lose weight, experts say, and this can become an issue for middle-aged people, particularly women. Read Summary > -
Diabetes Linked to Sleep Apnea
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Patients Missing Treatment
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Implanting Permanent Contacts
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Weight may be about more than what you eat
A new animal study adds evidence to the idea that weight loss is about more than just burning the calories you eat. Read Summary > -
Regulators: Acomplia linked to 5 deaths
A British regulatory agency says that the weight-loss medication Acomplia has been linked to five deaths and 720 drug reactions in the United Kingdom. Read Summary > -
Study: Depression, obesity linked
Researchers have found new evidence that people who are obese may be more likely to become depressed and that people who are depressed may be more likely to become obese. Read Summary > -
Fizzless Soda Not Good for Rehydrating Kids
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Quick Fix for Sun-Damaged Eyes
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Study: Extra weight helps some RA patients
In a recent study, heavier RA patients showed less joint damage than people who were carrying less weight. Read Summary > -
Recovery Organizations Benefit Teens Too
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Study: Lower cholesterol=lower prostate cancer risk
Experts say this link makes sense because prostate cancer is related to testosterone, and testosterone is related to cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Bad cholesterol linked to metabolic syndrome
Signs and symptoms of metabolic syndrome include abdominal obesity, high fasting blood sugar levels, and high blood fat levels. Read Summary > -
Extra Pounds Increase Knee, Hip Risks
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Cancer Survivors Stuck in Limbo
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Dried Tomatoes to Fight Prostate Cancer
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Health Tip: Diet for People With Alzheimer's
Help them eat properly Read More > -
Probiotics may speed weight loss after surgery
Patients who have undergone weight loss surgery may be able to lose even more weight by eating foods that contain probiotics, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Binge eating tied to biology, stress
If a stressful work day makes you reach for a bag of chips, experts say you may not be alone: even animals binge when they're overwhelmed. Read Summary > -
ADHD Damages Workplace Efficiency
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Vitamin D No Help in Prostate Cancer
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Secondhand Smoke Sends Children to Hospital
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Health Tip: Dealing With Exercise-Induced Asthma
Some do's and don'ts Read More > -
Gene may explain sweet tooth
Could a gene be to blame for your terrible sweet tooth? Read Summary > -
Study: Obesity raises men's hip OA risk
Being overweight has long been known to be a risk factor for OA, but a recent study is the first to show that being overweight is a risk factor for hip OA in men but not women. Read Summary > -
Total Ankle Replacement
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Health Tip: Taming a Sweet Tooth
Healthier options for your cravings Read More > -
Health Tip: Water Safety
Suggestions to keep you safe Read More > -
Painless Diabetes Test
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Marijuana may boost heart risks
Marijuana may cause the liver to produce too much of a protein that boosts fat levels in the blood, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Keeping Off the Weight
Stick with your eating plan Read More > -
Testing Teen Athletes
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Health Tip: Heart-Healthy Diet Should Start in Infancy
Here's what the American Heart Association recommends Read More > -
Early Rehab for COPD
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Health Tip: Walking for Exercise
Suggestions for doing it correctly Read More > -
Oxidative Stress Behind Lung Problems
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Grape, apple juice may prevent clogged arteries
Purple grape juice, apple juice, and the fruits themselves were found to cut atherosclerosis risks in hamsters in a new study. Read Summary > -
What boosts your cholesterol risk?
In this article from CNN, a reporter talks to health experts about what most of us don't know about cholesterol and its health risks. Read Summary > -
FDA to consider phone numbers on TV drug ads
In 1997, the federal government eased the rules on advertising on TV and radio, allowing drug companies to shorten the warnings on side effects in commercials. Read Summary > -
Heart-friendly cities for women
Cities in the West dominated the list of heart-healthy cities, while Southern and Midwestern cities brought up the rear. Read Summary > -
Statins may help women's irregular heartbeat
Study scientists say statins' anti-inflammatory effect may be behind the decrease in atrial fibrillation in older women. Read Summary > -
Four unusual markers may predict heart deaths
Scientists say they've found four "offbeat" biomarkers that can accurately predict the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. Read Summary > -
Cutting fat Lowers Risk for Prostate Cancer
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Helping Knees Heal Themselves
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Health Tip: Keeping the Caregiver Healthy
Here are ways to prevent feeling burned out and stressed Read More > -
Number of fat cells stays the same despite weight loss
Researchers have known that maintaining a weight loss is difficult, and now they may know why. Read Summary > -
Expert: Ads touting dairy for weight loss are misleading
Experts say that ads touting milk and other dairy products as weight-loss aids are misleading. Read Summary > -
Arthritis affects half of U.S. diabetics
Experts say obesity is a possible explanation for the link between the two conditions. Read Summary > -
Get Moving to Prevent Breast Cancer!
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Help for Small Hearts
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Cholesterol, hypertension linked to eye disease
High cholesterol and high blood pressure have been linked to retinal vein occlusion, a condition that leads to vision loss. Read Summary > -
Meds alone won't lower heart risks of overweight
Medications can only do so much to prevent cardiovascular problems, researchers say, and people must shed pounds to keep these problems away. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Can You Quit Smoking Without Weight Gain?
Suggestions to stay smoke-free and healthy Read More > -
Health Tip: Baby's Transition From Liquid Diet
Some signs it's time for solid foods Read More > -
Early-stage heart test underused, experts say
Women, elderly people, ethnic minorities, and people with lower incomes are the most likely to miss angina testing, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
New med helps when statins aren't enough
Darapladib works by fighting an enzyme found in artery plaque that makes the plaque more likely to rupture and block blood flow. Read Summary > -
Never too Late to Kick the Habit
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Bone loss linked to heart disease
A small study suggests that people with osteoporosis may be more likely to have obstructive coronary artery disease also. Read Summary > -
Common Drug Worsens Physical Function
-
Caution Over Anti-Obesity Drugs for Kids
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Herbicide Zaps Weeds and Fertility
-
Good and bad News About Strep Infection
-
Vitamins Don’t Prevent Heart Disease
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The Science of Obesity: When Willpower Isn't Enough
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Weight loss meds may disrupt kids' brain growth
Researchers say a class of weight loss meds that blocks appetite may impair the brain development of children. Read Summary > -
'Pear shape' may protect against diabetes
According to Harvard researchers, not all fat is created equal. Read Summary > -
Short Limbs Linked to Dementia
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Iron Supplements Harmful to Infants?
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The Science of Obesity: Kill the Craving
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Health Tip: Running Safely
Start conditioning, prevent injury Read More > -
Ibuprofen may Reduce Dementia Risk
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Teen Drinker Today: Heavy Drinker Later?
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Study: Chocolate bar lowers cholesterol
The results of a University of Illinois study have demonstrated an effective way to lower cholesterol levels - by eating chocolate bars. Read Summary > -
Can Women be fat and fit?
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Could an Aspirin a day Reduce Breast Cancer?
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More Peanut Butter, Please!
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The Science of Obesity: Programmed to be Fat?
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FDA approves artery plaque device
The InfraReDx LipiScan NIR Catheter Imaging System works by inserting a catheter with a fiber-optic laser light into the artery and measuring the light reflected back from the artery wall. Read Summary > -
Heart study contradicts 'fit but fat' theory
A new study of 39,000 women contradicts the theory that it's possible to be fit, but fat. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Exercising in Hot Weather
Take care to prevent a heat injury Read More > -
FDA rejects new cholesterol med
The med, called Cordaptive (MK-0524A), lowers bad cholesterol and raises good cholesterol and has been recommended for approval in Europe. Read Summary > -
Hip, knee replacements on the rise
Experts say the number of hip and knee replacements may skyrocket in the next seven years, an increase that could strain the U.S. health care system. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Exercising During Pregnancy
Preferred activities, and those to avoid Read More > -
A new Paradigm on Acid Reflux
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Gastric bypass may help low back pain
According to a new report, obese patients who underwent gastric bypass surgery to lose weight also reduced their amount of low back pain. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Combo treatment for high cholesterol
This national study is currently recruiting adults who have high cholesterol and who take statins. Read Summary > -
Cholesterol woes hit boys in their teens
Experts say hormones may explain why girls don't suffer the same symptoms of increased cardiovascular risk. Read Summary > -
Skin test spots cholesterol, heart risks
The test requires a small sample of skin cells scraped off the palm of the hand and measures levels of skin sterol, a molecular relative of blood cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Diabetes Before Pregnancy Doubles in Women, Teens
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Helping the Body Heal Itself
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Detecting Cancer at the Dentist's Office
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Addiction meds linked to depression
Anti-addiction medications designed to help people quit smoking, lose weight, and halt other addictions have been linked to depression, new research suggests. Read Summary > -
Sleep Problems More Likely as we age
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Health Tip: If You Have to Take Iron Supplements
Suggestions to make the medicine go down Read More > -
5 things to know before having weight loss surgery
According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 66 percent of all U.S. adults are overweight or obese. Read Summary > -
You are What Your Mother Eats
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Low Vitamin D Linked to PAD
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Health Tip: Warm Up Before Exercise
It's an essential part of your workout Read More > -
Midlife Cholesterol Tied to Alzheimer’s
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A bad Side to low Cholesterol?
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Belly fat could be making you fatter
The fat that some people carry around their middles could be making them even fatter, researchers have said. Read Summary > -
Low vitamin D levels linked to higher PAD risk
http://healthday.com/Article.asp?AID=614576 Read Summary > -
Another Reason to cut Your Addictions
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To Splint or not to Splint: Docs Disagree
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Statins may lower blood pressure
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/104138.php Read Summary > -
Alzheimer’s: Vitamin for Longer Life
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Exercise to Beat Cancer Fatigue
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Caffeine may help cholesterol patients fight Alzheimer's
http://www.ajc.com/health/content/shared-auto/healthnews/agng/614253.html Read Summary > -
Lipitor, Celebrex may fight prostate cancer
Scientists have found that the cholesterol-lowering drug Lipitor and the painkiller Celebrex may help control prostate cancer. Read Summary > -
Does stress cause weight gain?
General Medical Questions. Q: Can stress cause weight gain? .. .The Trusted Source .. Read Summary > -
Mid-Life Diabetes Linked to Alzheimer’s
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Freezing Eggs -- Increasing Odds
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Health Tip: Taking Folic Acid
How much do you need? Read More > -
Health Tip: Weight Gain During Pregnancy
How much is healthy Read More > -
Research your meds on the Treatments tab
Our new Treatments tab makes it easier for you to find articles on the specific medications you take. Read Summary > -
"Formularies" can change the doctor's orders
If you have health insurance that includes prescription drug coverage, the pharmacy card in your wallet gives your insurance company more power over your prescriptions than you may realize. It allows the insurer--not your pharmacy--to set the price of your prescription. Find out why and what you can do about it. Read Summary > -
Too much TV, not enough sleep linked to obesity
Infants and toddlers who sleep less than 12 hours a day are twice as likely to become overweight by age 3 than children who sleep longer. Read Summary > -
Government may monitor truck drivers for apnea
A federal agency that regulates truckers is taking a look at how to curb sleepiness in commercial drivers. Sleep apnea is dangerous to others on the road. Read Summary > -
Does Weight Loss Drug Slow Heart Disease?
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Health Tip: Maintain Healthy Blood Sugar During Exercise
Suggestions for diabetics Read More > -
Health Tip: Calculating Your BMI
And how to determine if you're at a healthy weight Read More > -
Heavier women may have more hot flashes
If you are a woman heading for menopause, here�s another reason to maintain a normal weight: a recent study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology showed that women who were overweight we Read Summary > -
Sleepless Nights Complicate Depression
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Health Tip: Avoiding Cellulite
Maintain a healthy lifestyle Read More > -
Q&A: The limits of willpower
Dr. Barry E. Levin, a neurologist at New Jersey Medical School, has been investigating the brain's role in obesity for more than 20 years. Read Summary > -
Two studies show Crestor's effectiveness against heart disease
http://www.webmd.com/cholesterol-management/news/20080401/statin-drug-crestor-slows-artery-plaque Read Summary > -
Too little or too much sleep packs on pounds
Hours in the sack may have more to do with your weight than hours in the gym, finds a new study that shows too little � or too much � shuteye is a major factor in obesity. Read Summary > -
Avandia may fight atherosclerosis in some bypass patients
http://healthday.com/Article.asp?AID=614140 Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Potassium-Rich Foods
How to get enough Read More > -
New blood thinner may beat Plavix in angioplasty patients
http://healthday.com/Article.asp?AID=613999 Read Summary > -
Asian Exercise for Diabetes
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Health Tip: Reading Food Labels
How to interpret them Read More > -
Premature delivery may boost women's cholesterol risk
http://healthday.com/Article.asp?AID=613959 Read Summary > -
Viewpoint: Are we healthier than we think?
According to author Shannon Brownlee, Americans are bombarded with medical news in an attempt to raise their 'awareness' of health conditions such as high cholesterol, osteoporosis, and pre-diabetes. Read Summary > -
Experts issue warning about Vytorin, Zetia
URL: http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/30/business/30cnd-vytorin.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin Read Summary > -
Gender Wars: Staying in Shape
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Sweet tooth? It may not matter after all
Podcast Transcript: Brains can register a food�s caloric value independent of our taste buds, say scientists from Duke University and from Portugal. Read Summary > -
Study: Weight bias as common as racial discrimination
Discrimination against overweight people-particularly women-is as common as racial discrimination, according to a study by the Rudd Center for Food Policy & Obesity at Yale University. Read Summary > -
Belly fat may double or triple Alzheimer's risk
A big waistline in your 40s could almost triple the threat of dementia in old age, according to US research. Read Summary > -
Belly fat Linked to Dementia
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Clinical trial: Niacin+statins to prevent heart disease
http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00120289 Read Summary > -
Create a test calendar to track your health
Many of us with diabetes feel better now than before our diagnosis. That�s probably mostly because we take better care of ourselves now and get more exercise. Read Summary > -
Save Your Heart With Diet and Medication
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Health Tip: Sports Safety for Kids
Rules to live by Read More > -
Flavonoids Help Heart Health
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Blueberries may fight cholesterol, colon cancer
(NaturalNews) Two recent studies conducted on animals suggest that eating blueberries may contribute to healthier cholesterol levels and help stave off colon cancer. Read Summary > -
Severe menopause symptoms boost women's heart risks
FRIDAY, March 14 (HealthDay News) -- Women who have the most severe menopausal symptoms may also be at a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Weight-Bearing Exercises Strengthen Bones
And help prevent osteoporosis Read More > -
Study: Parents can spot sleep problems in kids
A new study from the University of Rochester has found that parental observations and perceptions of their childrens� sleep habits are a valuable supplement to objective laboratory tests in detectin Read Summary > -
Exercise helps even if weight is stable
BLOOMINGTON, Ind., March 20 (UPI) -- Daily physical activity is beneficial to cardiovascular health even if the pounds don't drop as quickly many would like, a U.S. study found. Read Summary > -
Does metabolism matter in weight loss?
Do you know people who complain about having a slow metabolism and how they barely eat anything yet still gain weight? Read Summary > -
Diet Linked to Sperm Abnormalities
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Taking a vacation from exercise ups disease risk
UESDAY, March 18 (HealthDay News) -- Forget about regular, scheduled exercise for a minute. Read Summary > -
Aggressive Breast Cancer: Watch Your BMI
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Study: ACL tears in seniors worth fixing
A small new study suggests that older adults who suffer ACL tears in their knees recover as well from surgical repair of these injuries as younger people. Read Summary > -
Mammograms in Stereo
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Study: ADHD may increase girls' risk of eating disorders
A study of 228 teenagers suggests that girls who have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder are more likely to be overweight or underweight than girls who don't have ADHD. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: New med for high cholesterol
The purpose of this study is to test the effectiveness of the study drug, AEGR-733 alone and in combination with the medication, atorvastatin (Lipitor), on cholesterol in volunteers with moderately hi Read Summary > -
New soy cereal may help cholesterol, cancers
Breakfast of champions? Read Summary > -
Genes found that protect against atherosclerosis
One way of combating atherosclerosis is to reduce levels of "bad cholesterol" in the blood. Read Summary > -
Counseling may help keep the pounds off
Dieters are more likely to lose weight and keep it off if they have contact with a weight-loss counselor, a new study shows. Read Summary > -
Depression, anxiety linked to unhealthy habits
People who suffer from depression or anxiety are much more likely to be obese and to smoke both major risk factors for chronic disease according to a large nationwide study. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: If Your Child is a Vegetarian
Make sure the child gets the right nutrients Read More > -
Health Tip: Try Cross Training
Vary your exercise routine Read More > -
Health Tip: Your Diet and Sleep
What you eat can affect your rest Read More > -
Women less likely to be given common heart meds
Women and men experience a similar prevalence of adverse drug reactions in the treatment of coronary artery disease; however, women are significantly less likely than their male counterparts to be tre Read Summary > -
What to do when statins hurt
Doctors generally agree that all statin medications on the market are extremely safe, but none is completely free from the possibility of side effects, some quite serious. Read Summary > -
Dieticians may help lower cholesterol
March 7, 2008 -- Looking to tame your high cholesterol? New research shows what results you might get if you consult a registered dietitian. Read Summary > -
House bill mandates mental health coverage
The House of Representatives passed a bill Wednesday that would require health insurers to cover treatments for addiction and mental conditions the same way they provide for physical illnesses. Read Summary > -
New weight loss med targets 'belly bulge'
Scientists in London are putting a new spin on weight loss by developing drugs that keep the belly from bulging when you eat. Read Summary > -
Some experts doubt obesity epidemic
Go on, have another doughnut. According to some experts whose views are public health heresy, the jury is still out on how dangerous it is to be fat. Read Summary > -
Clearing confusion about stents
FRIDAY, Feb. 22 (HealthDay News) -- To stent or not to stent? Which type of the artery-opening device is best? When is heart bypass surgery smarter than getting a stent? Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Vytorin vs. Lipitor in seniors with high cholesterol
Call for people ages 65 years and older who have high cholesterol to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Statins may cause tendon problems
But experts say the risk of tendon problems is small and that the cardiovascular benefits of statin use outweigh this risk. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Get More Whole Grains
What to include at mealtime Read More > -
Survey: Americans getting less and less sleep
A study of almost 20,000 adults in four states showed that 10 percent of adults don't get enough sleep on a regular basis. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Does chocolate have health benefits?
Experts at WebMD answer common questions about chocolate, including those concerning the food's health benefits. Read Summary > -
Does nighttime eating really make you fat?
It may be a medical myth, one doctor says. Read Summary > -
Overweight Hispanic Kids Show Early Markers for Diabetes
Blood vessel damage sets stage for insulin resistance, heart disease, study finds Read More > -
Health Tip: Prevent Runner's Knee
Rest as soon as knee pain starts Read More > -
Health Tip: Get Enough Vitamin C
Signs that you may be deficient Read More > -
Nine natural ways to lower cholesterol
Experts at WebMD offer this list of nine supplements and foods that have been found to affect high cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Do statins cause memory loss in women?
Doctors say they've seen women lose cognitive abilities while taking statins, only to have the abilities return when women stop taking the meds. Read Summary > -
Costco offers discount drug plan for uninsured customers
Costco is offering a prescription-medication program to uninsured customers that provides instant price comparisons and recommends the cheapest option when filling a prescription at Costco stores. Read Summary > -
Study: Boys overeat all day, girls binge in private
Experts say society affects the way boys and girls overeat. Read Summary > -
Fast food can lead to fatty liver disease
Fatty liver disease is associated with insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Zinc in Your Diet
Make sure you're getting enough Read More > -
Cholesterol med may fight MRSA
A report in the Journal of the American Medical Association showed that methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus killed an estimated 19,000 Americans in 2005. Read Summary > -
FDA approves combo cholesterol med Simcor
Simcor is a combination of Niaspan and Zocor. Read Summary > -
Do You Hate That Face in the Mirror?
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Artificial sweeteners may cause weight gain
Animals consumed more calories, gained more fat, and did not lower their calories in the long term. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Let Shin Splints Heal
Rest is the best medicine Read More > -
Lack of sleep can increase kids' obesity risk
A recent study has found that not getting enough sleep can significantly increase a child's chance of becoming overweight. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Pack a Healthier Lunch
How to limit fat and calories Read More > -
Triglycerides linked to heart disease risk
Bad cholesterol levels have long been the focus of cholesterol screening, but researchers say doctors should be looking a triglyceride levels as well. Read Summary > -
Ask the Editor: What's so 'good' and 'bad' about cholesterol?
MedTrackAlert Editor Amy Tudor answers a reader's question about good and bad cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Discovery could make statins work even better
Researchers may have found a way to make cholesterol-lowering statins work better. Read Summary > -
Many angry over 'restaurants as obesity cops' plan
A better option, critics say, would be to tackle the way unhealthy foods are marketed to children, or ensure that poor people have access to healthy food that is as cost-saving as unhealthy food. Read Summary > -
Obesity may be largely genetic
Becoming overweight as a child is more likely to be the result of your genes than your lifestyle, one study claims. Read Summary > -
Lifting weights 'as good as running' a new study suggests
Resistance training helps the body form Type II muscle, which helps control metabolism, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Baby Quest: Boy or Girl: You Decide
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Health Tip: Before Giving Yoga a Try
Take precautions to help prevent injury Read More > -
New cholesterol med shows promise in early trials
Sobetirome is a new selective thyroid hormone receptor beta agonist that's designed to lower bad cholesterol levels. Read Summary > -
Baby Quest: Making Babies: No Men Needed!
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Health Tip: Exercise Routines for Arthritis Patients
Relieve symptoms with exercise Read More > -
Health Tip: Boys and Body Image
Males dwell on it, too Read More > -
Health Tip: Exercise for Teens
You don't have to hit the gym Read More > -
MedTrackAlert now offering text alerts
Readers can now get health news on their cell phones. MedTrackAlert is publishing health-related content through a text messaging service. Consumers may subscribe to the opt-in service here. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Eating During Pregnancy
Foods to avoid Read More > -
Western diet again linked to heart disease, diabetes risk
A person is thought to have metabolic syndrome if he or she has three or more of the following cardiovascular risk factors: large waist circumference, high blood pressure, high fasting glucose levels, low good cholesterol levels and high triglycerides. Read Summary > -
Study: Obesity surgery can cure diabetes
Lap-band surgery can lead to a significant loss of body fat, experts say. Read Summary > -
Healing Heel Pain
It's not unusual for your feet to feel a little run down at the end of a long day, but when feet become persistently painful, there's something wrong. Heel pain is one of the most common complaints when it comes to sore feet and it can be debilitating. Read More > -
Seven cholesterol-regulating genes discovered
U.S. researchers looked at over 20,000 people in three countries to identify the new cholesterol-regulating genes. Read Summary > -
Cholesterol may help build muscle
Having too little cholesterol could keep you from gaining exercise-related muscle, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Vytorin no better than generic, study finds
Patients in a recent study who took a generic form of Zocor had less artery-clogging plaque than those who took the brandname combination med. Read Summary > -
Study: Zetia has 'no medical benefit'
About 1 million Americans take Zetia, either alone or as part of the cholesterol combo med Vytorin. Read Summary > -
Study: Lipitor can't help bone health after menopause
Lipitor reduces high cholesterol but appears to have no effect on bone mineral density or bone metabolism in postmenopausal women, according to researchers. Read Summary > -
School popularity affects girls' weights
Feeling unpopular may contribue to weight gain later in adolescence, experts say. Read Summary > -
New diet med fights appetite, fat
Taranabant is in the same drug class as the medication Acomplia. Read Summary > -
Science affirms oatmeal's effect on cholesterol
Experts say the findings are even stronger than when the FDA first approved the health claim's appearance on oat products in 1997. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Walk for Good Health
Suggestions for starting a walking routine Read More > -
Congress investigates Lipitor ads
Some members of Congress are concerned that ads featuring Dr. Robert Jarvik could mislead consumers into taking the cholesterol-lowering med. Read Summary > -
Diabetes med may cut weight gain from antipsychotics
Metformin may help schizphrenia patients control the weight gain that often accompanies their medications, Chinese researchers have found. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Low-Sodium Meals
Suggestions to lower your salt intake Read More > -
AHA: Americans' cholesterol still too high
Experts say cardiovascular disease will take the lives of almost one million Americans in 2008. Read Summary > -
Overeating could be caused by lack of brain chemical
The lack of BDNF may cause the urge to overeat, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: New add-on treatment for high cholesterol
Call for adults with high cholesterol to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Lifestyle choices may prevent more than half of all cancers
Resolving to get in shape this year could help prevent cancers, experts say. Read Summary > -
Study: High triglycerides boost stroke risk
Researchers say these findings suggest that reducing triglycerides may be even more important than reducing bad cholesterol for lowering people's cardiovascular risk. Read Summary > -
Expert: 'Turf toe' could become arthritis
Hallux rigidus is a degenerative form of arthritis that affects the big toe. Read Summary > -
Anti-Cancer Beer
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Health Tip: Get Plenty of Potassium
A deficiency can be life-threatening Read More > -
Health Tip: Drug and Food Interactions
Ways to help prevent them Read More > -
Top 5 women's health stories in 2007
The Society for Women's Health Research has selected improvements in recognizing ovarian cancer symptom and in finding tumors in woman at high-risk for breast cancer as the most important news stories in 2007. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Prevent Shin Splints
Don't change exercise routine too abruptly Read More > -
New statin-free cholesterol med shows promise
KB2115 is designed to mimic the action of the thyroid hormone and speed up the hormone's ability to rid the body of bad cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Make Exercise Fun
Ways to get young children interested Read More > -
FDA panel rejects non-prescription statin
For the third time in seven years, a panel that advises the FDA has voted to reject and over-the-counter version of the cholesterol-lowering drug Mevacor. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Help Keep Diabetic Hearts Healthy
Lifestyle changes can make a big difference Read More > -
Enjoying the holidays in spite of high cholesterol
With the right strategy--and a few savvy substitutions--you can still eat deliciously and indulge in many of the holiday foods you love. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Spare the Needless Calories
Suggestions for buying and preparing meat Read More > -
Drugmaker to seek okay for new diet med
Taranabant is in the same class as Acomplia. Read Summary > -
Eat Mediterranean diet, live longer
Changes in diet and exercise levels could lower the risk of dying over the course of five years. Read Summary > -
U.S. cholesterol average hits new low
For the first time since 1960, the average cholesterol level of American adults is in the ideal range, a new survey shows. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Eating Fast Food?
Choose the healthier options Read More > -
Belly fat linked to higher heart risk
Measuring patients' waist-to-hip ratio may be a better predictor of heart disease risk than waist measurements alone, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Get Exercise at Work
Ways to stay fit Read More > -
Gene linked to statin side effect
Statins may 'switch on' a gene that causes muscle pain and damage, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Early Asthma Detection
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Overweight kids face early heart attacks, strokes
Two new studies give evidence that childhood obesity does affect heart-disease risks and life expectancy. Read Summary > -
Being fit may outweigh being fat
Being physically active may contribute more to longevity than weight, some researchers say. Read Summary > -
Gene helps turn carbs into fat
But 'turning off' this gene won't help, experts say. So staying thin means cutting processed carbs out of the diet. Read Summary > -
Gift idea: Take more steps in 2008
The editors at MedTrackAlert offer this healthful, helpful gift idea for people on your holiday list. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Accounting for Weight Gain
Fatty, high-calorie foods aren't the only contributors Read More > -
Cholesterol, stroke link puzzles scientists
Researchers say 'there's something very odd going on' in the link between cholesterol and stroke. Read Summary > -
Breathing problem affects more obese and African-American children
A nighttime breathing problem disproportionately affects children who are overweight and African- American, according to a new study. Read Summary > -
Gift idea: A cookie for high cholesterol
The editors at MedTrackAlert offer this healthful, helpful gift idea for people on your holiday list. Read Summary > -
Holidays don't have to mean extra weight
A reporter from HealthDay News talks to experts about ways to enjoy holiday foods without packing on all that holiday weight. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Vytorin vs. Lipitor in seniors at risk for heart disease
Call for adults ages 65 years and older who have high cholesterol to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: The Road to a Healthy Heart
Some easy ways to keep fit Read More > -
Obesity keeps some gastric bypass patients from proper care
Patients over 450 pounds may not be able to fit into imaging equipment. Read Summary > -
Study: Income, heart disease are linked
People who have lower income levels have higher levels of inflammation, which can lead to increased risk of heart disease. Read Summary > -
Three health factors that slow stroke recovery
Researchers say low levels of good cholesterol, high levels of an amino acid linked to meat-eating, and diabetes all cause greater post-stroke disability. Read Summary > -
Sleep deprivation can mean weight gain for new moms
New mothers who sleep less than five hours a night are at risk for gaining 11 pounds or more in their baby's first year, according to a new study. Read Summary > -
Test: Cholesterol myths and facts
Experts at WebMD have designed this test to help you tell the difference between cholesterol myths and facts. Read Summary > -
Study looks at rare statin side effect
Scientists working with zebrafish may have discovered a way to prevent skeletal muscle atrophy, a rare side effect from using cholesterol-lowering meds. Read Summary > -
Skin test helps identify people with some heart problems
A new cholesterol skin test was able to identify patients who were at risk for cholesterol-related cardiovascular problems but who did not yet show any symptoms. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Eat Healthy When You Eat Out
Suggestions for practical eating when you're not at home Read More > -
Obesity may interfere with prostate cancer blood test
Obese men have lower levels of PSA, the substance that a test that screens for prostate cancer is designed to measure. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Buying Athletic Shoes
Make sure they're comfortable Read More > -
Cholesterol med may prevent eye disorder in diabetics
Fenofibrate may help reduce the risk of retinopathy in people with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, Australian researchers say. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Avoid Holiday Overeating
How to prevent packing on extra pounds Read More > -
Acomplia linked to depression, anxiety
A panel that advises the FDA recommended that the diet med not be approved because of a higher risk of suicidal thoughts in some users. Read Summary > -
New Allergy Drops
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Fatty foods may disrupt sleep patterns
A high-fat diet can upset a person's internal body clock, affecting metabolism, sleep patterns, and appetite, according to new research. Read Summary > -
Lack of sleep linked to childhood obesity
Researchers believe that kids who don't get enough sleep are more likely to become overweight. Read Summary > -
Weight gain may make asthma control more difficult
Researchers say their findings suggest that helping asthma patients prevent weight gain could help them have better quality of life. Read Summary > -
Study: Statins lower stroke risk after bypass
In a study of 5,200 bypass patients, those who took statins after their bypass surgery were significantly less likely to suffer a post-operative stroke than those who didn't take the meds. Read Summary > -
Many patients stop taking cholesterol meds
Researchers found patterns to who is more likely to stop taking the meds, and who is more likely to stay on them. Read Summary > -
A few extra pounds may not be unhealthy
Being modestly overweight may help you live longer, some experts say. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: People With Cancer Can Exercise
But check with a doctor first Read More > -
Zocor linked to sleep problems
Though researchers are uncertain how much of a problem the sleep disturbances are to patients, they do want to raise awareness that some sleep issues could be linked to the cholesterol-lowering med. Read Summary > -
Study shows how exercise helps women's hearts
Exercise's role in reducing markers of inflammation in the body has the largest effect on women's heart risk, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Preeclampsia linked to heart disease
Preeclampsia, a condition in which abnormally high blood pressure develops during the second half of pregnancy, affects about 5 percent of all first pregnancies and is dangerous for both mother and child. Read Summary > -
Overweight moms at increased risk for kids with ADHD
Researchers say that women who are overweight during pregnancy have a higher risk of having hyperactive children than women at optimal weight. Read Summary > -
Study: Drug-coated stents as safe as bare metal stents
Researchers say this is good news because drug-coated stents reduce patients' need for a repeat angioplasty procedure within a year. Read Summary > -
Cholesterol meds have limits, flaws
New research suggests that drugs such as Crestor and torcetrapib reveal the limits to improving cardiovascular health with cholesterol meds. Read Summary > -
Simcor as effective as two-pill treatment, study finds
The new medication worked as well as or better than a combination of Niaspan and Zocor in the new study. Read Summary > -
Study: Soy med lowers cholesterol
Lunasin is a recently discovered component of soy that's thought to be the key to soy's cholesterol-lowering properties. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Stick to Your Exercise Program
Make it part of your routine Read More > -
More young adults taking cholesterol, BP meds
More aggressive preventative treatment or rising obesity, cholesterol, and hypertension rates in adults ages 20 to 44 years may be the cause, experts say. Read Summary > -
Researchers identify enzyme that fights artery plaque
Researchers say their discovery could lead to new treatments for heart disease. Read Summary > -
South American tea lowers cholesterol
Mate tea has been used medicinally for centuries, and now researchers hope to identify what causes the tea's medicinal effects. Read Summary > -
Some women athletes risk weak bones
Female college athletes who participate in certain sports appear to be more at risk for bone loss, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Inline Skating
Suggestions on doing it safely Read More > -
Health Tip: Exercise Doing Everyday Chores
Easy ways to get more exercise Read More > -
Yogurt may be tied to healthy body weight
It's portable and nutritious, experts say. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Prevent Injury From Raking Leaves
Take these precautions Read More > -
Bad habits may contribute to osteoporosis
Unhealthy habits can contribute to a person developing the bone-loss condition, the International Osteoporosis Foundation reports. Read Summary > -
Author: Diabetes, heart disease controlled by low-carb diet
A reporter from the LA Times talks to controversial author Gary Taubes, a science journalist who says it's carbs--and not fat--that causes weight and other health problems. Read Summary > -
Study looks at life after weight-loss surgery
Suicide and heart disease are among the reasons for an increased death risk, experts say. Read Summary > -
Obese kids show early signs of heart disease
Researchers say long-lasting damage can be done early in life. Read Summary > -
Study: Statins cut gallstone risk
A study of more than 50,000 women, the cholesterol meds cut people's gallbladder surgery risk by 18 percent, and reduced it by 75 percent if the women were also diabetic. Read Summary > -
Weight loss helpful before gastric bypass
People undergoing gastric bypass surgery for obesity can significantly reduce the length of their hospital stay if they lose 5 percent to 10 percent of their excess body weight before the procedure. In addition, the amount of weight they shed subsequently is likely to be greater, new research shows. Read More > -
Small changes help kids avoid weight gain
Encouraging families to cut out 100 calories worth of sugar per person a day and to walk an extra mile or so daily can help prevent kids from getting fat, a new study shows. Read More > -
India to host world toilet summit
Health and sanitation experts from 40 countries will meet in New Delhi later this month for the seventh World Toilet Summit to find ways to provide toilets for everyone by 2025. Read More > -
Statins may help prevent glaucoma
Statin users had slower progression of glaucoma in a new study--but only if they didn't also take aspirin. Read Summary > -
Long-life gene may help lower cholesterol
A gene linked to helping people live longer may also activate a pathway that clears cholesterol, scientists say. Read Summary > -
Statins slow lung decline, study finds
Cholesterol-lowering meds may slow age-related lung function loss, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Obesity boosts esophageal cancer risk
Patients who are obese are six times as likely to develop esophageal cancer as people at a healthy weight. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Add Essential Fatty Acids to Your Diet
Foods that are rich in omega-3s Read More > -
Health Tip: Say Cheers With Red Wine
How, in moderation, it may help keep you healthy Read More > -
Health Tip: The Benefits of Omega-3s
Why they're good for you Read More > -
Huge study to include 100,000 children
To understand how genes and the environment impact health, researchers are planning to study children nationwide from before birth to age 21 to determine the causes of obesity, autism, asthma, mental health disorders, and other problems. Read Summary > -
New statin shows promise in early trials
SLx-4090 lowered patients' triglycerides and bad cholesterol in Phase I clinical trials. Read Summary > -
Expert: OTC statins could stem heart epidemic
Rates of cardiovascular disease have reached epidemic levels in the United States, one expert says, and over-the-counter statins could help slow the soaring rates. Read Summary > -
Experts rate top diets' heart benefits
A new study ranks diets such as the Ornish diet, the Atkins diet, Weight Watchers, and the Zone diet for their benefits to cardiovascular health. Read Summary > -
Why Americans 'tune out' obesity talk
The problem isn't losing weight, expert James Hill says, it's keeping it off. Read Summary > -
FDA approves adjustable gastric band
The Realize band can be adjusted by doctors in order to determine stomach size. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Caffeine Facts
What is your 'caffeine sensitivity'? Read More > -
High levels of good cholesterol may protect heart
High good cholesterol levels can offer protection regardless of how much bad cholesterol a person has in their blood, a new trial suggests. Read Summary > -
Weight loss can control hypertension, study suggests
Patients can lower their blood pressure simply by losing weight, researchers say, but they must do it before they become obese. Read Summary > -
Millions have not had cholesterol checked, study finds
Income, ethnicity, gender, and income all affect whether a person has his or her cholesterol checked, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Anti-obesity hormone may increase stress
CRF2 appears to work by increasing time spent in stress-coping behaviors. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Considering Low-Carb?
Things you should know Read More > -
Health Tip: Finding Fiber in Your Diet
Foods that are fiber-rich Read More > -
Study: Doctors not communicating risk of birth defects
Physicians are not adequately advising women about medications that might be risky during pregnancy, according to a new study. Read Summary > -
The skinny on weight-loss supplements
From chromium to caffeine, the weight-loss supplement industry is big business. Read Summary > -
Being underweight may up Alzheimer's risk more than obesity
But being underweight may correlate to the early stages of Alzheimer's. Read Summary > -
Ritalin may curb appetite in adults
In a small study, researchers found that adults who took a single dose of Ritalin before mealtime ate 11 percent fewer calories and consumed 17 percent less fat than adults who were given a placebo. Read Summary > -
Smart Lipo
Liposuction is the most popular form of plastic surgery in the United States, with more than 300,000 Americans opting for the procedure each year. Now, there's a new alternative to traditional liposuction that's so quick and easy, you could do it over your lunch break! Read More > -
Health Tip: Plan Healthy Family Meals
Teach good eating habits early Read More > -
Study: Switching from Lipitor to Zocor boosts heart risk
A study led by Pfizer researchers suggests switching patients from Lipitor to Zocor may boost their cardiovascular risks. Read Summary > -
Tips for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels
Experts at LifeMasters offer these tips for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. Read Summary > -
Statins go head-to-head in new trial
Researchers hope the study will reveal which statin combination is a better choice for patients with high cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Study: Children should have cholesterol checked
A blood test could identify children with a dangerous genetic condition that increases their risk of early death from heart disease. Read Summary > -
Breast not Best for Asthma
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Health Tip: Do's and Don'ts While Breastfeeding
What new moms eat is still important Read More > -
Stable blood pressure, cholesterol may not ease heart risks
Researchers say being overweight is its own risk. Read Summary > -
Fish, "Fruity Veggies" Protect Against Asthma
-
Weight Alone Raises Heart Disease Risk
-
Brain Surgery Without a Knife
-
Nutrients Help Save Sight
-
Mediterranean Diet Boosts Alzheimer's Life Expectancy
-
Study: Even a little splurge may affect arteries
A study in Australia has found that even one meal high in saturated fats may hinder the body's ability to protect arteries from dangerous plaque. Read Summary > -
Food Additives Key Up Kids
-
FDA okays 'fat-melting' injection clinical trial
There are currently several types of 'Lipodissolve' treatments but no evidence that they work. Read Summary > -
Family therapy may help bulimics
Parental involvement may double the bulimia remission rate. Read Summary > -
Many College Athletes Don't Breath Easy
-
New cholesterol med Cordaptive effective, study finds
Cordaptive combines an extended-release form of niacin with a chemical that reduces flushing, a common side effect of niacin. Read Summary > -
'Skinny gene' may control body fat, diabetes
Manipulating the gene appeared to lower the amount of fat tissue that the animals gained. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Get Enough Vitamin D
Helps the body absorb calcium Read More > -
Death risk rises when stroke patients stop meds
Experts say these results point to a need for new strategies to keep stroke patients on cholesterol, anti-clotting meds. Read Summary > -
Vertigo med may treat obesity
A 60-year-old medication appears to suppress cravings for fatty foods. Read Summary > -
Survey: Most women don't know their cholesterol number
Knowing your cholesterol number is the first step in taking action to control cholesterol and its risks, experts say. Read Summary > -
Mom's diabetes linked to child's obesity
But being treated for the condition appears to remove the risk. Read Summary > -
Spine Surgery: Timing Matters!
-
Liver Transplant Recipients Benefit from Nitric Oxide
Inhaling nitric oxide (NO) may be a valuable preemptive treatment for patients receiving liver transplants. Read More > -
Study: Obesity doesn't bring on migraines
A recent study that looked for a connection between migraines and body mass index found that overweight women were not more likely than normal-weight women to have the severe headaches. Read Summary > -
Obesity linked to common virus
Adenovirus 36 may turn healthy cells into human fat cells. Read Summary > -
Weight-loss surgeries may save lives
Two studies reveal a dramatic reduction in long-term mortality. Read Summary > -
Study: Good cholesterol may have dark side
As researchers uncover more about HDL cholesterol, they are finding new information about how this good cholesterol works to protect--and harm--people's cardiovascular health. Read Summary > -
Diet important to statin users, research suggests
Scientists say patients who are given cholesterol-lowering meds do pay attention to their diet, contrary to what many doctors believe. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Dangerous Dieting
Fad or quick weight-loss diets can lead to health problems Read More > -
Study says even the gut can 'taste' sweets
The taste receptors appeared to be able to discern artificial sweeteners as well as natural sugars. Read Summary > -
Study: Statins no help against prostate cancer
Previous studies had suggested statins' ability to lower male hormones could reduce prostate cancer risk, but new research shows this may not be the case. Read Summary > -
Stress management may raise good cholesterol
Men who handle stress without hostility, self-blame, or self-isolation may be helping protect their cardiovascular health, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Fat: Okay for Kids?
-
Health Tip: Talking to Your Doctor About How to Lose Weight
Suggestions to get you started Read More > -
Junk-food cravings could start before birth
Pleasure chemicals released in the brain may impact a fetus' brain, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Total cholesterol, HDL levels good predictors of heart risk
Researchers say measuring patients' total cholesterol and good cholesterol is enough to predict their heart disease risk. Read Summary > -
Better Brain Tumor Help
Being treated for a brain tumor can be a truly harrowing experience. After surviving surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, many patients are administered steroids that can cause a host of unwanted side effects. Now, researchers say there is a new option for treating brain tumors that's safer, easier and better than before. Read More > -
Health Tip: Warning Signs of Dehydration
Don't ignore these symptoms Read More > -
Health Tip: Heat Cramps Shouldn't Be Ignored
Here's what to do if you get them Read More > -
Health, Not Beauty, Motivates Women to Work Out
-
FDA: Red yeast rice cholesterol products unsafe
The FDA says three red yeast rice products contain an unauthorized compound that can interact badly with other medications or cause muscle weakness or kidney damage. Read Summary > -
Very low cholesterol may boost cancer risk
People who achieve very low cholesterol levels from taking statins may be slightly boosting their cancer risk, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Statins may help kids' cholesterol condition
Familial hypercholesterolemia causes highly elevated bad cholesterol levels from birth and can lead to atherosclerosis, heart disease, and premature heart attack. Read Summary > -
Advertising Affects Children's Food Choices
-
Air pollution boosts cholesterol's risks
Researchers say diesel fumes combine with high cholesterol to increase people's risk of heart attack and stroke. Read Summary > -
Put Some Muscle in Your Workout!
-
Caffeine and Exercise Combo may Prevent Skin Cancer
-
Addiction combo med may treat obesity
The medication is currently in Phase III clinical trials. Read Summary > -
Study: Obesity may be contagious
Researchers say the contagion is a social factor and may also work for weight loss. Read Summary > -
New statin makes strides in clinical trials
Early results showed the statin to be safe and tolerable for 36 male patients. Read Summary > -
Some doctors unconcerned when patients don't lower cholesterol
Six out of ten doctors were satisfied if less than half of patients reached their cholesterol goals. Read Summary > -
Soft Drinks Linked to Increased Heart Disease Risk
-
Low-carb diets combat metabolic syndrome
Weight loss from a low-carb diet led to weight loss, decreased insulin resistance and improved blood sugar. Read Summary > -
Could Lowering Your Cholesterol Cause Caner?
-
Study: Diet soda linked to heart, diabetes risks
All soft drinks--diet and non-diet--boost the risk of metabolic syndrome, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Prevent an Overuse Injury
Listen to your body while running Read More > -
Health Tip: Bicycle Safety for Children
Teach your kids rules of the road Read More > -
Blood test may warn of dangerous belly fat
RBP4 levels are associated with increased cardiovascular risks. Read Summary > -
Study: Mental-health issues lead to poor medical care
Patients with psychiatric problems receive less medication treatment, fewer diagnostic procedures, and less incidence of surgical intervention than patients who do not have mental-health trouble, experts say. Read Summary > -
Triglyceride, heart-risk link could change cholesterol testing
Researchers found that current cholesterol tests may not identify patients with the highest triglyceride levels and thus the highest heart risk. Read Summary > -
Breast Cancer Survivors Need Not Increase Fruits and Vegetables Intake
-
Researchers find link between asthma and obesity
Protein PMCH may be the link in the cycle of inflammation, asthma, and obesity. Read Summary > -
Ball Throwing May Benefit Kids' Shoulders
-
Health Tip: Feeding a Child Athlete
Make sure the youngster is getting the right foods and liquids Read More > -
Study: WelChol controls both cholesterol and diabetes
Patients with Type 2 diabetes significantly reduced their glucose and cholesterol levels by taking WelChol in a new study. Read Summary > -
Scientists discover substance that lowers cholesterol, triglycerides
Researchers at Lexicon Pharmaceuticals say a newly discovered antibody may lead to new medications for cardiovascular disease. Read Summary > -
Acomplia may prevent, treat fatty liver disease
Fatty liver disease is common among obese individuals. Read Summary > -
Fat-fighting meds of the future
Over-the-counter Alli may have competition from other weight-loss meds in the near future. Read Summary > -
Obese children face stigma, unhappiness as young as age 3
Unrelenting social pressures give obese kids a quality of life comparable to cancer patients, experts say. Read Summary > -
Save Your Sight, Eat Right!
-
Children Looking to Enhance Performance too
-
Secret Injuries: Retired Footballers Suffer Depression
-
Good fat may Lower Prostate Cancer Risk
-
Dissolving Prostate Cancer
For decades, ultrasounds have been used to determine the sex, size, and vitality of unborn children. Now, the same technology is being used to stop prostate cancer in its tracks. Read More > -
Health Tip: Choose Your Chocolate Carefully
It's not all heart-healthy Read More > -
Study: Chronic illness high among poor kids
A Harvard researcher who worked on a recent study of chronic illnesses said these conditions are affecting children from poor families more than children from more affluent families. Read Summary > -
High cholesterol linked to tick-related disease
The bacteria that causes human granulocytic anaplasmosis (HGA) thrives in high-cholesterol environments, researchers say. Read Summary > -
High-dose statins may benefit older patients
In a recent study, older patients who took a higher dose of the statin Lipitor reduced their bad cholesterol more than those who took a lower dose. Read Summary > -
Drugmaker pulls Acomplia application
The FDA was scheduled to make a decision on the drug in late July but in June a panel recommended against approval. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Picnic Precautions
Handle food properly to prevent illness Read More > -
Some insomniacs may have unhealthy diets
A small study has found that people with insomnia may be less likely to eat at home, which led to eating out more frequently. Read Summary > -
Study: Chronic illness becoming more common among kids
A study found kids with a chronic illness has increased four times compared to when their parents were kids. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Is Lipitor causing frequent urination?
Dr. Peter Gott responds to a reader who was given Lipitor after suffering a heart attack and later developed problems with frequent urination. Read Summary > -
Lipitor may lower heart, stroke risks in Type 2 diabetics
People with Type 2 diabetes who had recently suffered a stroke cut their heart and stroke risks by taking Lipitor, researchers say. Read Summary > -
High-carb diet boosts heart disease risk
Diets high in processed, carbohydrate-rich foods may increase a woman's risk for developing heart disease, especially if they are overweight, a new study suggests. Read Summary > -
Study: Splitting statin tablets cuts costs for patients, health plans
In pill-splitting, patients cut approved larger-dose tablets in half to double the amount of smaller dose pills they receive, lowering their overall per-pill cost. Read Summary > -
Obesity reduces risk of dying after a heart attack
But obesity often helps cause the heart attack in the first place, experts say, which cancels out the protective effect. Read Summary > -
FDA panel rejects Acomplia
The panel is concerned about Acomplia's link to suicidal thoughts and behavior. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Getting Antioxidants
Where to find them Read More > -
Animal study may explain Zetia's effectiveness
Zetia works in both the intestines and the liver, researchers found. Read Summary > -
Vytorin reduces diabetics' heart risks better than Lipitor, experts say
Vytorin--sold as Inegy overseas--is a combination of Zocor and Zetia. Read Summary > -
Diet pills may increase unhealthy behavior
Part of the problem may lie in the difference between how patients see a 'drug' and how they see a 'supplement'. Read Summary > -
Study: Generic statins effective for most cholesterol patients
Most statins users in the low to moderate risk categories can get the same benefits from generic statins as they would from brandname statins, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Study: Vytorin better than Crestor for lowering cardiovascular risks
Vytorin, which is sold as Inegy overseas, is a combination of Zetia and Zocor. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Suggestions for Stretching
An important part of any workout Read More > -
Statins, heart meds may protect brain from Alzheimer's
Statins, anti-clotting meds, and antihypertensives may help protect the brain, new research suggests. Read Summary > -
Judge rules in favor of generic Lipitor
Pfizer, which makes Lipitor, says it will appeal this decision to protect its patent on the cholesterol-lowering med. Read Summary > -
Exercise may slightly boost good cholesterol
A low level of good HDL cholesterol is a risk factor of cardiovascular disease. Read Summary > -
Experts: Statins safe for users, effective against heart disease
Though many meds are prompting warnings about unforeseen side effects, statins continue to be both safe and effective, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Seniors, Listen to Your Bodies
How to know if you've done too much Read More > -
Health Tip: Sensible Ways to Shed Pounds
Missing meals is a bad idea, AARP says Read More > -
Unauthorized generic Acomplia may not work the same
Several Indian companies have released generic formulas but there is currently no way to tell if the active ingredients are the same. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Zocor+niacin ER vs. Lipitor for high cholesterol
Call for adults with Type II hyperlipidemia or mixed dyslipidemia to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Study: Statins may protect men from lung cancer
And the longer patients take the cholesterol-lowering meds, the greater the protective effect, research suggests. Read Summary > -
Guide could help diabetics take statins as prescribed
Statins can reduce the risk of heart disease, a common complicating factor with diabetes. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: New obesity med's effects in at-risk adults
Call for adults ages 18 years to 70 years who are overweight and who also have high cholesterol or high blood pressure to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Trial begins for new obesity drug
Trodusquemine is designed to aid weight loss by controlling appetite and regulating insulin. Read Summary > -
Some experts doubt Acomplia's effects
Acomplia (rimonabant) went on the market in the United Kingdom last summer, and experts question some of the claims made about the med. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Sick After Swimming
How to reduce your risk of recreational water illness Read More > -
Clinical trial: Combo med's effects on obese hypertension patients
Call for adults ages 40 years and older who have abdominal obesity and hypertension to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Obesity may cause bone loss, researcher says
The greater the fat mass, the lower the bone mass, new research suggests. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Swim, Swim, Swim
It's a great form of low-impact exercise Read More > -
Clinical trial: Omacor+Lipitor in patients with high triglyceride levels
Call for adults ages 18 years to 79 years who have high triglyceride levels to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Some insurers offer incentives for patients to switch statins
Huge discounts, free samples used to get patients to switch from Lipitor to generic Zocor, a New York newspaper says. Read Summary > -
Study: Statins lower risk of prostate cancer
A study in Finland suggests that men who take statins may lower their risk of developing the disease. Read Summary > -
Study: Many with hypertension don't follow heart-healthy diet
Cost, availability of health foods were major factors behind continued unhealthy eating, experts say. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Is butter or margarine the healthier choice?
The answer isn't as simple as people would like it to be, health experts say. Read Summary > -
Alcohol During Pregnancy Linked to Extreme Prematurity
-
Alli not a miracle pill, drugmaker stresses
GlaxoSmithKline wants patients to understand what results they can expect from the pill. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: The Benefits of a Multivitamin
Some people need one more than others Read More > -
Clinical trial: Caduet vs. Norvasc in high-risk cardiac patients
Call for adults who have hypertension and three additional cardiovascular risk factors to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Police uncover counterfeit Acomplia ring
European police raided several illegal manufacturers in late April. Read Summary > -
Diabetes med may fight breast cancer
PTP1B enzyme inhibitors appear to slow or stop breast cancer tumor growth. Read Summary > -
Insulin levels may determine dieting success
People who secrete high levels of insulin lose more weight on a low-carb, high-fat diet than a low-fat diet. Read Summary > -
Mercury Preservative Doesn't Up Autism Risk
-
Could Fish and Vitamin D Prevent Macular Degeneration?
-
Type of Fiber Counts in Diabetes Prevention
-
Women less likely to get treatment after heart tests
Women are less likely to be given further testing, medication, or treatments to unblock heart arteries, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Co-payments cut statin use
Researchers say that their results point to a need for statins to be fully covered by health insurance plans. Read Summary > -
Vytorin a good source of niacin, expert says
A reader asks Dr. Peter Gott how to incorporate niacin into a cholesterol-lowering regimen. Read Summary > -
It's what you eat, not how fast, that counts
Teens tend to eat the same number of calories regardless of how the food is portioned out to them. Read Summary > -
Meridia may not work for obese teens
Teens put on a low-calorie diet did not appear to derive benefit from being given Meridia. Read Summary > -
Experts: Alli won't work without lifestyle changes
For every 10 pounds a person can lose with diet and exercise, Alli can help raise the number to 15 pounds. Read Summary > -
Lipitor, other statins may prevent second strokes
French researchers have found that the cholesterol-lowering meds reduce the risk of a second stroke and improve the outcomes of stroke patients. Read Summary > -
Pistachios may help stabilize blood sugar
Eating an ounce may help blunt the effect of high-carbohydrate foods. Read Summary > -
100 Percent Juice Not Linked to Overweight Kids
-
Clinical trial: Crestor+new med in patients with dyslipidemia
Call for adults with dyslipidemia to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Dads' Parenting Styles Linked to Childhood Obesity
-
Health Tip: Drink Lots of Water
Why it's so important Read More > -
Mom was right: Eating soup cuts calorie intake
Eating a low-calorie soup can help you consume fewer calories at mealtime. Read Summary > -
FDA warns of counterfeit Xenical
Some patients have been given inactive meds while others have gotten the wrong medication. Read Summary > -
New medication mimics exercise
Experts say the future of weight-loss drugs may lie in increasing metabolism. Read Summary > -
Once-a-Year Drug Lowers Fracture Risk
-
Pistachios may cut cholesterol
A new study funded by the California Pistachio Commission has found that the nuts lower cholesterol and lipoproteins that signal cardiovascular risk. Read Summary > -
Pistachios Can Fight Heart Disease
-
Experts provide guidance on statins, Plavix, and stents
Reporters at HealthDay News talk to experts about the recent studies about statins and stents and what the results could mean for heart patients. Read Summary > -
Study: Lipitor beats generic Zocor for lowering hospital costs
Lipitor--which does not have a generic formula--reduced heart-disease patients' hospital costs more than generic Zocor. Read Summary > -
Most Doctors Get Gifts From Drug Companies
-
Medicine's Next Big Thing: Healing ACL Tears
-
Health Tip: Prevent a Pulled Hamstring
Stretch properly before exercise Read More > -
Study says Xenical reduces heart risk
Patients who took the drug lowered their blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Combination of meds to control obesity
Call for adults who are obese to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Higher doses of statins not worth the cost for some, experts say
But patients with acute heart problems do benefit enough from higher doses of statins to justify the cost, researchers say. Read Summary > -
TV Food Advertisements and Childhood Obesity
-
Less Salt is Good for Your Heart
-
Obese people at much higher risk for sleep apnea
A recent study found that 91 percent of people waiting for weight-loss surgery had sleep apnea but only 19 percent had been diagnosed with the problem. Read Summary > -
Study: Wholegrain oats reduce cholesterol
A review of 10 clinical trials shows ample evidence that wholegrain oats lower cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Statins, other meds don't mix with grapefruit
Grapefruit can cause adverse reactions with common cholesterol, blood-pressure, and heart meds. Read Summary > -
New combo cholesterol med heads to the FDA
The new cholesterol med combines Niaspan and Zocor. Read Summary > -
Report: Prices for top Part D drugs grew by 9 percent last year
A consumer health organization reports that prices for the most frequently prescribed drugs in the Medicare drug plan increased four times the latest inflation rate and almost three times the increase in this year's cost-of-living adjustment in Social Security over the last year. Read Summary > -
Men, boys lack options to treat eating disorders
The diet industry is predominantly female focused, experts say. Read Summary > -
Childhood obesity linked to ear infections
Experts disagree on how the two conditions are related. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Dining While on the Road
Good eating habits can travel with you Read More > -
Leg pain could mean heart danger, expert says
Nearly a quarter of of people who have leg pain due to PAD will be dead in five years, expert say, mostly due to heart attacks or other heart problems. Read Summary > -
Statins linked to lower risk of infection
Statins may help fight sepsis, the leading cause of death in non-coronary intensive care units in the United States. Read Summary > -
Xenical linked to gallstones
Thirty seven cases of gallstones have been reported to the FDA by patients taking Xenical. Read Summary > -
New combo med may be more effective than Vytorin
The new med will combine Zetia and Lipitor. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Symptoms of 'The Bends'
When skin divers surface too quickly Read More > -
U.S. cancer deaths decline, but lifestyle factors worsen
People are still not exercising and eating healthy foods. Read Summary > -
Experts: Gaining weight increases asthma risk
Obese people are 50 percent more likely to develop adult-onset asthma. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Crestor and Lipitor's effects on urinary protein
Call for adults who have protein in their urine and high cholesterol to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Can expressing love lower cholesterol?
Researchers have found that people who express their feelings about loved ones may be helping their heart. Read Summary > -
New good-cholesterol med has mixed effects on arteries
CSL-111 works my mimicking the action of good cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Coumadin and Cymbalta don't mix
The dangerous drug interaction is not listed on either meds' prescribing information, one reader warns. Read Summary > -
Weight-loss surgery may decrease diabetes risk
Patients had normal blood-glucose levels regardless of how much weight they lost. Read Summary > -
Moms-to-be Need Their Vitamins
-
Mediterranean Diet Protects Against Respiratory Allergies
-
Health Tip: Good vs. Bad Cholesterol
What's the difference? Read More > -
Asthma Rates 50-Percent Higher in Those Overweight
-
Good cholesterol med continues to disappoint
Researchers find that the experimental med torcetrapib does not slow plaque buildup in the arteries. Read Summary > -
Fish helps statins protect the heart
Omega-3 fatty acids, which are typically found in fish and fish oils, may boost the heart protection of statins. Read Summary > -
Sports May Not Benefit Everyone
-
A Good use for Carbon Monoxide
-
Hard Exercise Leads to Trimmer Boys
-
Get Moving to Ward Off Arthritis
-
Health Tip: Your Child's Development
Make sure he gets enough exercise Read More > -
Do not use Miaozi diet capsules, Health Canada advises
The diet aid contains a prescription appetite suppressant. Read Summary > -
Trans Fats up Heart Disease Risk
-
Hip-replacement complications more common in obese women
Complications such as infection, dislocations, and surgical revisions have been linked to obesity in a new study. Read Summary > -
Cancer Prevention Gets Juicy!
-
Health Tip: Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy
They could harm your developing baby Read More > -
Patients with artery disease face immediate risks, study finds
Experts say that their findings stress the importance of starting statins and blood-pressure meds sooner. Read Summary > -
At-risk kids should take statins, Heart Association says
At-risk kids include those with familial hypercholesterolemia, diabetes, or a family history of cardiovascular disease or early heart attacks and stroke. Read Summary > -
Early use of Lipitor, Crestor boosts angioplasty outcomes
Patients who are given the cholesterol-lowering meds showed better results after angioplasty, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Fitting a Bike Helmet
Protect yourself or your child from injury Read More > -
Clinical trial: Caduet versus Norvasc for hypertension and high cholesterol
Call for adults ages 21 and older who have high blood pressure and high cholesterol and who already take Norvasc to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Fighting a Killer Infection: MRSA
-
Belly fat may spur diseases
Belly fat secretes an inflammatory molecule that increases disease risks. Read Summary > -
Less Activity = Fatter Kids
-
Health Tip: Shop Healthy
Spend more time in the fruits and veggies aisle Read More > -
Health Tip: Prevent Sports Injuries
Sports should be safe and fun Read More > -
Obesity surgery may lead to memory problems for some
Patients who vomited a lot after surgery are more prone to the condition. Read Summary > -
Chemical found in soaps, plastics linked to obesity
Chemical class appears to lower testosterone levels and encourage weight gain in men. Read Summary > -
Xenical, Alli latest of dangerous weight-loss meds, doc says
Weight-loss aids have been dangerous historically, says one physician. Read Summary > -
Health Tip: Prevent Obesity in Your Child
Suggestions to keep him healthy Read More > -
Obesity Surgery can Cause Serious Neurological Condition
-
Health Tip: Avoid Fad Diets
They can be unhealthy, and sometimes downright dangerous Read More > -
Study: Zocor, other statins lower blood pressure
Patients in a recent study lowered their blood pressure by taking the cholesterol-lowering meds. Read Summary > -
Atkins diet wins first place in nationwide study
Cutting out breads, pasta, and sugar may help women shed more pounds than counting calories or fat grams. Read Summary > -
FDA approves Lipitor for new uses
Lipitor can now be used for a variety of cardiovascular risks, the FDA says. Read Summary > -
Extra pounds, smoking confirmed GERD risk factors
Researchers studied twins in order to separate genetics from other risk factors. Read Summary > -
Could certain foods replace Vytorin?
Joe and Teresa Graedon of The People's Pharmacy respond to a reader's question about foods versus Vytorin. Read Summary > -
Study: Crestor best at boosting good cholesterol
In a comparison of Pravachol, Lipitor, and Crestor, Crestor raised good cholesterol the most. Read Summary > -
Crestor, Zetia combo cuts bad cholesterol by 70 percent
The 70-percent reduction in bad cholesterol is the largest drop ever seen in a clinical trial, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Serotonin poisoning from Effexor, other meds often overlooked
Serotonin syndrome can be fatal if not recognized and treated properly, experts say. Read Summary > -
Body aches have many causes--and treatments
Experts at the Mayo Clinic offer a list of common pain-related conditions, their causes, and their treatments. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Vitamin may be an alternative to Lipitor
Dr. Peter Gott offers an alternative to a reader whose husband is resistant to taking Lipitor. Read Summary > -
Lipitor more effective than generic Zocor, study finds
The finding may call into question the practice of switching patients to cheaper generic statins, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Q&A: The facts on Alli
Sally Squires answers questions about diet drug Alli. Read Summary > -
Why weight-loss efforts fail
Being realistic about weight loss, along with decreased sugar consumption and increased exercise were among the top reasons for success. Read Summary > -
Sweat may Harbor Hepatitis B
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Garlic doesn't lower cholesterol, researchers say
"Pills and herbs can't undo the damage of unhealthy eating," one researcher said. Read Summary > -
Strenuous Physical Activity can Lower Breast Cancer Risk
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Generic Lipitor blocked again
Lipitor is the world's top-selling medication. Read Summary > -
Scientists discover possible link between cholesterol, Type 2 diabetes
The study in genetically engineered mice may have uncovered how cholesterol contributes to Type 2 diabetes. Read Summary > -
Alli will work, but only with diet changes
Doctor says that the pill's side effects are a great deterrent to eating badly. Read Summary > -
6 promising weight-loss supplements, 6 to avoid
Editors at Health.com have compiled a list of supplements that may and may not work. Read Summary > -
Healthy women can lower stroke risk by lowering cholesterol
Researchers say the results are a wake-up call for people to start paying attention to their cholesterol levels, even if they're feeling healthy. Read Summary > -
Older stents may be safer than drug-coated stents and Plavix
Newer drug-coated stents are no better at preventing heart attacks and death than older, cheaper stents, experts say. Read Summary > -
11 ways to take charge of your health
Doctors say the easiest way to manage your health is to become an active participant. Read Summary > -
FDA delays decision on Acomplia
The Food and Drug Administration will not make a decision on the drug until July 2007. Read Summary > -
Generics boost U.S. statin prescriptions, report suggests
Experts say the increase shows that generics play an important role in making treatment available to more people. Read Summary > -
Anorexia can lead to osteoporosis
Adolescence is both the time when bones are growing the fastest and when many teen girls begin dieting to keep their weight down. Read Summary > -
Boosting good cholesterol as important as lowering bad, study finds
Artery plaque is associated with a number of cardiovascular problems, including heart attack. Read Summary > -
Experimental chewing gum could treat obesity
Gum and nasal spray may contain a hormone that controls feelings of fullness. Read Summary > -
Cannabis drug may help fight obesity
Studying the effects of marijuana-induced hunger may lead researchers to new diet pills. Read Summary > -
FDA approves over-the-counter Xenical
Drug works by blocking one quarter of dietary fat which is then passed in the stool. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Zetia+Lipitor versus Lipitor in adults with high cholesterol
Call for adults ages 18 to 79 who have high cholesterol that is not controlled by taking Lipitor alone to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Crestor slows heart-valve degeneration, study suggests
The study's results suggest that statins might help patients delay the need for valve-replacement surgery. Read Summary > -
Diachrome helps cholesterol metabolism in Type 2 diabetics
Diachrome is a nutrient-based therapy that combines a form of chromium and a B-vitamin. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Does Vytorin cause leg cramps?
Joe and Teresa Graedon of The People's Pharmacy respond to a reader's question about Vytorin's link to leg pain. Read Summary > -
Study says kids who eat more fats weigh less
High levels of unsaturated fat and low levels of sugar kept some children thin. Read Summary > -
Survey says binge eating tops eating disorders
Bing eating is more common than either anorexia or bulemia, survey says. Read Summary > -
Exercise a Wash for Knee Pain
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Scarless Hernia Repair
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Repairing Ribs
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Healing Tendonitis With Blood
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Move Over Malaria!
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What's the skinny on Acomplia?
Acomplia blocks a a brain receptor that is responsible for a hunger signal. Read Summary > -
Study raises questions about weight-loss meds
Researchers say there is no way to know if the long-term effects of weight-loss drugs lower cardiovascular risks. Read Summary > -
Lipitor, Concerta among drugs that bar some from health coverage
Health plans defend the practice by saying the restrictions keep premiums down. Read Summary > -
Study: Healthy women, older men shouldn't take statins
Taking statins doesn't reduce the risk of heart attack and may put these patients at risk for statin side effects, researchers say. Read Summary > -
St. John's wort and some meds don't mix
St. John's wort is an over-the-counter herbal supplement that can be effective against mild forms of depression. Read Summary > -
Statin use linked to Parkinson's disease
But experts urge caution about the findings until further research is completed. Read Summary > -
Trans-fat replacements may lower good cholesterol, raise diabetes risk
Researchers say that it's the structure of the altered fats and not the fats themselves that cause the health problems. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Welchol's use in children with genetic high cholesterol
Call for children and teens ages 10 through 17 who have genetic high cholesterol to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Some Medicare Part D users pay more for Plavix, study finds
Other government agencies save patients money by negotiating with drug companies for lower prices, the report found. Read Summary > -
New drug may help treat inherited cholesterol disease
People with FH can get heart disease from high cholesterol before the age of 20 and generally do not live past age 30. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Effects of Crestor and Lipitor in adults with diabetes
Call for adults with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes who have protein in their urine and high cholesterol to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Liver sugars linked to high triglyceride levels
High triglyceride levels contribute to the buildup of plaque in arteries that contributes to heart attacks and strokes. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Zetia+Lipitor versus Lipitor alone in people with high cholesterol
Call for adults ages 18 to 79 who have high cholesterol to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Statins help Great Britain cut heart-related deaths
Great Britain is one of the highest spending countries in Europe for preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases. Read Summary > -
Statins do not reduce colorectal cancer risk, new study says
Previous studies had found a link between statin use and reduced colorectal cancer risk. Read Summary > -
Is a Zocor+Lipitor combo too much?
Dr. Peter Gott responds to a reader's question about feelings of lightheadedness that could be associated with statin use. Read Summary > -
Statins may reduce risk of advanced prostate cancer
Cholesterol-lowering drugs do not protect users from prostate cancer overall, researchers say, but the drugs may reduce the risk of the advanced form of the disease. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Use of Zetia by HIV-infected adults
Call for adults who are HIV-infected, take anti-HIV medications, and have high cholesterol to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Study: Pancreatitis risk low in Crestor, other statin users
Pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas, is most often caused by gallstone complications or alcohol comsumption. Read Summary > -
Longevity gene delays Alzheimer's
People with the CETP W gene live longer and have less chance of Alzheimer's. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Crestor's use in children and teens with high cholesterol
Call for children and teens ages 10-17 who have high cholesterol to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Vytorin better than Lipitor in people with Type 2 diabetes
People with Type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol have an especially high risk for developing heart disease. Read Summary > -
Avoiding "holiday heart"
Emergency rooms often see people with "holiday heart" during this festive time of year. Read Summary > -
Researchers uncover process behind plaque rupture in arteries
Arterial plaque rupture can lead to blood clots that cause heart attacks and strokes. Read Summary > -
Acomplia may help control blood sugar, cholesterol
Acomplia improved several factors that heighten heart disease risk. Read Summary > -
Statins like Crestor help the healthy too
People who don't have heart problems or high cholesterol may benefit from taking statins. Read Summary > -
Q&A: What are statin liver tests checking?
Dr. Paul Donohue answers a reader's question about liver-function tests. Read Summary > -
Raising good cholesterol still a good idea, experts say
Though torcetrapib failed in clinical trials, finding ways to raise good cholesterol is still a good idea, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Lipitor, Norvasc cut heart-attack risk within 90 days, study finds
The study was sponsored by Pfizer, which makes both Lipitor and Norvasc. Read Summary > -
Patients risk heart attacks when they stop taking statins
People stop taking statins because they don't feel any improvement from taking them or because they're afraid of side effects. Read Summary > -
Drug-coated stents do not raise death risk, says FDA
The FDA advisory panel said that the drug-coated stents' benefits outweigh concerns over their use. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Effects of Lipitor and Crestor on renal function
Call for adults who have protein in their urine and high cholesterol to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Experimental drug reduces niacin's facial flushing in new study
Many patients stop taking niacin because of facial flushing, even though niacin raises good cholesterol levels. Read Summary > -
Skin test for cholesterol goes to FDA
The skin test, called Prevu, would allow doctors to find patients' cholesterol levels without a blood test. Read Summary > -
Drugmaker abandons heart drug after deaths, heart problems
Torcetrapib had been a promising new cholesterol and heart treatment. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Coreg vs. Toprol on lipid levels in people with hypertension
Call for adults ages 18 to 80 with a history of hypertension to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Analysis: Hodgkin's survivors need cholesterol-lowering treatment
People who survive Hodgkin's disease in their 20s are three times more likely to develop heart disease later in life. Read Summary > -
Drugmaker makes Crestor, Nexium cheaper for Medicare Part D users
The new program is specifically designed for people in Medicare Part D who may have trouble affording their medications. Read Summary > -
Children may need statins too
Usually given only to adults, statins may need to be prescribed to children to cut their risk of heart problems later in life. Read Summary > -
WelChol makes Zetia/Zocor combo work better, study finds
Patients who added WelChol to the cholesterol-lowering combo had lower LDL (bad) cholesterol than people who took the combo alone. Read Summary > -
New cholesterol drug boosts Zetia's effects in clinical trials
The new cholesterol drug AEGR-733 is still in clinical trials. Read Summary > -
Combo helps patients who have muscle problems with other statins
As many as 10 percent of the 20 million people who use statins every year have to stop taking them because of muscle problems. Read Summary > -
Experimental lupus drugs may help hardening of the arteries
Researchers hope their study opens up new treatments for atherosclerosis, which is caused by cholesterol build-up. Read Summary > -
Chocoholics show scientists how chocolate can help the heart
Dark chocolate contains high levels of antioxidants called flavonoids, which may help prevent blood from clotting. Read Summary > -
Zocor, other statins offer some help to heart patients with diabetes
Researchers say their study shows that more research is needed to find ways to help heart patients who have diabetes. Read Summary > -
More people should be taking statins, British experts say
British experts say putting people in high-risk categories on statins would help prevent even more heart attacks and strokes. Read Summary > -
More evidence of link between high cholesterol and Alzheimer's
High cholesterol may intensify the brain's inflammatory response, which can spur the onset of Alzheimer's disease. Read Summary > -
Diabetes, hypertension, obesity increase risk of Alzheimer's
Dr. John Morris, an Alzheimer's disease expert, discusses conditions related to the development of Alzheimer's disease. Read Summary > -
Drugmaker makes Crestor, Toprol more available for the uninsured
The new eligibility requirements go into effect on November 15th. Read Summary > -
Lipitor combo drug raises good cholesterol--and blood pressure
Experts say the potentially serious side effect could block torcetrapib from receiving FDA approval. Read Summary > -
Plant sterols in orange juice reduce cholesterol, heart risks
A new study has found that the supplemented orange juice reduced markers of cardiovascular disease. Read Summary > -
Statins like Zocor, Lipitor may slow damage in smokers' lungs
Researchers believe it is the anti-inflammatory effects of statins--and not their cholesterol-lowering abilities--that is responsible for these new benefits. Read Summary > -
FDA approves generic Colestid
Colestid is used to lower overall serum cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels. Read Summary > -
Chocolate-chip cookie lowers cholesterol
One brand of cookie may reduce LDL ("bad") cholesterol by 10 percent. Read Summary > -
Hypertension patients, statin users should avoid some natural remedies
Reporters at Consumer Reports give report-card like grades to six popular herbs and supplements. Read Summary > -
Soy may help reduce artery hardening and increase heart health
Though artery hardening is a natural part of aging, conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and diabetes increase people's risk. Read Summary > -
Vytorin beats Crestor at reducing bad cholesterol
Vytorin is sold as Inegy overseas. Read Summary > -
Patients aren't warned about the dangers of triglycerides, survey finds
Elevated triglycerides are linked to serious illnesses like coronary artery disease, kidney disease, and pancreatitis. Read Summary > -
Researchers find way to control LDL cholesterol without liver damage
The discovery could lead to the development of drugs that are more effective and more easily tolerated than statins. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Caduet's effects on hypertension and high cholesterol
Call for adults ages 21 and older who have been diagnosed with hypertension and high cholesterol and who are not being treated for the conditions with medications to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
New combo heart drug Caduet shows promise in overseas trials
Caduet is designed to simultaneously treat high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Common childhood sports injury can lead to early osteoarthritis
Some athletes with ACL injuries will develop osteoarthritis in their late teens or early twenties. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Niacin plus statins to prevent heart disease
Call for adults ages 45 and older who have established vascular disease and atherogenic dyslipidemia to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Stanol-rich foods like Benecol may boost statins' effects
The stanol-enriched margarine Benecol reduced cholesterol levels more than a margarine that did not contain the ingredient in a recent study. Read Summary > -
Things to consider when deciding if statins are right for you
Statins have been labeled "wonder drugs," but they do have risks. Read Summary > -
Vytorin's new label can say it lowers cholesterol better than Crestor
The FDA has given permission for data comparing the two drugs to be on Vytorin's new label. Read Summary > -
Can pomegranate juice lower cholesterol?
Dr. Paul G. Donohue answers a reader's question about pomegranate juice's effect on cholesterol. Read Summary > -
New statin on the horizon
The new drug, NCX 6560, will have broader heart benefits than current statins, its maker says. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Can I control my cholesterol with diet instead of Lipitor?
Dr. Paul G. Donohue responds to a reader's question about controlling cholesterol with diet alone. Read Summary > -
Crestor+Zetia better than Crestor alone for high-risk patients
A higher percentage of patients were able to lower their "bad" cholesterol to target levels when they took the combo treatment. Read Summary > -
Zocor combination drug delayed
The drugmaker will apply for FDA approval for a new treatment for athereosclerosis in 2007. Read Summary > -
Know what foods to avoid when you're taking medications
Madelyn Fernstrom, director of the Weight Management Center at the University of Pittsburgh, talks about how foods and beverages can affect the way some medications work. Read Summary > -
Price check: Vytorin
A comparison of current prices for Vytorin via online drug distributors. Read Summary > -
Statins may trigger autoimmune hepatitis, report finds
Autoimmune hepatitis occurs when the body's own immune system attacks the liver. Read Summary > -
Web site allows patients to report statin side effects
Researchers hope the site will allow patients to share their experiences with the cholesterol-lowering drugs. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Can herbal diet pills affect how Zocor works?
The People's Pharmacy responds to a reader's question about an herbal supplement. Read Summary > -
Statins reduce dangerous inflammation in metabolic syndrome patients
Inflammation has been linked with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Peanuts help lower cholesterol
Dr. Mitchell Hecht responds to a reader's question about peanuts and their ability to lower cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Analysis: If statins like Crestor, Lipitor and Zocor work, why diet?
Joe and Teresa Graedon discuss things that statin medications can--and cannot--help in patients who do not make lifestyle changes. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Can Crestor reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events?
Call for men aged 50 and older and women aged 60 and older to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Crestor+Zetia reduces life-threatening inflammation
Inflammation has been linked to serious complications like heart attack and stroke. Read Summary > -
Higher doses of Lipitor, other statins, may help high-risk patients
Metabolic syndrome is a condition composed of several cardiovascular risk factors. Read Summary > -
Doctors prefer "two pronged" drugs like Vytorin over regular statins
The survey was backed by Merck and Schering-Plough Corp, which market Vytorin. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Should a 25-year-old take statins to lower cholesterol?
Pharmacist Richard Harkness discusses the appropriate use of statins in young adults. Read Summary > -
Study: Olive oil counteracts heart disease by boosting cell defenses
Olive oil has a high content of monosaturated fatty acids and antioxidants like phenolic compounds, vitamin E, and beta-carotene. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Does CoQ10 prevent statin-related muscle problems?
CoQ10 is a vitamin-like supplement that some claim helps prevent statin-related myopathy. Read Summary > -
Taking statins may reveal undiagnosed muscle diseases
Researchers suggest that doctors be aware that statins may bring undiagnosed muscle disorders to light. Read Summary > -
Study: Omacor works with Zocor without reducing the statin's effects
Omacor is the first omega-3 fatty acid approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Read Summary > -
Video: Lipitor helps prevent a second stroke
Dr. Michael Welch discusses recent findings about Lipitor and second strokes. Read Summary > -
Acne drug Accutane raises cholesterol, study finds
Accutane is currently the most effective anti-medicine on the market. Read Summary > -
Court ruling may speed availability of generic Lipitor
Pfizer says it will correct a "technical fault" in the patent and appeal the court's decision. Read Summary > -
Australia sees jump in claims of Lipitor-related memory loss
Health officials suspect publicity surrounding a book about Lipitor may be the cause of the reports. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Is it safe to take fish oil with statins to lower cholesterol?
A reader asks pharmacist Richard Harkness about fish-oil supplements and statins. Read Summary > -
Patience--and a Web browser--can help save money on meds
A financial columnist advises patients on the sometimes large differences in drug prices. Read Summary > -
Home DNA tests for diabetes, high cholesterol may not offer what they claim
The tests claim to examine DNA samples to diagnose how likely a person is to develop diabetes, cancer, and other diseases. Read Summary > -
Zocor, Crestor users won't have to change statins to take torcetrapib
Company abandons rule that required patients taking Zocor, Crestor, and other statins to switch to Lipitor to reap the new drug's benefits. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Comparison of Zocor and torcetrapib/Lipitor combination
Call for adults with high cholesterol to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Mediterranean food beats a low-fat diet in reducing heart risks
The "Med diet" has been linked to less heart disease and protection against some cancers. Read Summary > -
Hypertension/high cholesterol combo often goes untreated
Doctors in California have found that few patients with both conditions receive treatment. Read Summary > -
Doctors in Britain ask for all foods to list trans fat content on labels
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration asked for a similar move in January 2006. Read Summary > -
Cholesterol drug Niaspan may soon have "low flush" formula
The drug's maker hopes to have the new formula on the market in early 2007. Read Summary > -
Study: Diabetics' cholesterol troubles need combination of drugs
People with diabetes often have a specific lipid profile that one drug cannot deal with effectively. Read Summary > -
Study: Cholesterol drug helps lower glucose levels too
WelChol is a cholesterol-lowering drug that works differently from statins like Lipitor and Crestor because it is not absorbed in the liver and kidneys. Read Summary > -
Analysis: Can a person die from a broken heart?
"The most difficult job for a cardiologist is not picking the right medication but instilling in someone a passion for their life," Dr. Guarnari says. Read Summary > -
Teens may need cholesterol-lowering medicines too
"You can't tell by looking at a kid how healthy or unhealthy they are on the inside," one mother states. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Can statins cause muscle pain in just one joint?
Dr. Peter Gott answers a reader's question about statins and joint pain. Read Summary > -
Pfizer: "Good" cholesterol drug can be taken without Lipitor
Pfizer had previously said that torcetrapib would only be available as a combination treatment with Lipitor. Read Summary > -
New weight-loss drug may help people with high cholesterol
The drug calms food cravings by blocking signals in the brain. Read Summary > -
Study: Vytorin more effective than Crestor alone
Crestor's maker responds that when Crestor is combined with Zetia, it works better than Vytorin. Read Summary > -
Breast cancer drug may be unsafe for women at risk for heart disease
Raloxifene is currently sold as Evista and is used to treat osteoporosis. Read Summary > -
British courts block generic Lipitor again
Lipitor is the top-selling cholesterol drug, with more than $12 billion in annual sales. Read Summary > -
Lipitor hard to obtain, and more expensive too
Some insurers may allow patients to continue Lipitor at present costs if their doctors can prove they require the brandname drug. Read Summary > -
Two drugmakers work together on combination cholesterol pill
The combination therapy would treat all three major blood lipids at once. Read Summary > -
New generic Zocor could save consumers and insurers billions
By the end of 2006, 57 percent of the drugs dispensed by Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans will be generics. Read Summary > -
Crestor more effective than Lipitor in some ethnic populations
Crestor maker AstraZeneca said the studies were an effort to gather data on nonwhite groups in the United States that are often underrepresented in clinical trials. Read Summary > -
Crestor maker will not lower prices to compete with new generic Zocor
Executives "very confident" that Crestor can co-exist with new generic forms of Zocor. Read Summary > -
ABC News and "World News Tonight" want your thoughts on Zocor
ABC News and "World News Tonight" want to know what viewers think about Zocor and the drug's new generic formulas. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Vytorin+niacin for patients with high cholesterol
Call for adults with high cholesterol to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Brand-name Zocor priced lower than some new generics
Three generic formulas of simvastatin became available in June 2006. Read Summary > -
Pfizer reassures patients about Lipitor's safety
Lipitor is one of the "most extensively studied medicines in history," Pfizer claims, and is safe for consumers. Read Summary > -
'Functional foods' may help lower cholesterol, blood pressure
Red wine, dark chocolate, fish work on some health problems, but experts suggest moderation in some cases. Read Summary > -
Celebrex, Zoloft among drugs experiencing Medicare Part D price rise
Consumer advocacy groups worry Medicare may be able to negotiate better prices for some drugs than private insurers. Read Summary > -
Zetia approved as part of combo therapy for mixed hyperlipidemia
FDA has approved the drug for use with fenofibrate and a cholesterol-healthy diet. Read Summary > -
FDA approves generic Zocor
Zocor was the second most widely prescribed statin in the US in 2005. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Effects of PPAR alpha and atorvastatin in treating high cholesterol
Call for adults with high cholesterol to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Dealing with the gastrointestinal side effects of statins
A British physician offers advice on statins and their gastrointestinal side effects. Read Summary > -
Statins effective in preventing most common type of cataract
Largest reduction in cataract incidence seen in study subjects who did not smoke or suffer from diabetes. Read Summary > -
Study links Crestor with highest reduction in "bad" cholesterol
Combination therapies may be required for patients who are at high risk because of obesity, diabetes, or hypertension. Read Summary > -
Studies find doctors are reluctant to change diabetic patients' drugs
Studies presented at the American Diabetes Association show that doctors often allow blood sugar, hypertension, to go unchecked. Read Summary > -
Lipitor, other statins, may help symptoms of systemic scleroderma
Japanese study finds statin therapy improves circulation, affects blood-vessel formation in systemic scleroderma patients. Read Summary > -
Watchdog group sues KFC for frying chicken in trans fat oils
KFC says trans fat oils are needed to maintain its chicken's "unique taste." Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: comparison of torcetrapib/atorvastatin to simvastatin in treating high cholesterol
Call for adults with high cholesterol to participate in a clinical study. Read Summary > -
Pistachios may help lower cholesterol, study finds
Pistachios' "high monosaturated content" may be linked to their cholesterol-lowering effect, researchers suggest. Read Summary > -
New formula may help cholesterol patients understand the risk behind the numbers
By using "HeartAge"--a number that tells patients how old their hearts are in relation to their actual age--patients may more fully understand high-cholesterol risk. Read Summary > -
British doctors worry U.S.'s "aggressive" cholesterol treatment carries too much risk
British researchers say attaining the new cholesterol levels would require prescribing statins for "most of the Western world's adult population." Read Summary > -
Higher doses of Lipitor may lessen heart-disease risks in some diabetics
Using higher doses of Lipitor to keep LDL cholesterol levels very low may help some diabetics reduce risks of heart disease. Read Summary > -
Study: Statins may help patients with abnormal heart rhythms
Patients with enlarged hearts had "significant reductions" in mortality rates, study finds. Read Summary > -
A drink or two per day cuts heart-disease risks--but only for men
Though the study shows some benefits, researchers are quick to advise that heavy drinking has dangerous health risks. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Could numbness and tingling in the extremities be caused by statins?
Numbness and tingling might be caused by rare statin side effect, pharmacist says. Read Summary > -
Analysis: Start with "combination" therapy for best results
From high blood pressure to diabetes to high cholesterol, starting with drug combinations may be more effective at treating many conditions. Read Summary > -
Lipitor more effective than Zocor for heart-related problems, Pfizer study says
Because of reductions in cardiovascular problems, Lipitor may provide more savings to patients in terms of long-term hospitalizations and surgical costs. Read Summary > -
Does Lipitor cause nightmares?
A recent study finds that atorvastatin may be linked to "extreme" nightmares in some patients. Read Summary > -
Popular supplement does not lower cholesterol, German researchers say
Long thought to have far-reaching health benefits, new study finds policosanol treats high cholesterol the same as placebo. Read Summary > -
Crestor may be more effective than Lipitor or Zocor, clinical trial finds
A clinical trial funded by AstraZeneca has found Crestor more effective at lowering LDL cholesterol than Zocor or Lipitor. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Effectiveness of MK0524A and Zocor on lipids
Call for adults with primary hypercholesterolemia or mixed hyperlipidemia to participate in a clinical study. Read Summary > -
Green tea no help for heart disease, says FDA
Despite popular beliefs of green tea's health benefits, the FDA can find no hard evidence of positive effects. Read Summary > -
U.S. researchers find why grapefruit juice and some drugs don't mix
Study offers hope for new drugs that can take advantage of the compound's effects, as well as grapefruit juice that is medication-safe. Read Summary > -
Statins may lower risks for glaucoma, vision loss from age and diabetes
By increasing blood flow to the eye, statins may offer hope in lowering patients' risks for vision loss associated with some eye disorders. Read Summary > -
Brandname or generic statins? Patients should ask doctors for best option
Though generics must work the same as their brandname formulas, some drugs without generic options might still be doctors' choice. Read Summary > -
Statins--plus healthy habits--recommended to prevent strokes
New prevention guidelines are aimed at more comprehensive lifestyle choices and medical treatments. Read Summary > -
Statins, blood-pressure meds needed early in treating Type 1 diabetes
Study shows that glucose control is not enough in treating diabetes, since heart problems are still a major complication of the disease. Read Summary > -
Statins after a heart attack ineffective, study says
Doctors surprised by study, but most plan to continue prescribing the drugs immediately after cardiac events. Read Summary > -
Seeing is believing: Patients who see artery plaque more likely to stay on statins
Researchers found seeing plaque in arteries motivated patients to stay on diet and exercise programs, as well. Read Summary > -
Scientists discover gene linked to cholesterol absorption
Zebrafish gene linked to cholesterol absorption may offer hope for new cholesterol medications. Read Summary > -
Lipitor, Crestor makers join three other drug companies in swallowing "Bitter Pill" award
Aggressive "pill for every ill" marketing may cause patients harm, patient advocacy group says. Read Summary > -
Aspirin + statins + blood-pressure drugs = less damage from strokes
Only a small number of patients take the drugs in combination, study showed. Read Summary > -
Coffee bad for your heart? New research says opposite is true
Researchers found drip coffee has benefits, but caution against "French press" or unfiltered coffee, dark brews linked to increased LDL ("bad") cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Antibiotics and statins can be a deadly combination
A reader writes in about muscle pain while taking the antibiotic Biaxin and the statin Pravachol. Read Summary > -
Adding WelChol to statin therapy may help reduce cholesterol further
Researchers reviewed the results of studies in which patients taking simvastatin (Zocor), pravastatin (Pravachol), or atorvastatin (Lipitor) added WelChol, an older type of cholesterol drug. Sankyo, maker of WelChol, funded the study. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Safety and efficacy of Zocor and Niacin ER on dyslipidemia
Call for patients to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Liver-function tests may not be necessary for statin users
Researchers say the risk of death from liver failure for statin users is the same as the risk for those not taking statins. Read Summary > -
Zocor may help save lives in the fight against bird flu
Zocor and other statins may be useful in treating bird-flu symptoms until a vaccine is found. Read Summary > -
Not all fast food is created equal when it comes to fat
Researchers have found large differences in the amount of trans-fats found in fast-food samples taken from worldwide chains. Read Summary > -
Prostate cancer linked to high cholesterol
A study of about 3,000 men found that those with this type of cancer were twice as likely to have high cholesterol as those without. Read Summary > -
Researchers create veggies in a pill for high cholesterol patients
Plant sterols found naturally in foods like fruits, vegetables, and seeds have been developed into a pill form that's easier for some high cholesterol patients to take, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Free trial: Crestor 5 mg and 10 mg
The manufacturer is offering a voucher for a free trial of Crestor. Read Summary > -
Exercise helps employees feel better and look more like leaders, study shows
Exercising not only helps employees reduce risk factors but also appear more capable. Read Summary > -
Many foods, drugs don't mix with anti-clotting medication Coumadin
Beware of garlic, ginger, ginseng, and ginkgo biloba, as well as of antifungal and acid-reflux drugs. Read Summary > -
Unions sue Pfizer over off-label marketing of Lipitor
Health-care managers say they have been forced to pay billions to cover "unwarranted" prescriptions. Read Summary > -
Pfizer reviews Lipitor studies, says side effects are infrequent
A company-sponsored review of data from 50 clinical trials shows that atorvastatin (Lipitor) was well-tolerated by older patients, with few problems from dosage increases Read Summary > -
Q&A: Is there any point to taking fish-oil pills?
Nutrition columnist responds to reader concerns about a study that found no conclusive benefit to taking fish oils. Read Summary > -
Beta-glucan fiber lowers cholesterol
A recent study in the Netherlands found fruit drinks containing beta-glucan can lower total cholesterol and LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels. Read Summary > -
Doctors fear patients will choose generic Zocor, Pravachol over healthier lifestyles
Doctors are concerned that the low cost of statins may encourage patients to choose pills over improving their eating and exercise habits. Read Summary > -
If two cholesterol drugs don't work, try adding a third
Diabetics who cannot manage their cholesterol using dual-drug therapy may benefit by adding a third drug. Read Summary > -
Scientists debate benefits of omega-3 fish oils
A review of published studies is not conclusive enough to make recommendations, say researchers. Read Summary > -
Cholesterol, blood-pressure meds help patients with peripheral artery disease
Scientists report the results of one the few studies on this form of atherosclerosis. Read Summary > -
Grape-seed extract lowers blood pressure
Patients with metabolic syndrome, a precursor to heart disease, saw decreases in blood pressure and, in some cases, cholesterol levels. Read Summary > -
Statins: Too little, too late?
A study has shown that people with lifelong low LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels have a much lower risk of suffering a heart attack. Read Summary > -
Magnesium may reduce risk of heart disease, diabetes
The chances of developing metabolic syndrome--a precursor to heart disease and diabetes--are greatly reduced for patients with the highest intake of magnesium. Read Summary > -
Enthusiasm over Crestor tempered by doctors' concerns
Experts cite a lack of studies and concerns about side effects. Read Summary > -
Filtered coffee less likely to increase cholesterol
A review of current medical thought on the relationship between coffee and cholesterol levels. Read Summary > -
Statistical model predicts benefits of adding heart drugs
The tool can measure the years of additional life to be gained by adding medications or devices. Read Summary > -
Price check: Lipitor
A comparison of current prices for Lipitor via online U.S. drug distributors. Read Summary > -
Lipitor reverses arterial plaque too, says Pfizer
Manufacturer claims Lipitor beat Crestor to the punch. Read Summary > -
High doses of Lipitor may help improve kidney function
Pfizer announces new analysis from a previous study. Read Summary > -
New drug increases good cholesterol--but also blood pressure
Patients taking a combination of torcetrapib and Lipitor saw increases in systolic pressure. Read Summary > -
Noni juice may help lower cholesterol
Skepticism surrounds study, which was funded by a noni juice manufacturer. Read Summary > -
Focus shifts to increasing "good" cholesterol
Scientists hope increasing HDL cholesterol levels can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Read Summary > -
Journal watch: Zocor may cause depression in some
Study of elderly patients found some negative effects on mood. Read Summary > -
Price check: Zocor
A comparison of current prices for Zocor via online U.S. drug distributors. Read Summary > -
Vytorin more effective than Zocor, says manufacturer
Analysis of previously published studies shows greater benefit from Vytorin, whose formula includes Zocor, than Zocor alone. Read Summary > -
Vytorin better than Lipitor, says manufacturer
Medication combines Zocor with Zetia. Read Summary > -
Medications underprescribed for patients with heart disease
High cholesterol patients are undertreated for hypertension and vice-versa, says researcher. Read Summary > -
Folic acid, vitamin B12 do not prevent heart disease
A new study refutes the belief that the supplements reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke. Read Summary > -
Price check: Crestor 40 mg
A comparison of current prices for Crestor via online drug distributors. Read Summary > -
High doses of Crestor may reverse heart disease
Cleveland Clinic researchers found a reduction in arterial blockages. Read Summary > -
Plavix plus aspirin may double risk of death for some
Those at risk do not have clogged arteries but have conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Read Summary > -
New Zocor formulation does not increase risk of muscle damage
The combination drug Vytorin, which includes anti-cholesterol drugs Zetia and Zocor, does not result in greater risk of muscle damage than Zocor alone, researchers say. Read Summary > -
Specific diet found to work as well as statins on cholesterol
Eating foods such as almonds, soy protein, plant sterols, and viscous fibers helped lower cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Aspirin effective for more men than once believed
A study has found that more men at risk for heart disease benefit from aspirin therapy. Read Summary > -
Pomegranate juice does not mix with statins
The fruit affects the body's metabolism in the same way that grapefruit does. Read Summary > -
Statins help improve heart health for Hispanic patients
The first large-scale study looking at statin use by Hispanics found significant improvement in cardiovascular risk factors. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Patient chooses cinnamon over Lipitor
The spice reduced cholesterol levels dramatically, says patient. Read Summary > -
Case file: Patient unwilling to take Lipitor
Doctor describes working with patient jointly to address high cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Price watch: Crestor
Current prices through online providers. Read Summary > -
Clinical trial: Effects of rosuvastatin and exercise on inflammation
Call for patients to participate in a study. Read Summary > -
Niaspan better than Crestor or Zocor, says manufacturer
A study shows greater reduction in levels of triglycerides and certain types of LDL (bad) cholesterol. Read Summary > -
Grapefruit may reduce cholesterol
Researchers study effects in patients for whom statins did not work. Read Summary > -
Recipe: Bone soup provides multiple benefits
Herbalist recommends a bone broth to support health. Read Summary > -
Statins, beta blockers help prevent first heart attack
Patients taking these medications were less likely to have a heart attack as the first symptom of heart disease. Read Summary > -
Better heart health, technologically speaking
This article reviews current and upcoming techniques in cardiac care. Read Summary > -
Heart-healthy strategies
Four things you can do today to prevent heart disease. Read Summary > -
New oat variety better at cutting cholesterol
The new variety has 50 percent more beta-glucan fiber than normal oats. Read Summary > -
Lipitor may help Viagra work better
A small pilot study found that taking Lipitor helps lower cholesterol and improve erectile dysfunction. Read Summary > -
Florida man convicted in fake Lipitor case
Iggy Santisteban convicted of printing fake labels. Read Summary > -
What to do when you can't tolerate statins
Q&A with Dr. Peter Gott. Read Summary > -
Statins could save stroke victims' lives
Receiving a statin soon after a stroke could improve chances of living. Read Summary > -
Lowering carbs may increase bad cholesterol
Such diets good for weight loss but possibly bad for heart health. Read Summary > -
Benefits of low-fat diet questioned
A new study shows no improvement in rates of heart disease, cancer. Read Summary > -
Q&A: Is statin use causing muscle weakness?
Dr. Bharat Sangani reviews causes of myopathy and treatment options. Read Summary > -
Many who need cholesterol therapy go untreated
Those at highest risk have poorest control, study reports. Read Summary > -
Hospitals censured for using trans fats
A study has found that 14 of 16 major hospitals use artery-clogging fats. Read Summary > -
Dangers of mixing grapefruit with drugs
Problems more common than many patients believe. Read Summary > -
Researchers develop a new heart disease risk assessment
Multiple lifestyle factors contribute to a person's chances of developing heart disease. Read Summary > -
"Calorie restriction" helps keep hearts young
Study finds fewer signs of aging for people following a low-calorie, nutritious diet. Read Summary > -
Test misses heart disease signs in women
Angiography fails to identify problems for about one in six women. Read Summary > -
Treatment may reduce stroke damage
The therapy includes cooling the victim's head and providing medications. Read Summary > -
Some patients believe statins cause memory loss
People blame cholesterol drugs for poor memory. Read Summary > -
Study recommends reducing or ending co-payments for statins
The strategy-predicted to decrease hospitalizations-could amount to $1 billion in savings for health insurers. Read Summary > -
University of Michigan launches pill-splitting program
Supported drugs are Lipitor, Pravachol, and Zocor. Read Summary > -
Lipitor may help fight bladder cancer
Initial studies show significant destruction of cultured human bladder cancer cells. Read Summary > -
Statins may help fight rheumatoid arthritis
Certain statins helped reduce the inflammatory state of RA. Read Summary > -
Decaf coffee may affect cholesterol
Some sources suggest changing to regular coffee. Read Summary > -
Israeli firm to market generic version of Zocor
Teva receives tentative FDA approval. Read Summary > -
Barley effective against cholesterol, says FDA
Manufacturers receive OK to change labels Read Summary > -
Doctors undertreat patients at risk for heart disease
Obesity, are hypertension overlooked. Read Summary > -
Crestor may be more beneficial than other statins for black patients
The anti-cholesterol drug is among those being tested for a specific ethnic group. Read Summary > -
FDA's trans-fat labeling requirement goes into effect
Food manufacturers must revise nutrition labels. Read Summary > -
Muscle pain may not recur after switching statins
A University of Wisconsin study found that statin-related myopathy, or muscle pain, may not recur after switching to a different drug. Read Summary > -
Consumer Reports identifies dangerous drugs
List includes Crestor, Serevent, Celebrex, Depo-Provera. Read Summary > -
Cholesterol rises in young women
A 12-year study reports decrease in other groups. Read Summary > -
No low-cost generic for Lipitor
A U.S. court ruling blocks generic competitors until 2011. Read Summary > -
Are you smart enough to take your medicine?
Doctors say OTC statins could help-if taken properly. Read Summary > -
Don't cut bad cholesterol, increase the good
New drug Niaspan raises good cholesterol levels. Read Summary > -
Lipitor no better than Zocor
Heart patients using high doses of Pfizer's statin drug, Lipitor, fared no better than those using lower doses of Merck's Zocor. Read Summary > -
Statins less effective for black Americans
U.S. researchers identify deleterious gene combination. Read Summary > -
Generics could save statin users a bundle
A generic version of Zocor will be available in June of 2006. Patients should expect a marketing battle by Pfizer, maker of statin market leader Lipitor. Read Summary > -
Hope for breast cancer dashed
A study of 80,000 women shows no link between statin use and a reduced risk of breast cancer. Read Summary >

