DNA research sheds light on disease

Submitted by Rob Anderson, June 7th, 2007 • 0 Comments

A large-scale study by researchers in Britain has revealed genetic variations that influence seven common diseases, including hypertension, coronary artery disease and bipolar disorder. This discovery could one day lead to new treatments for the diseases.

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More bad news for supplement users

Submitted by Rob Anderson, June 6th, 2007 • 0 Comments

The latest in a string of stories that cast doubt on the usefulness of supplements: A recently released, NIH-funded study reveals that folic acid supplements do not help prevent colon cancer. In fact, the study says that folic acid may actually help precancerous colon polyps to grow.

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How safe are you contacts lenses?

Submitted by Rob Anderson, June 5th, 2007 • 0 Comments

In light of all the recent contact lense solution recalls, ABC News decided to take a look at contact lense safety. If you are a contact lense wearer, check out the story for some troubling (but potentially sight-saving) information.

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Malnutrition an issue for the elderly

Submitted by Rob Anderson, June 4th, 2007 • 0 Comments

According to some recent studies, there are millions of Americans over the age of 60 who are malnourished. This article highlights a program in North Louisiana aimed at helping seniors get the nutrition they need.

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Women need heart health info

Submitted by Rob Anderson, June 4th, 2007 • 0 Comments

Heart disease and stroke kill more women than all forms of cancer combined, so the LSU AgCenter is putting out helpful tips and heart-health goals for women. Find out more from this article in the Alexandria paper.

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WHO says no smoking at work

Submitted by Rob Anderson, May 30th, 2007 • 0 Comments

The World Health Organization is calling for a global ban on smoking at work or in enclosed public spaces.

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"Superbugs" on the rise in poor areas

Submitted by Rob Anderson, May 29th, 2007 • 0 Comments

A new study shows that drug-resistant staph infections may be on the rise among the urban poor.

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LA legislature takes on health care

Submitted by Rob Anderson, May 24th, 2007 • 0 Comments

This seems to be the week for the Louisiana legislature to begin dealing with health care issues. First, the Senate approved a bill that provides what the Advocate calls the framework of a state health-care restructuring plan. Then, a senate committee approved legislation tackling health insurance coverage.

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Working out: A fountain of youth?

Submitted by Rob Anderson, May 23rd, 2007 • 2 Comments

New research gives people another reason to hit the gym. It seems working out could partially reverse the aging process at the cellular level.

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Hospital death rates to go public

Submitted by Rob Anderson, May 23rd, 2007 • 12 Comments

For years, hospital death rates have been a closely guarded secret. In June, however, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) plans to release the first large-scale comparison of hospital death rates for heart attack and heart failure. Find out more in this USA Today article or visit the CMS Web site.

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Hepatitis C can be cured

Submitted by Rob Anderson, May 22nd, 2007 • 0 Comments

New research shows that existing medicinces and treatments can cure those infected with hepatitis C. According to the story, almost 4 million people are infected with it, but many don’t realize it.

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Mental health crisis in New Orleans

Submitted by Rob Anderson, May 22nd, 2007 • 2 Comments

According to this piece from New Orleans CityBusiness, “the severity of mental illness in New Orleans has reached new lows” and the situation is only getting worse.

This recent announcement may offer a glimmer of hope.

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