(October 1, 2007 - Insidermedicine) From New Jersey - The Topps Meat Company recall of potentially E. coli-infected meat has widened. In what is now being called one of the largest beef recalls in US history, the company is recalling over 21 million pounds of meat. Numerous cases of E. coli infection have occured across the US after eating beef patties made by the company. The effects of E. coli can range from bloody diarrhea to death in some.

From Maryland - Safety experts are recommending that the FDA ban the use of over-the-counter cough and cold medicines for those under the age of 6 years. Over a 30 year period, more that 100 deaths were associated with the use of either decongestants or antihistamines.

From Barcelona - A long-term study of over 70,000 women has shown moderate alcohol ingestion raises the risk of breast cancer. Women who drank on average between 1 and 2 glasses per day had a 10% higher risk for breast cancer, when compared to those who had less than 1 drink per day. The risk rose by 30% in those those who drank 3 or more glasses per day.  The risk was the same for those who drank red wine, white wine, or beer. Because 1 in 8 women get breast cancer, the real risk may increase to 1 in 6 in those who drink more than 3 glasses of alcohol per day.

And finally, from Baltimore - Children who have TV in their rooms are more likely to be less emotionally reactive. A study of over 2700 children showed that 5 year olds who had a TV in their rooms were more likely to have behavioral and sleep problems and be less emotionally responsive. Over 40% of those in kindergarten had a TV in their room.

For Insidermedicine in 60, I'm Dr. Susan Sharma.