(October 21, 2008 - Insidermedicine) From Hamilton - According to research in the journal Circulation, a Western style diet increases the risk of heart attack. In a study of over 5,700 heart attack patients and over 10,600 controls, researchers found that those whose daily intake was high in meat, eggs, fried foods and salt were about 30% more likely to have a heart attack than those whose diet was high in fruit and vegetables. Meanwhile, an Oriental diet high in tofu, soy and other sauces did not appear to affect heart attack risk.

From Copenhagen - According to research in the journal Neurology, strokes are milder and less likely to cause impairment in those that are physically active. In a study of 295 patients who had suffered a stroke, researchers found that those who were the most physically active were 2.5 times more likely to have had a mild stroke, and half as likely to be left impaired, compared to those who exercised the least. Physical activity is also considered a modifiable risk factor for the prevention of stroke.

And finally, from Australia - According to research from the University of Melbourne, many parents do not know if their children are overweight. In a study of over 2,100 children and their parents, researchers found that 49% of parents of overweight children thought their child was of average weight. The researchers suggest that if parents falsely believe their children to be of average weight they are unlikely to help their child correct their weight.

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