Insidermedicine Daily News (Video)

Diabetes Video: New Medicine for Type 1 Diabetes Fails in Trials; Surgical Breast Biopsy Numbers Skewed; Eating Fish While Pregnant May Boost Cognitive Development in Child

Wed, 1 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EDT

(February 1, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From Sweden - A developmental medicine for type 1 diabetes has failed to show significant effects in a phase 3 trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Researchers randomized over 300 patients recently diagnosed with type 1 diabetes to either 4 doses of the novel medicine, 2 doses of the medicine plus placebo or 4 doses of placebo. Results showed some positive changes to C-peptide levels, but no significant effects.

From Philadelphia - According to a report published in the Journal of the American College of Radiology, surgical breast biopsies are not being overused. Researchers found that 30% of breast biopsies were classified as surgical, when in fact the amount of true surgical biopsies was somewhere between 2 and 18%.

And finally, from Spain - Eating fish while pregnant may improve cognitive development in the child, according to a report published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Researchers collected blood samples from 2,000 women at 20 weeks gestation and from the infant's umbilical cord. They found that women who consumed the most fish during pregnancy had children that scored higher in verbal intelligence and fine motor skills tests and demonstrated increased prosocial behaviour.

Heart Failure Linked to Mental Decline; Exercise Improves Health, Quality of Life in Cancer Patients; New Drug May Improve Survival in Advanced Prostate Cancer Patients (Video)

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EDT

(January 31, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From Australia - A new report published in the European Heart Journal finds that heart failure may cause mental decline. Researchers used MRI scans to study the brains of 35 heart failure patients, 56 heart disease patients and 64 healthy controls. Imaging revealed that the heart failure patients had worse memory than controls, and also reduced grey matter in brain regions associated with cognitive and emotional activity.

From Hong Kong - Exercise can improve health in cancer patients, according to a report published in the BMJ. Results of a meta-analysis examining over 30 trials found that exercise benefited cancer patients by improving their BMI and blood sugar control, reducing depression and greatly enhancing quality of life.

And finally, from Maryland - A novel drug may improve survival in advanced prostate cancer patients, according to a report presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology meeting. Researchers randomized men with drug-resistant prostate cancer to treatment with the drug MDV3100 or placebo. They found that the novel drug improved survival in the patients, resulting in a 37% reduced risk of death.
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Milk May Boost Brain Function; Difference in Blood Pressure Between Arms May Predict Heart Disease, Death; Family Doctors in UK Experiencing High Burnout Rates (Video)

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 18:30:00 EDT

(January 30, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From Maine - A daily glass of milk may boost memory and brain function, according to a report published in the International Dairy Journal. Researchers studied nearly 1,000 men and women ages 23 to 98, administering a series of tests that measure visual-spatial, verbal and working memory ability. Results showed that individuals who drank the most milk scored the highest on the tests--while milk drinkers were 5x less likely to fail the tests than non-milk drinkers.

From the UK - Checking blood pressure in both arms may help detect heart disease, according to a report published in the Lancet. Results of a meta-analysis found that a difference of 15mm Hg in systolic blood pressure between arms raised risk of heart disease and mortality.

And finally, from the UK - Family doctors in the UK have high levels of burnout, according to a report published in BMJ Open. Researchers surveyed over 550 general practitioners , finding that 46% said they were emotionally exhausted, 42% were depersonalized and 34% felt like they were not achieving anything

Anaphylaxis After Vaccine Very Rare; Working 11 Hour Days May Cause Depression; Many Smokers Do Not Quit, Even After Lung Cancer Diagnosis (Week in Review)

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EDT

(January 29, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From the UK - Anaphylactic shock following vaccination is an extremely rare event, according to a report published in the Archives of Disease in Childhood. From 2008-2009, researchers noted only 7 confirmed cases of anaphylaxis following vaccination among over 5.5 million children vaccinated.

From London - A new report published in PLoS ONE finds that people who work too much are at raised risk of depression. Studying 2000 civil servants, researchers found that individuals who worked 11 or more hours a day had a twofold increased risk of suffering a major depressive episode.

And finally, from Boston - Research published in CANCER finds that many patients continue to smoke even after being diagnosed with cancer. Examining nearly 5,500 colorectal and lung cancer patients, researchers found that a substantial minority of these patients continued smoking 5 months after their diagnosis.

Elderly at Raised Risk of Infection Following ER Visit; Brain Activities May Ward off Alzheimer's Disease; Oral HPV Infection More Common in Men than Women (Week in Review)

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EDT

(January 28, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From Montreal - The elderly are at significantly increased risk of infection following a visit to the emergency department, according to a report published in CMAJ. Studying over 1200 elderly residents of long term care facilities, researchers found that individuals were at 3x increased risk of a new respiratory or GI infection in the week following an emergency department visit.

From California - Keeping your brain active may reduce risk of Alzheimer's disease, according to a report published in the Archives of Neurology. Researchers studied 65 healthy elderly patients, as well as 10 Alzheimer disease patients and 11 young controls. They found that individuals who participated in more brain stimulating activities throughout their life, particularly in their early and middle years, had reduced levels of β-amyloid protein--a major component of AD development.

And finally, from Ohio - A new report presented at the Multidisciplinary Head and Neck Cancer Symposium finds that HPV-related cancers are more common in men than women. Studying over 5,500 adult men and women, researchers found that oral HPV infections were 3x more common in men than women, and that men were 5x more likely to have an HPV 16 infection--a form of the virus that raises risk of head and neck cancer by 14x

Lung Cancer Video: New Test May Be Able to Predict Lung Cancer Death; 40% of Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients Are Inactive; HPV-Related Cancers More Common in Men than Women

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 18:30:00 EDT

(January 26, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From California - A new test may accurately predict risk of dying from lung cancer, according to a report published in the Lancet. Researchers used a novel molecular assay to blindly examine 433 patients with early stage lung cancer, as well as over 1000 lung cancer patients in China. They found the assay was accurate in predicting who was at low, intermediate or high risk of dying from the disease 5 years following lung cancer surgery.

From Chicago - Over 40% of rheumatoid arthritis patients are physically inactive, according to a report published in Arthritis Care & Research. Studying nearly 200 RA patients, researchers found that 2 in 5 reported participating in no physical activity, while 53% said they lacked motivation for physical activity and 49% did not believe that physical activity would have any benefits.

And finally, from Ohio - A new report presented at the Multidisciplinary Head and Neck Cancer Symposium finds that HPV-related cancers are more common in men than women. Studying over 5,500 adult men and women, researchers found that oral HPV infections were 3x more common in men than women, and that men were 5x more likely to have an HPV 16 infection--a form of the virus that raises risk of head and neck cancer by 14x

Heart Attack Deaths Halved in Past 10 Years; Working Too Much Linked to Depression; 10 Year Heart Attack Risk Prediction Can Give False Sense of Security (Video)

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:30:00 EDT

(January 25, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From Oxford- Heart attack death rates in England have been dramatically reduced in the last 10 years, according to a report published in the BMJ. Studying over 860,000 heart attacks from 2002-2010, researchers noted a 50% decline in heart attack deaths among men and a 53% decline among women.

From London - A new report published in PLoS ONE finds that people who work too much are at raised risk of depression. Studying 2000 civil servants, researchers found that individuals who worked 11 or more hours a day had a twofold increased risk of suffering a major depressive episode.

And finally, from Chicago - Doctors may be giving patients a false sense of security regarding their heart attack risk, according to a report published in the NEJM. In a study of over 250,000 people, researchers reviewed the effectiveness of providing patients with a prediction of their 10 year risk for heart attack. They found that the short-term risk prediction is misleading and provides patients with a false sense of security, since having just one risk factor for heart attack, such as high blood pressure or cholesterol, greatly increases one's lifetime risk of heart attack.

Anaphylactic Shock After Vaccination Extremely Rare; Elderly at 3x Raised Risk of Infection Following ER Visit; New Target for Deadly Brain Cancer (Video)

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EDT

(January 24, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From the UK - Anaphylactic shock following vaccination is an extremely rare event, according to a report published in the Archives of Disease in Childhood. From 2008-2009, researchers noted only 7 confirmed cases of anaphylaxis following vaccination among over 5.5 million children vaccinated.

From Montreal - The elderly are at significantly increased risk of infection following a visit to the emergency department, according to a report published in CMAJ. Studying over 1200 elderly residents of long term care facilities, researchers found that individuals were at 3x increased risk of a new respiratory or GI infection in the week following an emergency department visit.

And finally, from Atlanta - Research published in Cancer Discovery finds a possible new pathway that may improve treatment of lethal brain cancer. Scientists used glioblastoma samples and cancer stem cells, finding a novel pathway that allowed treatment to overcome resistance of the brain tumour.

Alzheimer's Disease Video: Keeping Brain Active May Reduce Risk of Alzheimer's Disease; Targeting One Protein May Fight Several Cancers; Many Smokers Don't Quit After Cancer Diagnosis

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EDT

(January 23, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From California - Keeping your brain active may reduce risk of Alzheimer's disease, according to a report published in the Archives of Neurology. Researchers studied 65 healthy elderly patients, as well as 10 Alzheimer disease patients and 11 young controls. They found that individuals who participated in more brain stimulating activities throughout their life, particularly in their early and middle years, had reduced levels of β-amyloid protein--a major component of AD development.

From Germany - Two reports published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine find a single protein that may be key to fighting several forms of cancer. In the first study, researchers found that inhibiting the protein HSP90 slowed breast tumour growth in a mouse model, while the second study revealed that HSP90 inhibitors also slowed the growth of leukaemia cells in a mouse model.

And finally, from Boston - Research published in CANCER finds that many patients continue to smoke even after being diagnosed with cancer. Examining nearly 5,500 colorectal and lung cancer patients, researchers found that a substantial minority of these patients continued smoking 5 months after their diagnosis.

Statins May Have Cancer Fighting Ability; 1 in 10 Canadians Unable to Afford Medications; Melanoma Death Rates Drop, But Only Among Most Educated (Week in Review)

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EDT

(January 22, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From New York - Statins may have cancer fighting ability, according to a report published in Cell. Scientists examined cancer cells in an artificial model of the human breast, finding that mutations in the tumour suppressing gene p53 led to disorganized and invasive growth of the cancer cells. When the p53 mutation was treated with statins, researchers saw the cancer cells stop their invasive growth and even die.

From British Columbia - 10% of Canadians cannot afford prescription drugs, according to a report published in the CMAJ. Researchers surveyed nearly 6,000 Canadians, finding that 1 in 10 participants reported not taking prescription drugs as directed due to cost.

From Georgia - Melanoma death rates are dropping, but only among those with the most education, according to a report published in the Archives of Dermatology. Studying death certificates from 26 American states, researchers found that melanoma death rates dropped by 10% from 1997 to 2007. The researchers noted, however, that these rates declined only in individuals who had at least 13 years of education.

Obesity Rates in the US Remain Unchanged; Cigarette Smoke Causes Emphysema; Insomnia Linked to Many Serious Health Problems (Week in Review)

Sat, 21 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EDT

(January 21, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From Maryland - Obesity rates in the US are still high and have not changed much in recent years, according to a report published in JAMA. Analyzing data from a nationally representative sample, researchers found that one in three adults and one in six children and teens are obese, while there have been increases in obesity rates among certain demographics.

From Texas - A new report published in Science Translational Medicine describes how cigarette smoke causes emphysema. Studying mice, researchers found that toxic cigarette smoke activates a host of genes in the immune system that in turn inflame the lungs, resulting in emphysema.

And finally, from Quebec - A new report published in the Lancet emphasizes the importance of diagnosing and treating insomnia early. Researchers reviewed evidence regarding the sleep disorder, finding that insomnia patients are over 5x more likely to have anxiety and depression, 2x more likely to develop congestive heart failure and diabetes, and 7x more likely to develop substance abuse problems

PCE in Drinking Water Linked to Bipolar Disorder, PTSD; Neurodegeneration May Be Cause by Genetic Mutation; Exercise Eases Anxiety in Women (Video)

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EDT

(January 20, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From Boston - PCE in the drinking water significantly raises risk of mental illness, according to a report published in Environmental Health. Researchers followed children born between 1969 n 1983--a time in which water pipes were known to be leaking PCE, a chemical used to dry-clean clothes, into drinking water supply. They found that prenatal and early childhood exposure to the solvent resulted in a 2x increased risk of bipolar disorder and 50% increased risk of PTSD.

From Maine - A new report published in Cell identifies a possible cause of neurodegeneration. Researchers noted a mutation in 1 copy of the U2 snRNA gene that caused neurodegeneration in a mouse model.

And finally, from Georgia - Exercise helps ease anxiety in women, according to a report published in Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics. Researchers assigned 30 sedentary women suffering from generalized anxiety disorder to either an aerobic exercise group or a control group. They found that the exercise group experienced significant reductions in their worry symptoms, as well as moderate reductions in their irritability, tension and pain.

Statins May Help Fight Cancer; Blood Protein Levels Predict Kidney Disease In Diabetic Patients; Insomnia Linked to Several Serious Health Problems (VIdeo)

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 18:30:00 EDT

(January 19, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From New York - Statins may have cancer fighting ability, according to a report published in Cell. Scientists examined cancer cells in an artificial model of the human breast, finding that mutations in the tumour suppressing gene p53 led to disorganized and invasive growth of the cancer cells. When the p53 mutation was treated with statins, researchers saw the cancer cells stop their invasive growth and even die.

From Boston - Levels of a certain blood protein can predict which diabetic patients will develop kidney disease, according to a report published in Journal of the American Society Nephrology. Studying over 1,000 type 1 and 2 diabetic patients, researchers found that high levels of TNF receptor in the blood increased risk of kidney disease later in life by 3-5x.

And finally, from Quebec - A new report published in the Lancet emphasizes the importance of diagnosing and treating insomnia early. Researchers reviewed evidence regarding the sleep disorder, finding that insomnia patients are over 5x more likely to have anxiety and depression, 2x more likely to develop congestive heart failure and diabetes, and 7x more likely to develop substance abuse problems

How Cigarette Smoke Causes Emphysema; New Mechanism of Glioblastoma Discovered; Vitamin D Not Beneficial for COPD Patients (Video)

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EDT

(January 18, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From Texas - A new report published in Science Translational Medicine describes how cigarette smoke causes emphysema. Studying mice, researchers found that toxic cigarette smoke activates a host of genes in the immune system that in turn inflame the lungs, resulting in emphysema.

From Texas - Scientists have discovered a new mechanism of glioblastoma development, according to a report published in Molecular Cancer Research. Laboratory research revealed that two RNA-binding proteins mesh together two cancer related gene networks, significantly affecting growth of the brain tumour.

And finally, from Belgium - Vitamin D does not appear to benefit patients with COPD, according to a report published in the Annals of Internal Medicine. Researchers examined nearly 200 COPD patients, randomizing participants to monthly vitamin D supplementation or placebo. Results showed that the vitamin D group did not experience greater improvements in their quality of life, hospitalizations or lung function when compared to placebo

US Obesity Rates Not Changing; Scientists Discover Origins of Esophageal Cancer; Sleep May Preserve Troubling Emotional Memories (Video)

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EDT

(January 17, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From Maryland - Obesity rates in the US are still high and have not changed much in recent years, according to a report published in JAMA. Analyzing data from a nationally representative sample, researchers found that one in three adults and one in six children and teens are obese, while there have been increases in obesity rates among certain demographics.

From New York - A new report published in Cancer Cell has made a potential breakthrough in understanding esophageal cancer. Using a mouse model, researchers discovered the cellular and molecular origins of esophageal adenocarcinoma--the fastest rising cancer in the US.

And finally, from Massachusetts - Sleep may preserve unsettling emotional memories, according to a report published in the Journal of Neuroscience. Researchers studied over 100 healthy adults, finding that participants were less likely to be disturbed by an unsettling picture or event if they stayed awake afterwards.

10% of Canadians Cannot Afford Prescription Drugs; Melanoma Death Rates Dropping, But Only Among Most Educated; Harms of Drinking While Pregnant (Video)

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EDT

(January 16, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From British Columbia - 10% of Canadians cannot afford prescription drugs, according to a report published in the CMAJ. Researchers surveyed nearly 6,000 Canadians, finding that 1 in 10 participants reported not taking prescription drugs as directed due to cost.

From Georgia - Melanoma death rates are dropping, but only among those with the most education, according to a report published in the Archives of Dermatology. Studying death certificates from 26 American states, researchers found that melanoma death rates dropped by 10% from 1997 to 2007. The researchers noted, however, that these rates declined only in individuals who had at least 13 years of education.

And finally, from California - A new report published in Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research examines the harms of drinking while pregnant. Researchers studied data on nearly 1,000 women who gave birth to a live-infant. They found that alcohol consumption during the second half of the first trimester, in particular, was associated with 4 facial characteristics of FAS, as well as low birth weight and length

Retinoblastoma Gene Found; Elevated HIV Blood Levels Affect Risk of Sexually Transmitting the Disease; Nicotine Replacement May Not Work Long Term (Week in Review)

Sun, 15 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EDT

(January 15, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From Tennessee - A new report published in Nature identifies a major genetic cause of retinoblastoma. Scientists sequenced the cancer genomes of patients with retinoblastoma and identified the mechanism that causes the eye tumour to be aggressive. These results provide a potential new target for treating the childhood tumour.

From Seattle - Elevated levels of HIV-1 in the blood greatly increases risk of sexual HIV transmission, according to a report published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases. Studying over 3200 couples in which one partner had HIV and the other did not, researchers found that the higher the levels of HIV-1 in the blood of the infected partner, the more likely the virus was to be transmitted to the uninfected partner.

And finally, from Boston - Research published in Tobacco Control finds that nicotine replacement therapies may not be effective long term. Researchers followed nearly 800 former smokers for nearly 5 years, finding that nicotine patches and gum were not effective at preventing individuals from relapsing when compared to individuals who quit smoking on their own

Grief Spikes Heart Attack Risk; Surgeons Best Between 35-50 Years Old; Children May Be More Likely to Have Asthma If Born Via C-Section (Week in Review)

Sat, 14 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EDT

(January 14 - Insidermedicine)

From Boston - Grief raises risk of heart attack, according to a report published in Circulation. Studying nearly 2000 heart attack survivors, researchers found that heart attack risk increased by 21x within the first day of losing a loved one, and nearly 6x within the first week.

From France - Surgeons are at their best between the ages 35 and 50, according to a report published in British Medical Journal. Studying over 3500 thyroidectomies by nearly 30 different surgeons, researchers found that patients were at highest risk of complications if their surgeon was inexperienced or had been in practice for over 20 years.

And finally, from Norway - Children may be more likely to develop asthma if they are delivered via cesarean section, according to a report published in the American Journal of Epidemiology. Studying over 37,000 individuals, researchers found that children delivered by c-section had a slightly increased risk of developing asthma by age 3, even if their mother had no allergy history

Possible Blood Test for Early Atherosclerosis; Gene Linked to Hereditary Prostate Cancer; Dietary Fibre Reduces Risk of Several Diseases (Video)

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EDT

(January 13, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From Virginia - Scientists may have developed a blood test for early atherosclerosis, according to a report published in BMC Medical Genomics. Researchers collected blood samples from patients at high risk for atherosclerosis and from healthy controls, examining the samples for a set of 56 biomarkers believed to indicate early atherosclerosis. Results showed that the test was very accurate in identifying which individuals were at high risk.

From Michigan - Research published in the New England Journal of Medicine identifies a gene mutation associated with hereditary prostate cancer. Studying over 5100 prostate cancer patients and 1400 controls, researchers found that individuals who inherited the HOXB13 genetic mutation had up to 20x increased risk of developing prostate cancer.

And finally, from India - Increased fibre in the diet reduces risk of several diseases, according to a report published in the International Journal of Food Safety, Nutrition and Public Health. Results of a meta-analysis found that adequate consumption of dietary fibre greatly improves gastrointestinal health, reducing risk of diseases such as diverticular disease, heart disease and colon cancer.

HIV Video: Blood Levels of HIV Greatly Affect Risk of Sexual Transmission; Most Low Fat Muffins Not Healthy; C-Section May Raise Asthma Risk in the Child

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EDT

(January 12, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From Seattle - Elevated levels of HIV-1 in the blood greatly increases risk of sexual HIV transmission, according to a report published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases. Studying over 3200 couples in which one partner had HIV and the other did not, researchers found that the higher the levels of HIV-1 in the blood of the infected partner, the more likely the virus was to be transmitted to the uninfected partner.

From Boston - A new report released by the Harvard School of Public Health finds that low fat muffins are not particularly healthy. Researchers found that low fat muffins typically have the same amount of calories as regular muffins, but with even more carbohydrates, sugar and 60% more sodium. The study authors emphasize that truly healthy muffins are those made with healthy fats, whole grains and much less sugar and salt.

And finally, from Norway - Children may be more likely to develop asthma if they are delivered via cesarean section, according to a report published in the American Journal of Epidemiology. Studying over 37,000 individuals, researchers found that children delivered by c-section had a slightly increased risk of developing asthma by age 3, even if their mother had no allergy history

Retinoblastoma Video: Major Genetic Cause of Childhood Tumor Discovered; Surgeons Are At Their Best Between 35 and 50 Years Old; Hospitalization Rates for Dementia Patients

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EDT

(January 11, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Tennessee - A new report published in Nature identifies a major genetic cause of retinoblastoma. Scientists sequenced the cancer genomes of patients with retinoblastoma and identified the mechanism that causes the eye tumour to be aggressive. These results provide a potential new target for treating the childhood tumour.

From France - Surgeons are at their best between the ages 35 and 50, according to a report published in British Medical Journal. Studying over 3500 thyroidectomies by nearly 30 different surgeons, researchers found that patients were at highest risk of complications if their surgeon was inexperienced or had been in practice for over 20 years.

And finally, from Washington - Dementia patients have very high hospitalization rates, according to a report published in Journal of the American Medical Association. Researchers examined over 3000 hospitalizations over a 13 year period, finding patients who had dementia were 2x more likely to be hospitalized than those without the condition.

Marathon Runners Are Not At Raised Risk of Cardiac Arrest (Video)

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EDT

(January 11, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

While male marathoners with cardiovascular disease are at highest risk of experiencing a cardiac arrest during a long-distance run, the overall likelihood of such an occurrence is quite low, according to research published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for a marathon:

•    Make sure you’re getting plenty of sleep

•    Stay hydrated

•    Eat a diet rich in complex carbohydrates prior to the race

Researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School calculated the incidence of cardiac arrest during marathons and half-marathons that took place in the United States between January 2000 and May 2010. They also assessed the clinical characteristics of the cardiac arrests that did occur by interviewing survivors and the next of kin of nonsurvivors and studying medical records and postmortem data.

Among 10.9 million runners, 59 experienced a cardiac arrest, and 71% of these runners died. That translates to an overall incidence of cardiac arrest of 0.54 for every 100,000 runners. Cardiac arrest was more likely to occur during marathons than half-marathons and in men than women. Most of those who experienced cardiac arrest had underlying cardiovascular disease, and one of the greatest predictors of survival was the presence of someone who quickly initiated CPR. Among those at highest risk for cardiac arrest, that is, male marathoners, the incidence of cardiac arrest increased during the study period.

Today’s research suggests that most long-distance runners do not need to worry about experiencing a sudden cardiac arrest, although men with underlying cardiovascular disease should be the most cautious.

Marijuana Smoke Not as Damaging As Cigarette Smoke; New Resuscitation Guidelines Ask 911 Dispatchers to Teach CPR Over Phone; Novel Drug Combo for Lung Cancer (Video)

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EDT

(January 10, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From Alabama - Marijuana smoke may not be as harmful as cigarette smoke, according to a report published in JAMA. Researchers reviewed data from a 21 year study following over 5,000 men and women. They found that long term cigarette smokers had significant decreases in air flow and lung volume, while occasional marijuana smokers did not suffer these same deficits.

From Wisconsin - 911 dispatchers can save lives by coaching CPR to bystanders over the phone, according to new resuscitation guidelines published in Circulation. The new guidelines recommend that dispatchers can greatly increase the 'chain of survival' among heart attack patients by assessing whether or not an individual has suffered a cardiac arrest, and then provide hand-only CPR coaching to callers.

And finally, from Pittsburgh - A novel drug combination may help prevent lung cancer, according to a study presented at the Molecular Origins of Lung Cancer: Biology, Therapy and Personalized Medicine conference. Researchers found that a combination of estrogen targeting drugs was able reduce lung cancer tumours in a mouse model with precancerous cells

Stem Cells May Be Able to Reverse Diabetes; Grief Greatly Raises Risk of Heart Attack; Nicotine Patch May Not Be Effective, Long Term (Video)

Mon, 9 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EDT

(January 9, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From Chicago - Scientists may have reversed diabetes using stem cell therapy, according to a report published in BMC Medicine. Researchers used stem cells taken from diabetic patients' cord blood and re-educated the T-cells to improve pancreatic function. After 40 weeks of treatment, researchers saw improvements in patient's autoimmune control--suggesting that daily insulin dosage could be safely reduced.

From Boston - Grief raises risk of heart attack, according to a report published in Circulation. Studying nearly 2000 heart attack survivors, researchers found that heart attack risk increased by 21x within the first day of losing a loved one, and nearly 6x within the first week.

And finally, from Boston - Research published in Tobacco Control finds that nicotine replacement therapies may not be effective long term. Researchers followed nearly 800 former smokers for nearly 5 years, finding that nicotine patches and gum were not effective at preventing individuals from relapsing when compared to individuals who quit smoking on their own

Cancer Death Rates Falling; Global Drug Related Burden of Disease; Stem Cells Keep Aging Mice Alive Longer than Expected (Week in Review)

Sun, 8 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EDT

From Georgia - A new report released by the American Cancer Society finds that cancer death rates in the US continue to fall. Researchers noted a 1% decrease per year in cancer death rates from 1999 to 2008, particularly among the most common cancers--breast, prostate, lung and colon.

From Australia - A new report published in the Lancet examines the global burden of disease due to drug use. Researchers estimate that around 200 million people worldwide are using illicit drugs every year, with use being highest in developed countries. These results make the drug-related burden of disease equivalent to that caused by alcohol.

From Pittsburgh - Stem cells given to aging mice significantly extended the rodent's lifespan, according to a report published in Nature Communications. Researchers injected stem cells derived from young, healthy mice into a mouse model that was engineered to age rapidly. They found that the stem cells dramatically improved the health of the mice and the rodent's lived 2-3x longer than expected.

Mental Deterioration May Begin at 45; PSA Screening Has No Impact on Prostate Cancer Mortality, Calories, not Protein, Lead to Increase in Body Fat (Week in Review)

Sat, 7 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EDT

PSA Screening May Not Affect Prostate Cancer Death Rates; Cancer Mortality Slowly Declining; Thyroid Condition During Pregnancy More Common than Believed (Video)

Fri, 6 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EDT

(January 6, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From St. Louis - PSA screening may offer no mortality benefit, according to a report published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. Researchers followed men aged 55-74 for 13 years, randomizing participants to either PSA screening for 6 years or usual medical care. Results showed no mortality difference between the two groups.

From Georgia - A new report released by the American Cancer Society finds that cancer death rates in the US continue to fall. Researchers noted a 1% decrease per year in cancer death rates from 1999 to 2008, particularly among the most common cancers--breast, prostate, lung and colon.

And finally, from New Jersey - Hypothyroidism during pregnancy is more common than previously though, according to a report published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism. Studying over 115,000 women aged 18-40, researchers found that 15% suffered from gestational hypothyroidism. As a result, the researchers estimate the the condition may affect as many as 483,000 pregnant women a year

Cognitive Decline May Start Earlier than Previously Thought; Over 200 Million Worldwide Use Illicit Drugs in a Year; Herpes Vaccine Deemed Ineffective (Video)

Thu, 5 Jan 2012 18:30:00 EDT

(January 5, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From France - Cognitive decline can begin at age 45, according to a report published in the BMJ. Researchers followed nearly 5200 men and over 2100 women for 10 years, finding a noticeable decline in participants mental reasoning at ages 45-49.

From Australia - A new report published in the Lancet examines the global burden of disease due to drug use. Researchers estimate that around 200 million people worldwide are using illicit drugs every year, with use being highest in developed countries. These results make the drug-related burden of disease equivalent to that caused by alcohol.

And finally, from St. Louis - A promising herpes vaccine has been shown to be ineffective, according to research published in the NEJM. In a study of over 8300 healthy women, researchers found that the herpes vaccine failed to prevent infection of the most common cause of genital herpes, herpes type 2

Risk factors for liver cancer; On track to HIV Vaccine; Genetic cause of deafness (Video)

Wed, 4 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EDT

(January 4, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From Minnesota, researchers at the Mayo Clinic have identified that liver scarring associated with Hepatitis C was a risk factor for liver cancer. Previously, liver scarring diseases associated with alcohol consumption were a known risk factor. Obesity was also found to account for 11% of liver cancer cases.

From Boston, research appearing online in Nature shows great promise in preventing and controlling HIV infection. The scientists were able to partially protect monkeys from acquiring a virulent strain of Simian Immunodeficiency Virus (or SIV), a monkey version of HIV. Plans are underway to begin early-stage clinical trials in humans, but in the meantime this research confirms that scientists are homing in on some of the critical ingredients of a protective HIV vaccine.

And finally, from St. Louis - Research published in PLoS Biology may have identified a genetic cause for deafness. Researchers found that inactivating the FGF20 gene in a mouse model resulted in completely healthy rodents that had no ability to hear.

Stem Cells Greatly Extend Lifespan of Aging Mice; Bariatric Surgery May Reduce Risk of Fatal Heart Attack, Stroke; Over-consumption of Calories Leads to Body Fat (Video)

Tue, 3 Jan 2012 17:30:00 EDT

(January 3, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From Sweden - Bariatric surgery may reduce risk of deadly heart attack and stroke, according to a report published in JAMA. Researchers compared over 2000 obese individuals who underwent bariatric surgery to 2000 obese individuals treated with usual care. 15 year follow up revealed an association between the surgery and a reduction in fatal heart attacks and strokes.

And finally, from Baton Rouge - Overconsumption of calories, not protein, increases body fat, according to a report published in JAMA. Researchers randomized 25 healthy individuals to over-consume varying levels of protein-diets. They found that those on the low-protein diets gained the least amount of weight, and that calories alone increased percentage of body fat

MRI Best At Diagnosing Coronary Artery Disease; Mediterranean Diet May Prolong Life; Early Salt Exposure Develops Child's Preference for Salty Foods (Video)

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(December 23, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From the UK - MRI is the best approach to diagnosing coronary artery disease, according to a report published in the Lancet. A five year study of nearly 800 patients found that MRI is superior in accuracy and safety when compared to the commonly used SPECT test at diagnosing coronary artery disease.

From Sweden - Mediterranean diet can prolong life, according to a report published in Age. Results of a 40 year study comparing the diets of thousands of 70 years olds showed that individuals who ate a mediterranean diet were 20% more likely to have a longer life.

And finally, from Philadelphia - Research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition finds that early salt exposure develops an infant's preference for salty foods. Researchers found that children exposed to starchy, salt containing foods at 6 months consumed 55% more salt during a preference test than children not exposed to such foods.

Science's Breakthrough of 2011; Mothers Can Improve Child's Ability to Take Another Perspective; One Gene Mutation Linked to Several Rare Cancers (Video)

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(December 22, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From North Carolina - Using antiretroviral therapy to prevent transmission of HIV is the scientific breakthrough of the year, according to a review published in Science. Originally published in August in the NEJM, the study found that early treatment of HIV patients with antiretroviral drugs reduced transmission of the disease by 96%.

From Australia - Research published in Child Development describes how mothers can improve their child's ability to take another person's perspective. Researchers examined over 120 children between 4 and 6 years old. They found that the more a mother discussed with her child about other people's thoughts and feelings, the better the child's language development and perspective taking ability.

And finally, from BC - A new report published in the NEJM identifies a gene mutation associated with several unrelated cancers. Studying rare ovarian, testicular and uterine tumours, researchers found all of the cancers were linked to the same fundamental mutation on the DICER gene.

Weather Forecasting Tool May Work in Predicting Brain Tumor Growth; Gene Variants Linked to Early Bipolar Disease; Hip Hop Improves Vocabulary in Listener (Video)

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(December 21, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Arizona - Weather forecasting models may also work to predict the growth of brain tumours, according to a report published in Biology Direct. Researchers used an algorithm developed to forecast the weather to predict how a hypothetical model of glioblastoma would grow. They found that the mathematical equation provided a clinically relevant prediction of the tumours development.

From San Diego - Research published in Neuron identifies a series of genetic variants that may cause bipolar disease. Scientists discovered a rare DNA sequencing abnormality, known as de novo CNVs, that greatly increased the risk for early onset bipolar disease.

And finally, from Alberta - Hip hop music may improve vocabulary in the listener, according to a report published in PLoS ONE. Researchers found that the amount of hip hop artists a study participant listened to was predictive of their knowledge of words and phrases not considered mainstream--even after taking into account demographics, pop culture knowledge and musical preferences.

40% of Police Officers Have Sleep Disorder; Vaccinating Females Only Most Effective Way to Reduce HPV; High Blood Pressure Treatment May Prolong Life (Video)

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(December 20, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Boston - Nearly half of all police officers suffer from sleep disorders, according to a report published in JAMA. Studying over 3,600 North American police officers for two years, researchers found that 40% had at least one sleep disorder, the most common one being sleep apnea.

From the Netherlands - A new report published in PLoS Medicine finds that single sex vaccination is the best approach to reducing HPV infections. Mathematical modelling revealed that vaccinating only females against HPV infections would be the most effective approach to reducing the prevalence of the virus.

And finally, from New Jersey - High blood pressure treatment may improve life expectancy, according to a report published in JAMA. Researchers randomized hypertension patients to either chlorthalidone for 4.5 years or a placebo. Results showed that patients taking the high blood pressure medication had significantly lower death rates and a much higher life expectancy free from cardiovascular death when compared to those on placebo

Nickel, Selenium in Body May Reduce Risk of Pancreatic Cancer; Blood Pressure Changes Midlife Affect Risk of Heart Disease; Low Calorie Diet May Keep Brain from Aging (Video)

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 18:30:00 EDT

(December 19, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Spain - High levels of nickel and selenium in the body may reduce risk of pancreatic cancer, according to a report published in Gut. Studying over 100 pancreatic cancer patients and nearly 400 controls, researchers found that those who had the highest bodily levels of nickel and selenium were 33-95% less likely to develop pancreatic cancer.

From Chicago - Blood pressure changes during middle age can affect risk of heart disease, according to a report published in Circulation. Researchers studied data on nearly 62,000 individuals, finding that those who maintained or reduced their blood pressure to normal levels by age 55 had the lowest risk of developing heart disease, while those who already had hypertension by age 55 had up to 69% increased risk.

And finally, from Italy - Eating less may protect the brain from aging, according to a report published in PNAS. Studying mice, researchers found that a low calorie diet activates the molecule CREB1, and that this molecule consequently triggers other genes that keep the brain functioning properly

Chemo Alone Improves Survival in Blood Cancer Patients; Dentists Could Screen for Chronic Health Problems; DNA Study Finds CLL Gene Mutation (Week in Review)

Sun, 18 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(December 16, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Kingston - Research published in the New England Journal of Medicine finds that chemotherapy alone may improve survival in some blood cancer patients. Randomizing patients with Hodgkin's lymphoma to either chemotherapy alone, radiation plus chemotherapy, or radiation alone, researchers found that those treated with only chemotherapy were more likely to be alive a year after treatment started.

From New York - Dentists could potentially screen nearly 20 million Americans for chronic health problems, according to a report published in the American Journal of Public Health. Researchers found that a significant portion of US adults and children routinely visit a dentist but not a health care provider. The authors suggest that dentists, as trained health care professionals, could potentially screen for diabetes and high blood pressure during the course of a normal visit.

And finally, from Boston - A massive DNA study has found several gene abnormalities implicated in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), according to a report published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Results of comprehensive DNA sequencing revealed five genetic mutations that were commonly associated with the blood cancer, an aspect which may improve predictions on progression of the diseas

Breast Cancer Vaccine Shrinks Tumors in Mice; Factors for Stillbirth; HPV Blood Test Best for Detecting Cervical Cancer (Week in Review)

Sat, 17 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(December 17, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Georgia - Scientists may be closer to developing a breast cancer vaccine, according to a report published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Researchers developed a synthetic vaccine that was able activate the immune response in a mouse model, significantly shrinking both breast and pancreatic tumours that were 90% similar to human tumors.

From Utah - Several factors may raise risk of stillbirth, according to a report published in JAMA. Researchers studied nearly 2500 deliveries in the US that took place over 2 years. They found that non-Hispanic black race, diabetes, age over 40, AB blood type, a history of drug addiction, smoking 3 months prior to pregnancy, obesity and not living with a partner all independently raised risk of stillbirth.

And finally, from Bethesda - An HPV blood test is the best way to screen for cervical cancer in women over the age 30, according to a report published in the Lancet Oncology. Studying nearly 45,000 women for 5 years, researchers found that HPV testing found significantly more precancerous lesions than cytology, without resulting in over-diagnosis.

HIV Treatment More Effective if Immediately Administered; Preventing Preterm Birth Possible with Progesterone; Exercise Declines Greatly Once Youth Attend College, University (Video)

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(December 16, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Milwaukee - Research published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases finds that immediate antiretroviral therapy is the best approach to treating early HIV infections. Researchers randomized 130 patients with early HIV to immediate antiretroviral therapy or until treatment was medically indicated. They found that the infection progressed much faster in those whose treatment was deferred.

From Kentucky - Vaginal progesterone may help prevent preterm births, according to a report published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Studying women with a short cervix--a known risk factor for premature delivery--researchers found that vaginal progesterone significantly reduced rates of births prior to 33 weeks gestation.

And finally, from Hamilton - A new report published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine finds that young adults frequently stop exercising once they attend university or college. Researchers followed over 600 adolescents until they were 24-27 years old, finding a 24% decrease in physical activity over the 12 year study period--with the decline greatest among men entering post secondary schooling.

Dentists Could Screen Many Americans for Chronic Health Problems; Some Kidney Proteins Raise Risk of Premature Death; HPV Test Best for Cervical Cancer Detection (Video)

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(December 15, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From New York - Dentists could potentially screen nearly 20 million Americans for chronic health problems, according to a report published in the American Journal of Public Health. Researchers found that a significant portion of US adults and children routinely visit a dentist but not a health care provider. The authors suggest that dentists, as trained health care professionals, could potentially screen for diabetes and high blood pressure during the course of a normal visit.

From Massachusetts - Elevated levels of certain kidney proteins may predict premature death, according to a report published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology. Researchers followed over 800 kidney disease patients for over 16 years, finding that higher levels of cystatic C and beta trace protein increased risk of dying prematurely.

And finally, from Bethesda - HPV testing is the best way to screen for cervical cancer in women over the age 30, according to a report published in the Lancet Oncology. Studying nearly 45,000 women for 5 years, researchers found that HPV testing found significantly more precancerous lesions than cytology, without resulting in over-diagnosis.

HIV Video: Scientists Discover Protein that Enhances HIV's Ability to Infect; Statins May Protect Flu Patients; Childhood Cancer Survivors Do Not Have Birth Defect Risk

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(December 14, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From California - Scientists have discovered proteins in the semen that enhances HIV's ability to infect new cells, according to a report published in Cell Host & Microbe. Examining 7 semen samples, researchers found that removing a set of fibrils from the semen severely diminished HIV's ability to attach to CD4 T white blood cells (immune cells that are HIV's primary target).

From Portland - Statins may reduce death rates among patients hospitalized with the flu, according to a report published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases. Researchers studied over 3,000 patients hospitalized with the flu, finding that those who did not receive statins prior to, or during, hospitalization had a 2x increased risk of death.

And finally, from Maryland - A new report published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology finds that childhood cancer survivors are not at increased risk of having a child with a birth defect. Researchers followed nearly 2800 childhood cancer survivors, finding no noticeable difference in birth defect rates among women who were treated with chemotherapy and radiation and those who did not receive either treatment.
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Stillbirth Risk Raises With Several Maternal Factors; Pathway Regulating Stress Discovered; Large DNA Study Identifies Genes Linked to Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (Video)

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(December 13, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Utah - Several factors may raise risk of stillbirth, according to a report published in JAMA. Researchers studied nearly 2500 deliveries in the US that took place over 2 years. They found that non-Hispanic black race, diabetes, age over 40, AB blood type, a history of drug addiction, smoking 3 months prior to pregnancy, obesity and not living with a partner all independently raised risk of stillbirth.

From Massachusetts - Research published in the Journal of Neuroscience identifies a novel pathway that determines the body's response to stress. Researchers found that neurosteroids control the body's stress response. They able to block this response in a mouse model, effectively preventing stress-induced anxiety in the rodents.

And finally, from Boston - A massive DNA study has found several gene abnormalities implicated in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), according to a report published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Results of comprehensive DNA sequencing revealed five genetic mutations that were commonly associated with the blood cancer, an aspect which may improve predictions on progression of the disease.

Scientists Make Breast Cancer Vaccine Progress; Chemotherapy Alone Improves Blood Cancer Survival; Ready-to-Bake Cookie Dough Linked to E. Coli (Video)

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(December 12, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Georgia - Scientists may be closer to developing a breast cancer vaccine, according to a report published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Researchers developed a synthetic vaccine that was able activate the immune response in a mouse model, significantly shrinking both breast and pancreatic tumours that were 90% similar to human tumors.

From Kingston - Research published in the New England Journal of Medicine finds that chemotherapy alone may improve survival in some blood cancer patients. Randomizing patients with Hodgkin's lymphoma to either chemotherapy alone, radiation plus chemotherapy, or radiation alone, researchers found that those treated with only chemotherapy were more likely to be alive a year after treatment started.

And finally, Atlanta - Ready-to-bake cookie dough has been linked to E. coli, according to a report published in Clinical Infectious Diseases. CDC researchers examined a multi-state E. Coli outbreak in 2009, finding nearly 80 patients who developed illnesses from ready to eat cookie dough, resulting in 35 hospitalizations.

Cardiotoxicity of cancer treatments; Lasting impact of child abuse, neglect; Fish with Omega-3 for heart disease risk (Week in review)

Sun, 11 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EDT

(December 11, 2011, Insidermedicine)

From Euroecho, the annual meeting of the European Association of Echocardiography, researchers are working toward developing protocols for evaluating myocardial damage associated with different cancer treatments. As treatments for cancer have improved survival rates in patients, the long-term effects of these treatments are of growing concern. Cardiotoxicity is a common side-effect of many cancer treatments, and the current research projects aim to identify when patients might benefit from changes in cancer therapy, and when protective treatments against cardiotoxicity are indicated.

From New Haven, researchers at the Yale School of Medicine have found that adolescents exposed to neglect or abuse (either physical or emotional) earlier in life show lastings signs in the form of a reduction in grey matter in their brains. Grey matter is the tissue within the brain that contains brain cells. The researchers noted gender differences in the grey matter deficits: boys tended to lose impulse control and be more prone to substance abuse, while girls showed a tendency toward depression.

From Denmark, young women who eat fish containing omega 3 fatty acids are at reduced risk for heart disease. Looking at women of childbearing age, the researchers from the Technical University of Denmark found that women who never ate fish were at a 90% increased risk of cardiovascular disease as compared to women who ate fish high in omega-3 on a weekly basis.

Breast Cancer Videos: Starch intake & risk; obesity, diabetes & risk; Effective diets for prevention (Week in review)

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EDT

From the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, starch intake has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer recurrence, according to research out of the University of California, San Diego. The researchers followed breast cancer survivors and tracked their dietary starch intake. The results showed that in women with lower-grade tumours, increased starch intake coincided with a 46% increase in risk for breast cancer recurrence.

Also from the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, researchers from Lund University in Sweden have revealed that women over the age of 60 who are diabetic and obese have a significantly higher risk for breast cancer. Obesity itself increased breast cancer risk by 55%, while diabetes increased risk by 37%. The researchers also noted breast cancer risk associated with different diabetes drugs, finding the metformin lowered risk by 8%, while glargine almost doubled the risk.

And finally, intermittent low-carb diets appear to be more successful than daily calorie-restricted diets at reducing weight, and lowering blood levels of insulin, two factors known to be associated with risk for developing cancer. The researchers from the Genesis Prevention Center in Manchester compared a standard calorie-restricted daily Mediterranean diet to two, 2-day-a-week, low-carb diets: one calorie restricted, the other not. The researchers found that both of the intermittent diets were more successful than daily dieting at reducing weight, body fat, and insulin resistance.

Extreme endurance athletes' heart health; Blood pressure medications in dialysis patients; Tuberculosis risk in postpartum mothers (video)

Fri, 9 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(December 9, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Melbourne, athletes engaging extreme endurance exercise may incur damage to the right ventricles of their hearts. While most of the athletes studied showed an apparent reversal of any damage, athletes who had been training and competing in endurance sports for a longer time showed signs of permanent damage in the form of scarring of the heart muscle. This research points to the need for a better understanding of the right ventricle's susceptibility to exercise-induced heart injury. This research should not be misinterpreted as an argument against the health benefits of exercise.

From Washington, two apparently similar classes of medicines for treating high blood pressure have very different impacts on the heart health of dialysis patients. Heart disease is a leading cause of death in dialysis patients. The researchers found that ACE inhibitors were better at preventing blood vessel damage, while Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs) were better at preventing inflammation. This research highlights the need to better understand the different effects of blood pressure-lowering medications on dialysis patients, and to adopt a personalized approach to therapy.

And finally, from the UK, postpartum mothers are at increased risk for tuberculosis in the six months following pregnancy, according to research from the Health Protection Agency and the University of East Anglia. Tuberculosis is an infectious disease that is most effectively managed though early treatment. The current research supports targeted TB screening of pregnant and postpartum women.

Starch intake linked to breast cancer recurrence; BP lowering medications reduce stroke risk in certain patients; Intermittent low-carb most effective for reducing weight (Video)

Thu, 8 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EDT

(December 8, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, starch intake has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer recurrence, according to research out of the University of California, San Diego. The researchers followed breast cancer survivors and tracked their dietary starch intake. The results showed that in women with lower-grade tumours, increased starch intake coincided with a 46% increase in risk for breast cancer recurrence.

From Cleveland, blood pressure medicines prescribed to patients with prehypertension have the effect of lowering the risk of stroke. Researchers from the Harrington-McLaughlin Heart and Vascular Institute found that blood pressure-lowering medicines accounted for a 22% lower risk of stroke in prehypertensive patients, though the risk of heart attack had no significant change. The researchers were quick to point out that lifestyle changes, rather than medications, are the gold standard for addressing prehypertension.

And finally, also from the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, intermittent low-carb diets appear to be more successful than daily calorie-restricted diets at reducing weight, and lowering blood levels of insulin, two factors known to be associated with risk for developing cancer. The researchers from the Genesis Prevention Center in Manchester compared a standard calorie-restricted daily Mediterranean diet to two, 2-day-a-week, low-carb diets: one calorie restricted, the other not. The researchers found that both of the intermittent diets were more successful than daily dieting at reducing weight, body fat, and insulin resistance.

Hispanic women more likely to die of breast cancer; Cardiotoxicity of cancer treatments; Biomarker for ovarian cancer (video)

Wed, 7 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EDT

(December 7, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, Hispanic women are 20% more likely to die from breast cancer than non-Hispanic white women. The researchers from the University of Kentucky also found that Hispanic women who received chemotherapy were 1.5 times more likely to die from breast cancer. The researchers also pointed out that this difference in cancer survival between Hispanic and non-Hispanic white women does not appear to extend to all-cause or non-breast cancer mortality.

From Euroecho, the annual meeting of the European Association of Echocardiography, researchers are working toward developing protocols for evaluating myocardial damage associated with different cancer treatments. As treatments for cancer have improved survival rates in patients, the long-term effects of these treatments are of growing concern. Cardiotoxicity is a common side-effect of many cancer treatments, and the current research projects aim to identify when patients might benefit from changes in cancer therapy, and when protective treatments against cardiotoxicity are indicated.

And finally, from Los Angeles, researchers from the University of Southern California have reported progress toward identifying a blood-based DNA biomarker for ovarian cancer. Such a diagnostic tool could prove very useful in both the early detection of ovarian cancer as well as monitoring for recurrence.

Diabetes, obesity in women over 60 raise breast cancer risk; Omega-3 fish lowers heart disease risk in young women; Fitness level determines risk of death (video)

Tue, 6 Dec 2011 18:45:00 EDT

(December 6, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, researchers from Lund University in Sweden have revealed that women over the age of 60 who are diabetic and obese have a significantly higher risk for breast cancer. Obesity itself increased breast cancer risk by 55%, while diabetes increased risk by 37%. The researchers also noted breast cancer risk associated with different diabetes drugs, finding the metformin lowered risk by 8%, while glargine almost doubled the risk.

From Denmark, young women who eat fish containing omega 3 fatty acids are at reduced risk for heart disease. Looking at women of childbearing age, the researchers from the Technical University of Denmark found that women who never ate fish were at a 90% increased risk of cardiovascular disease as compared to women who ate fish high in omega-3 on a weekly basis.

From South Carolina, fitness level trumps body mass index in reducing death risk, according to research out of the University of South Carolina. The researchers found that improving fitness level, even if body weight remains constant, has the effect of lowering risk of death, while no such link existed between changes in body fat percentage or body weight and death risk. This research emphasizes how critically important physical fitness is to health.

Neutralising HIV with antibodies; Lulling prostate cancer; Health disparity on the rise in the US (Week in review)

Sun, 4 Dec 2011 07:00:00 EDT

From California, researchers at Caltech have found a way to introduce antibodies capable of neutralizing HIV into mice. While the current research demonstrates an effective approach to HIV prevention, it remains to be seen whether this approach can be successfully migrated to a human immune system.

From Illinois, researchers at Souther Illinois University School of Medicine have identified a protein released by bone cells which is capable of putting prostate tumour cells into a state of hibernation. Nearly half of prostate cancer patients face recurrence as a result of metastases. The current research sheds light a new target for therapy: aiming to keep prostate tumour cells in their sleep state.

And finally, from Washington, levels of health disparity are on the rise, in particular among young American adults. Researchers found that, in particular, Americans born since 1980 exhibit a large gap in perceived health. The data also suggests that the disparity between the healthiest and least healthy will continue over the next 1-2 decades.

Measuring treatment effectiveness in Huntington's; Novel treatment for graft-vs-host disease; Health disparity on the rise in the US (video)

Fri, 2 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EDT

(December 2, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From London, researchers have identified and validated a series of objective assessment tools for monitoring the progression of Huntington's disease. Though not impacting the disease directly, the new measures offer an improved assessment of treatments in phase 2 and 3 clinical trials, and greatly advance the development of future treatments.

From Boston, researchers at the Dana-Farber Cancer institute have discovered that an immune system stimulant can, in small doses, act as an immune system suppressant. These findings identify a possible treatment course for patients with active, chronic graft-versus-host disease, a common side-effect arising from stem cell or bone marrow transplantation.

And finally, from Washington, levels of health disparity are on the rise, in particular among young American adults. Researchers found that, in particular, Americans born since 1980 exhibit a large gap in perceived health. The data also suggests that the disparity between the healthiest and least healthy will continue over the next 1-2 decades.

Cancer video: High glucose levels associated with risk of colorectal cancer in postmenopausal women; Stalling breast cancer; Lulling prostate cancer (video)

Thu, 1 Dec 2011 16:15:00 EDT

(December 1, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From New York, researchers at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine have found a link between high blood sugar levels and colorectal cancer in postmenopausal women. The researchers noted a nearly two-fold increase in risk for women in the highest third of baseline glucose levels among the study's participants. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cause of cancer death in the US.

From Philadelphia, scientists at the Kimmel Cancer Center at Jefferson University have discovered a possible way to stall breast cancer cells from growing and spreading throughout the body. Metformin, an off-patent drug used to treat diabetes, seems to act as a mitochondrial inhibitor in breast cancer cells, thus cutting off the cancer cells' supply of energy.

From Illinois, researchers at Souther Illinois University School of Medicine have identified a protein released by bone cells which is capable of putting prostate tumour cells into a state of hibernation. Nearly half of prostate cancer patients face recurrence as a result of metastases. The current research sheds light a new target for therapy: aiming to keep prostate tumour cells in their sleep state.

Risk of Pulmonary Embolism in Autoimmune Patients; Finding the Causal Mechanisms of Autism; New Therapy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (Video)

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 17:15:00 EDT

(November 29, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Sweden, autoimmune disorder patients who have been admitted to hospital are at an increased risk of having a pulmonary embolism. The researchers from Lund University in Sweden looked at over 500,000 autoimune hospital admissions and noted a 6-fold increase in risk of pulmonary embolism within the following year. The research suggests that prophylaxis could be warranted in these patients.

From Palo Alto, researchers studying Timothy Syndrome brains may have unlocked potential clues as to how autism miswires the brain. Timothy Syndrome is a very rare genetic disease whose sufferers exhibit autism-like symptoms. The current research out of Stanford, in following only a single gene mutation, has made it possible to better track specific causal mechanisms within brain cells that may explain autistic behaviour.

And finally, from Baltimore, hypoglossal nerve stimulation may be a viable alternative to continuous positive airway pressure in managing obstructive sleep apnea. Researchers from Johns Hopkins examined the effectiveness of this novel treatment for increasing airflow without rousing patients from sleep. The effectiveness of continuous positive airway pressure is often undermined by low patient adherence.

Cancer Survivors at 2x Increased Risk of Developing Same Cancer; Disrupted Brain Pathways in Children with ADHD; Stem Cells Age & Weaken in the Elderly (Video)

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(November 28, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Denmark - Cancer survivors are at increased risk of developing a second cancer of the same type, according to a report published in CMAJ. Studying data on the entire population of Denmark, researchers found that those who had survived cancer once were at 2.2x increased risk of developing a second primary cancer of the same type.

From New York - Children with ADHD have disrupted brain pathways, according to a report presented at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America. Researchers conducted functional MRI on 18 children with ADHD and 18 controls. Imaging revealed that the ADHD patients had disruptions in the brain pathways involved in visual attention information processing.

And finally, from California - Aging stem cells may be the reason why the elderly are prone to leukemia and infections, according to a report published in PNAS. Researchers compared stem cells from 15 elderly people to 28 young people. Though the elderly patient's stem cells proliferated more and were more abundant, the aging stem cells were much less efficient

Canned Soup Dramatically Increase BPA Levels; Statins Safe Long Term; Exercise Improves Sleep (Week in Review)

Sat, 26 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(November 26, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Boston – Canned soup greatly increases BPA levels in the blood, according to a report published in JAMA. Researchers studied 75 volunteers, randomized to eat canned soup or fresh soup five days a week. Urinalysis revealed that can soup increased BPA levels by 1,221%.

From Oxford - A new report published in the Lancet confirms the safety of statins. 11 year follow up of individuals who participated in the Heart Protection Study found that long term use of statin therapy resulted in increased cardiovascular benefits (reduction in strokes, heart attacks) and even persisted once therapy was stopped.

And finally, from Oregon - A new report published in Mental Health and Physical Activity finds that physical activity can improve sleep quality. Studying over 2,600 adults, researchers found that 150 minutes a week of vigorous activity resulted in a 65% improvement in quality of sleep

Too Much Tylenol In A Day Can Cause Fatal Overdose; Low Risk Pregnant Women Safe to Choose Birth Location; Metformin May Help Prevent Cancer (Video)

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(November 25, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Edinburgh - Too much tylenol over the course of a day can cause a fatal overdose, according to a report published in the British Journal of Pharmacology. Researchers studied nearly 700 acetaminophen-induced liver injuries, finding that ingestion of over 4,000 mg of acetaminophen over eight hours resulted in significantly higher death rates than ingestion of the same amount in one sitting.

From Oxford - Low-risk pregnant women can safely decide where they will give birth, according to a report published in the BMJ. Studying over 64,000 births, researchers found no significant difference in adverse outcomes in all birth settings among women with had low-risk pregnancies.

And finally, from Michigan - A new report published in PLoS ONE identifies a diabetes drug that may help to prevent cancer. Results of a laboratory study found that metformin effectively inhibited the growth of breast cancer cells when exposed to chemicals known to stimulate tumour development

Diabetes Patients Benefit from Vitamin D Enriched Yogurt; Intensive Chemo Regimen Best for Younger Lymphoma Patients; Exercise Improves Sleep (Video)

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EDT

(November 24, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Iran - Diabetics could benefit greatly from vitamin-D enriched yogurt, according to a report published in BMC Medicine. Randomizing patients with type 2 diabetes to either vitamin D-fortified yogurt drink or a plain yogurt drink, researchers found that the vitamin D yogurt resulted in improved cholesterol and endothelial biomarkers.

From France - Intensive chemotherapy greatly improves survival in younger aggressive lymphoma patients, according to a report published in the Lancet. Researchers studied nearly 400 18 year olds with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, randomizing patients to either intensive chemotherapy or standard treatment. Results showed that patients who underwent the intensive regimen had 56% reduced risk of death.

And finally, from Oregon - A new report published in Mental Health and Physical Activity finds that physical activity can improve sleep quality. Studying over 2,600 adults, researchers found that 150 minutes a week of vigorous activity resulted in a 65% improvement in quality of sleep

Canned Soup Raises BPA Levels By Over 1,000%; Processed Meat, Ground Beef Raise Risk of Prostate Cancer; Report Examines Bacteria in Public Washrooms (Video)

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 17:05:00 EDT

(November 23, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Boston – Canned soup greatly increases BPA levels in the blood, according to a report published in JAMA. Researchers studied 75 volunteers, randomized to eat canned soup or fresh soup five days a week. Urinalysis revealed that can soup increased BPA levels by 1,221%.

From San Francisco – Certain types of meat may raise risk of prostate cancer, according to a report published in PLoS ONE. Studying over 1,000 men, researchers found increased consumption of ground beef or processed meats raised risk of prostate cancer and severity of the disease.

And finally, from Colorado – A new report published in PLoS ONE finds that public washrooms are ripe with several different types of bacteria. Researchers conducted genetic testing on several surfaces in 12 public washrooms. They found that the floor had the most types of bacteria, and that human skin was the primary source of the bacteria

Coffee Reduces Risk of Endometrial Cancer; Report Confirms Long Term Safety of Statins; P-Rex1 Protein Fundamental to Melanoma Metastasis (Video)

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EDT

(November 22, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Boston - Coffee may have a protective effect against endometrial cancer, according to a report published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention. Researchers studied data on over 67,000 women, finding that consumption of 4 or more cups of coffee a day reduced risk of endometrial cancer by 25%.

From Oxford - A new report published in the Lancet confirms the safety of statins. 11 year follow up of individuals who participated in the Heart Protection Study found that long term use of statin therapy resulted in increased cardiovascular benefits (reduction in strokes, heart attacks) and even persisted once therapy was stopped.

And finally, from North Carolina - Research published in Nature Communications identifies a protein fundamental to melanoma metastasis. Studying mice, researchers found that rodents with melanoma but lacking the P-Rex1 protein were resistant to metastases.

Low BMI Linked to Early Alzheimer's Disease; Death Rates for Mouth, Pharynx Cancers Falling; Laser Removal OK Treatment for Precancerous Skin Lesions (Video)

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(November 21, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Kansas City - A new report published in Neurology finds a possible connection between early Alzheimer's disease and low BMI. Studying 506 individuals, researchers found that 85% of those who had mild cognitive impairment and a BMI below 25 had signs of early Alzheimer's disease, compared to only 48% of those who were overweight.

From Atlanta - Death rates for mouth and pharynx cancers have decreased in the US, according to a report published in Archives of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery. Studying data from 26 states between 1993-2007, researchers found that mortality rates declined for mouth and pharynx cancer patients, especially among those with over 12 years of education.

And finally, from London - Laser removal may be an alternative treatment for precancerous skin lesions, according to a report published in the Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery. Researchers reviewed data on 73 patients with lentigo maligna, finding that laser ablation of the skin lesion resulted in 6.7% recurrence rates--making the removal process a viable alternative to radiation therapy and surgical excision.

High Childhood IQ Linked to Illegal Drug Use Later in Life; Current Blood Tests Cannot Detect Cancer in Early Stages; Bad Sleep Raises Risk of Fibromyalgia in Women (Week in Review)

Sun, 20 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(November 20, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From the UK - Children with a high IQ may be more likely to use illicit drugs later in life, according to a report published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health. Researchers examined data on nearly 8,000 people that were followed for over 30 years. Results showed that men with high IQ scores at age 5 were 50% more likely to use several illicit drugs by age 30, while women were over 2x more likely to use cocaine and cannabis.

From California - Tumors can grow for 10 years or more before current blood tests are able to detect them, according to a report published in Science Translational Medicine. Researchers from Stanford developed a complex mathematical model to study ovarian tumours. They found that the currently available CA125 blood test can only detect tumours when they have about 1.7billion cells--a size that takes between 10 and 12 years to develop

And finally, from Norway - Poor sleep increases risk of fibromyalgia in women, according to a report published in Arthritis and Rheumatism. Studying over 12,000 women for 10 years, researchers found that those who had regular sleep problems were at much greater risk of developing fibromyalgia

20% Americans Have Hearing Loss; Birth Control Pill May Be Linked to Prostate Cancer; Garlic Oil Component Protects Against Heart Attack Damage (Week in Review)

Sat, 19 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(November 19, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Baltimore - 20% of Americans have hearing loss, according to a report published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. Using data from the 2001-2008 NHANES study, researchers found that 48 million Americans, or 1 in 5, have hearing loss in at least one ear.

From Toronto - Research published in BMJ Open finds a possible connection between oral contraceptive pills and prostate cancer. Researchers compared international cancer registries to information from the United Nations on contraceptive use. They found a significant increase in prostate cancer worldwide corresponding with an increase in the use of contraceptive pills.

And finally, from Atlanta - A component found in garlic oil may protect the heart after a heart attack, according to a report presented at the AHA's Scientific Sessions. Researchers simulated a heart attack in a mouse model, injecting diallyl sulfide afterwards. Results showed that the component reduced the amount of damage to the heart tissue by 61%.

Today's American Adolescents Unhealthiest in US History; Blood Type Linked to Stroke Risk; Excess Vitamin D May Raise Risk of Atrial Fibrillation (Video)

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(November 18, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Chicago - American adolescents are currently the unhealthiest they have ever been, according to a report presented at the AHA Scientific Sessions. Examining over 5,500 children and teens, researchers found that none of the children had diets that were considered healthy, over 30% of boys and 40% of girls had high blood sugar, 35% of girls and boys were overweight or obese, 35% of girls and 27% of boys had high cholesterol, and 52% of girls and 48% of boys had low levels of physical activity.

From Boston - Blood type may influence risk of stroke, according to a report presented at the AHA Scientific Sessions. Studying 90,000 adults and 2900 strokes, researchers found that blood type AB in both men and women raised risk of stroke by 26% compared to those with type O, wile women with type B were at 15% increased risk.

And finally, from Utah - Too much vitamin D may cause atrial fibrillation, according to a report presented at the AHA Scientific Sessions. Researchers studied blood samples from over 130,000 patients, and found that those with excessive levels of vitamin D had a 2.5x increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation.

Cancer Video: Scientists Discover How Cancer Cells Get Their Energy; New Pioneer Factor for Breast Cancer Discovered; Major Weakness Found in Aggressive Prostate Cancer

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(November 17, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From New York - A new report published in Science Translational Medicine identifies how cancer cells obtain enough energy to propagate. Studying 40 different types of human tumours, researchers discovered that cancer cells grow by tapping into the body's natural recycling system. By genetically blocking this process in a mouse model, researchers saw the tumour cells stop spreading and die.

From New Hampshire - Scientists have identified a possible new biomarker for breast cancer, according to a report published in PLoS Genetics. Researchers found that a new factor, PBX1, effectively determines how the body responds to estrogen in breast cancer cells, and that the presence of the factor can predict the risk of the cancer spreading.

And finally, from New York - Research published in Cancer Discovery finds a major weakness in aggressive prostate cancer. Scientists uncovered an achilles heel in neuroendocrine prostate cancer tumours, and found that a targeted drug on a mouse model was able to significantly shrink the rodent's tumours.

Blood Tests Cannot Detect Cancer Until Tumors Are 10 Years Along; Abnormal Teenage Weight Linked to Drug Use; Garlic Oil Component Protects Damage From Heart Attack (Video)

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(November 16, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From California - Tumors can grow for 10 years or more before current blood tests are able to detect them, according to a report published in Science Translational Medicine. Researchers from Stanford developed a complex mathematical model to study ovarian tumours. They found that the currently available CA125 blood test can only detect tumours when they have about 1.7billion cells--a size that takes between 10 and 12 years to develop.

From Italy - Teens with abnormal weight may be more likely to take illegal drugs, according to a report published in PLoS ONE. Studying over 33,000 teens, researchers found that those who were either underweight or overweight were up to 40% more likely to consume illegal drugs.

And finally, from Atlanta - A component found in garlic oil may protect the heart after a heart attack, according to a report presented at the AHA's Scientific Sessions. Researchers simulated a heart attack in a mouse model, injecting diallyl sulfide afterwards. Results showed that the component reduced the amount of damage to the heart tissue by 61%.

Prostate Cancer Video: High IQ in Childhood Linked to Drug Use; Oral Contraceptive Pills May Be Connected to Prostate Cancer; Alcoholics At Raised Risk of Cancer, Death

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(November 15, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From the UK - Children with a high IQ may be more likely to use illicit drugs later in life, according to a report published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health. Researchers examined data on nearly 8,000 people that were followed for over 30 years. Results showed that men with high IQ scores at age 5 were 50% more likely to use several illicit drugs by age 30, while women were over 2x more likely to use cocaine and cannabis.

From Toronto - Research published in BMJ Open finds a possible connection between oral contraceptive pills and prostate cancer. Researchers compared international cancer registries to information from the United Nations on contraceptive use. They found a significant increase in prostate cancer worldwide corresponding with an increase in the use of contraceptive pills.

And finally, from Italy - Alcoholics are at increased risk of dying from any cause and from cancer, according to a report published in Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research. Studying data over 2200 alcoholics, researchers that alcoholism significantly increased risk of dying from diabetes, infections, respiratory and cardiovascular diseases as well as from several types of cancers.

20% of Americans Have Hearing Loss; Antibiotic Shows Promise Against Leukemia; Poor Sleep Raises Fibromyalgia Risk in Women (Video)

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(November 14, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Baltimore - 20% of Americans have hearing loss, according to a report published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. Using data from the 2001-2008 NHANES study, researchers found that 48 million Americans, or 1 in 5, have hearing loss in at least one ear.

From Toronto - Research published in Cancer Cell identifies a possible new treatment for leukaemia. Researchers studied the effects of hundreds of older drugs on leukaemia stem cells. They found that tigecycline--an antibiotic used to treat skin and abdominal infections--was able to target and destroy the stem cells.

And finally, from Norway - Poor sleep increases risk of fibromyalgia in women, according to a report published in Arthritis and Rheumatism. Studying over 12,000 women for 10 years, researchers found that those who had regular sleep problems were at much greater risk of developing fibromyalgia

Breakthrough May Enable Personalized Cancer Treatment; Mini Strokes Shorten Lifespan; Targeting Brain Area May Improve Parkinson's Disease (Week in Review)

Sun, 13 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(November 13, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Boston - A novel screening method outlined in the Annals of Oncology may greatly improve cancer survival. For the first time, researchers developed a clinical test that examines cancer-causing genetic mutations in over 14 cancer genes. The test, known as SNaPshot, may enable doctors to tailor treatment to each patient's unique genetic mutation--greatly improving response and survival rates.

From Australia - Mini-strokes can dramatically shorten life expectancy, according to a report published in Stroke. Researchers examined data on over 22,000 adults who suffered a transient ischemic attack (or a mini-stroke). After 9 years followup, researchers found that these patients saw their life expectancy drop by 20%.

And finally, from London - A new report published in PLoS Biology finds that targeting an area of the brain can help improve symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Studying mice, researchers found that eliminating one neurotransmitter in the brain associated with Parkinson's increased dopamine production and consequently improved motor symptoms of the disease.

HPV Vaccine Reduces Cervical Cancer Rates; Clocks Going Forward Improves Children's Fitness; Woodsmoke and Pneumonia (Week in Review)

Sat, 12 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(November 12, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Finland - The HPV vaccine can greatly reduce incidence of cervical cancer, according to a report published in the Lancet Oncology. Studying nearly 20,000 women, researchers found that the vaccine was 93% effective at preventing the development of high-grade cervical precancers in healthy women, and 100% effective at preventing at preventing adenocarcinoma.

From the UK - Turning the clocks forward may benefit children's health, according to a report published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health. Studying over 300 children, researchers found that physical activity was highest on long summer days between 5 and 8pm, regardless of the weather, indicating that daylight itself may spike activity.

And finally, from California - Woodsmoke from cooking fires--used by 3 billion people worldwide--may cause pneumonia in children. In a study published in the Lancet, researchers found a 33% reduction the amount of childhood pneumonia cases in homes with chimney-stoves, compared to homes with open fires

Report Questions Effect of Reducing Salt Consumption; Football Players At Raised Risk of Poor Mental, Physical Health; EEG Detects Brain Activity in Vegetative State (Video)

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(November 11, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Denmark - Research published in the American Journal of Hypertension finds that reducing salt in the diet may not protect against heart disease. Results of a meta-analysis covering over 160 studies found that while reduced salt consumption did lower blood pressure it adversely raised cholesterol and triglycerides.

From Missouri - Football players are at increased risk of late-life health problems, according to a report published in Physician and Sportsmedicine. Comparing former football players to non-collision sport athletes and non-athletes, researchers found that the football players were at increased risk of poor physical and mental health in later life. Researchers also found that changing the diet in these athletes could improve their long term health.

And finally, from London - An EEG can detect awareness in people thought to be in a vegetative state, according to a report published in the Lancet. Researchers compared 12 healthy controls to 16 patients in a vegetative state, finding that 3 of the patients in a vegetative state showed brain activity on an EEG, when asked to imagine moving their fingers or toes.

Mini Strokes Shorten Life; Over 110,000 Children Die From Flu Related Illness Each Year; Woodsmoke from Fires Used to Cook May Cause Pneumonia (Video)

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(November 10, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Australia - Mini-strokes can dramatically shorten life expectancy, according to a report published in Stroke. Researchers examined data on over 22,000 adults who suffered a transient ischemic attack (or a mini-stroke). After 9 years followup, researchers found that these patients saw their life expectancy drop by 20%.

From Scotland - 1 million children are hospitalized annually due to the flu, according to a report published in the Lancet. Results of a meta-analysis covering over 43 studies found that 90 million children under the age 5 contract the flu every year, resulting in 1 million hospitalizations and nearly 112000 deaths.

And finally, from California - Woodsmoke from cooking fires--used by 3 billion people worldwide--may cause pneumonia in children. In a study published in the Lancet, researchers found a 33% reduction the amount of childhood pneumonia cases in homes with chimney-stoves, compared to homes with open fires.

Cancer Video: Potential Breakthrough in Cancer Screening, Treatment; Clocks Going Forward May Encourage Kids to Exercise; Fatherhood Reduces A Man's Bad Habits

Wed, 9 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(November 9, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Boston - A novel screening method outlined in the Annals of Oncology may greatly improve cancer survival. For the first time, researchers developed a clinical test that examines cancer-causing genetic mutations in over 14 cancer genes. The test, known as SNaPshot, may enable doctors to tailor treatment to each patient's unique genetic mutation--greatly improving response and survival rates.

From the UK - Turning the clocks forward may benefit children's health, according to a report published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health. Studying over 300 children, researchers found that physical activity was highest on long summer days between 5 and 8pm, regardless of the weather, indicating that daylight itself may spike activity.

And finally, from Oregon - A new report published in the Journal of Marriage and Family finds that fatherhood significantly reduce a man's bad habits. Results of a 19-year study following 200 at-risk boys found crime, tobacco, alcohol and drug used declined significantly once the boys became fathers

Cervical Cancer Video: HPV Vaccine Can Greatly Reduce Cervical Cancers; Bypass After Mini-Stroke Does Not Reduce Stroke Risk; Targeting Brain Region May Improve Parkinson's

Tue, 8 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EDT

(November 8, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Finland - The HPV vaccine can greatly reduce incidence of cervical cancer, according to a report published in the Lancet Oncology. Studying nearly 20,000 women, researchers found that the vaccine was 93% effective at preventing the development of high-grade cervical precancers in healthy women, and 100% effective at preventing at preventing adenocarcinoma.

From North Carolina - Patients who undergo a certain surgical procedure after a mini stroke do not have a reduced risk of stroke, according to a report published in JAMA. Researchers randomized nearly 100 mini stroke patients to either EC-IC bypass surgery or medical therapy alone. Results showed that the operation did not reduce risk of stroke after two years.

And finally, from London - A new report published in PLoS Biology finds that targeting an area of the brain can help improve symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Studying mice, researchers found that eliminating one neurotransmitter in the brain associated with Parkinson's increased dopamine production and consequently improved motor symptoms of the disease.

Stroke Risk Factors Raise Risk of Cognitive Impairment; Birth Control Pills Containing Drospirenone Linked to Blood Clots; Depressed Dads May Cause Emotional Problems in Kids (Video)

Mon, 7 Nov 2011 17:05:00 EDT

(Novmeber 7, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Alabama - Stroke risk factors also increase likelihood of cognitive problems, according to a report published in Neurology. Studying over 30,000 individuals aged 45 and older, researchers found that left ventricular hypertrophy (a significant risk factor for stroke) raised risk of cognitive impairment by 30%, and that every 10 year increment in age raised risk twofold. (

From Israel - A certain type of birth control pill may raise risk of blood clots, according to a report published in CMAJ. Researchers reviewed data on over 320,000 women taking oral contraceptives, finding a significant increased risk for blood clots among those taking pills containing drospirenone.

And finally, from New York - Research published in Pediatrics finds that children are more likely to demonstrate emotional problems if their father is depressed. Studying nearly 22,000 children aged 5-17, researchers found that children with depressed dads were 72% more likely to have emotional and behavioural problem

BRCA Mutation In Family Does Not Increase Risk in Non-Carriers; Poor Pregnant Sleep Linked to Preterm Birth; Legalization of Medicinal Marijuana Has No Effect on Youth (Week in Review)

Sun, 6 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(Novmeber 6, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From California - Women who do not have the BRCA mutation but have relatives who do are not at increased risk of breast cancer, according to a report published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology. Researchers studied over 3000 families, finding no elevated breast cancer risk for non-carriers of the genetic mutation who had family members who were carriers.

From Pittsburgh - Poor sleep while pregnant may raise risk of preterm birth. In a study published in Sleep, researchers found that women who had sleep disruptions in the first and third trimesters were much more likely to deliver a child prior to full term.

And finally, from Rhode Island - Legalization of medicinal marijuana does not appear to affect use among youth, according to a report presented at the American Public Health Association's annual meeting. Examining nearly 33,000 students, researchers found that Rhode Island's legalization of medical marijuana in 2006 did not adversely increase use among the youth

DIY Test For Cervical Cancer Very Accurate; Exercise Reduces Effect of Fat Mass and Obesity Gene; Stroke Patients With Dementia May Not Return Home (Week in Review)

Sat, 5 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(November 5, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From London - A do-it-yourself test may dramatically improve cervical cancer screening, according to a report published in the Lancet. Researchers studied over 20,000 women, half of whom took a DIY screening test for cervical cancer while the other half had a smear test. Results showed that, not only was the DIY test preferred among women, but the test also detected 4x as many cervical cancers as the smear test.

From the UK - Exercise can reduce the effects of the obesity gene, according to a report published in PLoS Medicine. Reviewing data on over 218,000 adults, researchers found that the effects of the fat mass and obesity associated gene was 1.2x less pronounced in individuals who were physically active.

And finally, from Toronto - Dementia patients who suffer a stroke are less likely to return home afterwards, according to a report published in Neurology. Studying nearly 10,000 patients who suffered a stroke, researchers found that only 24% of those who had dementia returned home following the event, compared to 45% of those without dementia.

COPD Video: No Link Between Vitamin D and COPD Attacks; New Drug Shows Promise in Treating Cystic Fibrosis; Mediterranean Diet Also Helps Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Fri, 4 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(Novmeber 4, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Minneapolis - Research published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine finds no connection between low vitamin D levels and COPD exacerbations. Studying nearly 1000 COPD patients, researchers found that low vitamin D levels--common in those with severe COPD--did not increase risk of acute exacerbations.

From Washington - A new drug may help improve symptoms of cystic fibrosis, according to a report published in the NEJM. Researchers randomized over 160 children with CF to either placebo or the drug ivacaftor. Results showed that the drug improved lung function after just two weeks, and that after 48 weeks, children taking invacaftor were 55% less likely to suffer an exacerbation.

And finally, from Greece - The mediterranean diet can help reduce symptoms of sleep apnea, according to a report published in the European Respiratory Journal. Researchers studied nearly 40 obese sleep apnea patients, finding that those eating a mediterranean diet and exercising regularly had a reduced amount of sleep disturbances and abdominal fat

Radiotherapy & Hormone Therapy Improve Prostate Cancer Survival; Chantix Strongly Linked to Suicidal Behaviors, Depression; Vitamin D Does Not Reduce Mortality in Older Women (Video)

Thu, 3 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(November 3, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Toronto - Radiotherapy plus hormone therapy improves survival in prostate cancer patients, according to a report published in the Lancet. Researchers randomized over 1200 prostate cancer patients to either hormone therapy alone or radiotherapy in addition to hormone therapy. After seven years, 74% of men who received the combination therapy were still alive, compared with 66% of those in the hormone therapy group.

From Boston - Chantix is much more likely to cause depression and suicidal behaviour than other smoking cessation therapies, according to a report published in PLoS One. Researchers studied over 3200 cases of serious self injury linked to use of Chantix, bupropion, or nicotine replacement products. They found that 90% of these cases were linked to Chantix, resulting in an 8x increased risk of suicidal behaviour or depression.

And finally, from Rhode Island - Vitamin D in older women does not improve mortality, according to a report published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Studying over 2400 postmenopausal women for 10 years, researchers found that increased vitamin D levels did not appear to reduce risk of dying from cancer or heart disease.

Do-It-Yourself Cervical Cancer Test Very Accurate; Biking Instead of Driving Saves Money and Lives; Legal Medicinal Marijuana Does Not Increase Use Among Youth (Video)

Wed, 2 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(November 2, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From London - A do-it-yourself test may dramatically improve cervical cancer screening, according to a report published in the Lancet. Researchers studied over 20,000 women, half of whom took a DIY screening test for cervical cancer while the other half had a smear test. Results showed that, not only was the DIY test preferred among women, but the test also detected 4x as many cervical cancers as the smear test.

From Wisconsin - A new report published in Environmental Health Perspectives finds that biking instead of driving can save a significant amount of lives and money. Researchers estimated that replacing short car trips with bicycle trips in the warmest six months of the year could save up to 7 billion dollars and 1100 lives annually, due to improvements in air quality and physical fitness.

And finally, from Rhode Island - Legalization of medicinal marijuana does not appear to affect use among youth, according to a report presented at the American Public Health Association's annual meeting. Examining nearly 33,000 students, researchers found that Rhode Island's legalization of medical marijuana in 2006 did not adversely increase use among the youth

Exercise Reduces Effect of Obesity Gene; Poor Sleep While Pregnant Linked to Preterm Birth; Organ Transplant Recipients At Higher Risk of Several Cancers (Video)

Tue, 1 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(November 1, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From the UK - Exercise can reduce the effects of the obesity gene, according to a report published in PLoS Medicine. Reviewing data on over 218,000 adults, researchers found that the effects of the fat mass and obesity associated gene was 1.2x less pronounced in individuals who were physically active.

From Pittsburgh - Poor sleep while pregnant may raise risk of preterm birth. In a study published in the Sleep, researchers found that women who had sleep disruptions in the first and third trimesters were much more likely to deliver a child prior to full term.

And finally, from Maryland - Research published in JAMA finds that organ transplant patients may be at raised risk for several types of cancer. Studying nearly 200,000 organ transplants that took place over a 20 year period, researchers found that recipients were at increased risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma as well as lung, liver and kidney cancer.

BRCA Mutations in Relatives Does Not Increase Breast Cancer Risk in Non-Carriers; Smoking Linked to Colorectal Cancer in Women; Dementia Patients and Stroke (Video)

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(October 31, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Connecticut - Cigarettes raise risk of colorectal cancer in women--even after they quit, according to research presented at the American College of Gastroenterology's annual meeting. Studying over 2400 women, researchers found a significant increased risk for colorectal cancer among those who had quit within 5 years of colonoscopy screening.

And finally, from Toronto - Dementia patients who suffer a stroke are less likely to return home afterwards, according to a report published in Neurology. Studying nearly 10,000 patients who suffered a stroke, researchers found that only 24% of those who had dementia returned home following the event, compared to 45% of those without dementia.

Coffee Lowers Risk of Common Skin Cancer; Obesity Inhibits Effectiveness of Flu Shot; Poverty May Affect Child's Readiness for School (Week in Review)

Sun, 30 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(October 30, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Boston - A new report presented at the International Conference on Frontiers in Cancer Prevention Research finds that coffee may lower risk of basal cell carcinoma. Studying data on over 100,000 adults, researchers found that women who drank 3 or more cups of coffee a day had a 20% reduced risk of BCC, while men who drank 3 or more cups a day had a 9% reduced risk.

From North Carolina - Research published in the International Journal of Obesity finds that obesity may make flu shots less effective. Studying blood samples from volunteers who received the seasonal flu vaccine in 2009, researchers found that obese individuals had their antibody levels decrease much faster than individuals of a healthy weight.

From Washington, stress associated with poverty affects a child's readiness for school. Research published in the Child Development identified the way in which early stresses in the lives of children living in poverty affect the cognitive functions associated with the processing of new and confusing information, behaviour regulation, and adjusting to school. The children living in poverty were seen to have increased levels of the stress hormone cortisol, and this in turn was seen to have an inverse relationship to levels of executive cognitive function.

Too Much Pop May Make Teens Violent; Insomnia Raises Risk of Heart Attack; Genetic Cause for Rare Form of AMD (Week in Review)

Sat, 29 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(October 29, 2011 - Insidemedicine)

From Boston - A diet high in fizzy pop consumption may raise aggression in teens, according to a report published in Injury Prevention. Researchers studied nearly 2000 teens from over 20 schools, finding that the more fizzy soft drinks a teen consumed per week, the more likely they were to be violent to a partner, peer or sibling.

From Norway - Insomnia raises risk of heart attack, according to a report published in Circulation. Studying over 52,000 adults, researchers found that those who had daily trouble falling asleep over a month long period had a 45% increased risk of heart attack.

And finally, from Boston - A new report published in Nature Genetics identifies a genetic mutation that increases risk of age-related macular degeneration. Comparing DNA sequences of over 2400 AMD patients to 1100 controls, researchers found a very rare genetic mutation that was strongly linked to familial AMD and early onset of the disease.

Genetic Cause Found for Age-Related Mental Decline; Acetaminophen Linked to Renal Cell Carcinoma Risk; Stress From Poverty May Affect Child's School Performance (Video)

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(October 28, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

?From Palo Alto, scientists have discovered the genetics of age-related mental decline in men. The research, published online in Translational Psychiatry, identifies a variation in the coding pattern of a single gene which seems to have a significant effect on the rate at which men's intellectual function drops with advancing age.?

From Boston, research presented at the International Conference on Frontiers in Cancer Prevention Research has identified that acetaminophen and nonaspirin nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory analgesics were associated with an increased risk for developing renal cell carcinoma. The research showed that no such risk was associated with the use of aspirin, while acetaminophen was associated with a 33% increased risk of RCC, while other NSAIDs were associated with a 26% increased risk.

F?rom Washington, stress associated with poverty affects a child's readiness for school. Research published in the Child Development identified the way in which early stresses in the lives of children living in poverty affect the cognitive functions associated with the processing of new and confusing information, behaviour regulation, and adjusting to school. The children living in poverty were seen to have increased levels of the stress hormone cortisol, and this in turn was seen to have an inverse relationship to levels of executive cognitive function.?

Lung Cancer Video: Annual Chest X Rays May Not Reduce Lung Cancer Deaths; Insomnia Linked to Elevated Heart Attack Risk; Heart Disease Also Affects Young and Healthy

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(October 26, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Minnesota- Research presented at the annual meeting of the American College of Chest Physicians finds that annual chest X-rays do not reduce lung cancer death rates.Researchers studied nearly 155,000 individuals, half of whom were assigned to annual chest x ray screening and the other half assigned to usual care. After 4 years, results showed that those in the x ray screening group did not have significantly lower lung cancer death rates.

From Norway - Insomnia raises risk of heart attack, according to a report published in Circulation. Studying over 52,000 adults, researchers found that those who had daily trouble falling asleep over a month long period had a 45% increased risk of heart attack.

And finally, from Quebec - Atherosclerosis affects a large amount of young men and women, according to a report released by the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Researchers examined nearly 200 young adults with no history of heart disease or any known risk factors. Results showed that a significant number of the participants had discrete signs of atherosclerosis, such as visceral fat and larger waist circumference.,

Tanning Beds Linked to Skin Cancer Risk; Obesity May Inhibit Vaccine's Effectiveness; CT Scans for Lung Cancer Can Also Help Diagnose COPD (Video)

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(October 25, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Boston - Tanning beds raise risk of skin cancer, according to a report presented at the International Conference on Frontiers in Cancer Prevention Research. Studying data on over 73,000 individuals, researchers food that for every four visits made to a tanning bed per year, risk of basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma increased by 15%, while the risk of melanoma increased by 11%.

From North Carolina - Research published in the International Journal of Obesity finds that obesity may make flu shots less effective. Studying blood samples from volunteers who received the seasonal flu vaccine in 2009, researchers found that obese individuals had their antibody levels decrease much faster than individuals of a healthy weight.

And finally, from the Netherlands - CT scans can also be used to detect COPD, according to a report published in JAMA. Researchers studied over 1100 men undergoing CT scans for lung cancer screening. They found that the imaging was also able to identify 100% of participants who had severe obstruction in their lungs.

Skin Cancer Video: Too Much Pop May Make Teens Violent; Coffee May Lower Risk of Basal Cell Carcinoma; HPV May Raise Risk of Heart Disease in Women

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 18:30:00 EDT

(October 24, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Boston - A diet high in fizzy pop consumption may raise aggression in teens, according to a report published in Injury Prevention. Researchers studied nearly 2000 teens from over 20 schools, finding that the more fizzy soft drinks a teen consumed per week, the more likely they were to be violent to a partner, peer or sibling.

Shift Work May Raise Risk of MS in Teens; Accurate Down Syndrome Blood Test on the Horizon; Yearly Mammograms Linked to High False Positive Rates (Week in Review)

Sun, 23 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(October 23, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Sweden - Teens who do shift work may be at increased risk of multiple sclerosis, according to a report published in the Annals of Neurology. Researchers examined two studies covering over 13,000 individuals, finding that teens who worked night shifts or rotating working hours for three or more years had up to 2x increased risk of developing MS.

From Rhode Island - A new blood test may significantly improve detection of Down syndrome, according to a report published in Genetics in Medicine. Researchers studied the blood test, called MaterniT21 LDT, in over 4000 pregnant women. Results showed that the blood test 98.6% accurate at detecting Down syndrome, with a sensitivity of 99% and specificity of 99%.

And finally, from Seattle - Annual mammography screening is associated with a high rate of false positive results, according to a report published in the Annals of Internal Medicine. Studying nearly 170,000 women, researchers found that half of those who began testing at 40 instead of 50 would be summoned for more testing due to a false positive mammogram.

3 Factors May Help Predict Mortality After Surgery; Low Birth-weight Babies at Raised Risk of Autism; AAP Recommends No TV For Children Under 2 (Week in Review)

Sat, 22 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(October 22, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From North Carolina - A new report presented at the meeting for the American Society of Anesthesiologists outlines 3 medical factors that may help predict death after surgery. Studying data on almost 20,000 surgery patients, researchers found that low measurements in median arterial pressure, medic anesthetic concentration and the bispectral index combined to raise risk of death by 2.5x 1 year after surgery.

From Pennsylvania - Low birthweight babies are at significantly raised risk of autism, according to a report published in Pediatrics. Results of a 21 year study found that infants born between 500 to 2000 grams and 4.4 lbs were 5x more likely to have autism than children born at a normal weight.

And finally, from Boston - A new report released by the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children under the age of 2 should not be watching any television. Researchers found that children learn better from unstructured play and interaction with humans than from watching a screen, and that too much media use for a child under 2 could impair language delay and sleep habits as well.

Radiotherapy Following Breast Conserving Surgery Halves Breast Cancer Recurrence Risk; New Blood Test for Down Syndrome; No TV Recommended for Kids Under 2 (Video)

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(October 20, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From the UK - Radiotherapy following breast conserving surgery dramatically reduces risk of breast cancer recurrence, according to a report published in the Lancet. Results of a long term study following over 10,000 breast cancer patients found that women who underwent radiotherapy after breast conserving surgery had nearly 50% reduced 10-year risk of recurrence, and nearly 17% reduced 15-year risk.

From Rhode Island - A new blood test may significantly improve detection of Down syndrome, according to a report published in Genetics in Medicine. Researchers studied the blood test, called MaterniT21 LDT, in over 4000 pregnant women. Results showed that the blood test 98.6% accurate at detecting Down syndrome, with a sensitivity of 99% and specificity of 99%.

And finally, from Boston - A new report released by the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children under the age of 2 should not be watching any television. Researchers found that children learn better from unstructured play and interaction with humans than from watching a screen, and that too much media use for a child under 2 could impair language delay and sleep habits as well.

3 Factors Found to Raise Risk of Death After Surgery; Early Pregnancy High Blood Pressure Linked to Birth Defects; Steroids in Preemies Impairs Brain Growth (Video)

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(October 19, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From North Carolina - A new report presented at the meeting for the American Society of Anesthesiologists outlines 3 medical factors that may help predict death after surgery. Studying data on almost 20,000 surgery patients, researchers found that low measurements in median arterial pressure, medic anesthetic concentration and the bispectral index combined to raise risk of death by 2.5x 1 year after surgery.

From California - Early pregnancy hypertension raises risk of birth defects, according to a report published in the British Medical Journal. Researchers examined nearly 500,000 mother-child pairs, finding that women with high blood pressure in the first trimester were more likely to have a child with a birth defect, regardless of the anti-hypertensive medication she was on.

And finally, from California - Steroids given to preterm babies may impair their brain growth, according to a report published in Science Translational Medicine. Studying nearly 200 premature babies, researchers found that those given low dose steroids had smaller cerebellar volumes when they became full term.

Hair Care Professionals May Help Find Skin Cancer Lesions (Interview with Dr. Elizabeth Bailey, MD, Brigham and Women's Hospital)

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EDT

(October 18, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

Some hair care professionals are already checking their clients for suspicious skin lesions and many others are interesting in learning more about skin cancer and how to detect it, according to research published in the Archives of Dermatology.

The three main types of skin cancer are:

•   Basal cell carcinoma, the most common form but also the easiest to treat

•   Squamous cell carcinoma, the second most common type of skin cancer and also highly treatable

•   Malignant melanoma, the rarest and deadliest form that can be difficult to treat if left to spread for too long

Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard School of Public Health in Boston surveyed more than 200 hair care experts from a chain of 17 salons located in the greater Houston area about whether they check their customers’ scalp, neck, and face for skin lesions that could be cancerous.

While only 28% of respondents reported that they had received formal education in skin care, nearly 50% reported that they would be “very” or “extremely” interested in receiving such education. In the previous month, 37% of respondents reported that they checked more than 50% of their customers’ scalps for suspicious lesions, 30% reported that they checked more than 50% of their customers’ necks, and 15% reported checking their customers’ faces for potentially cancerous lesions. Hair professionals who communicated about health issues more frequently with their clients and who themselves maintained a personal skin protection program were more likely to be checking their clients for suspicious skin lesions. Interestingly, however, those hair professionals with more knowledge about skin cancer were not necessarily more likely to be checking clients.

We spoke with Dr. Elizabeth Bailey, the primary investigator of this study, who offered some further insight.

Today’s research highlights the potential role that hair professionals could play in both educating the public about skin cancer and helping detect suspicious lesions that might require closer scrutiny from a health care professional.

Multiple Sclerosis Video: Teens Doing Shift Work at Double the Risk of MS; Aging Protein Also Involved in Cancer; Report Examines Common Causes of SIDS

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(October 18, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Sweden - Teens who do shift work may be at increased risk of multiple sclerosis, according to a report published in the Annals of Neurology. Researchers examined two studies covering over 13,000 individuals, finding that teens who worked night shifts or rotating working hours for three or more years had up to 2x increased risk of developing MS.

From Tennessee - Research published in Cancer Cell identifies a protein associated with both aging and cancer. Results of an animal study found that the aging-associated protein SIRT2 also worked as a tumour suppressing protein, and that lower levels of the protein led to development of gender-specific tumours in the rodents.

And finally, from New Mexico - A new report presented at the American Academy of Pediatrics National Conference emphasizes the need for educating parents on how to prevent SIDS. Studying nearly 100 deaths of children under the age of 1, researchers found that 52% of those caused by SIDS happened when the child wasn't put to sleep on their back, while 71% happened because the child slept on an unsafe surface.

5x Increased Risk of Autism for Babies Under 4 lbs; Scientists Discover Neural Cell Linked to Lou Gehrig's Disease; Annual Mammograms Result in Many False Positive Results (Video)

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(October 17, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Pennsylvania - Low birthweight babies are at significantly raised risk of autism, according to a report published in Pediatrics. Results of a 21 year study found that infants born between 500 to 2000 grams and 4.4 lbs were 5x more likely to have autism than children born at a normal weight.

From Oregon - Scientists have discovered a neural cell associated ALS, according to a report published in PNAS. Researchers found a previously unknown astrocyte cell that is 10x more toxic than any other astrocyte cell. They found this cell was connected to dying motor neuron cells in an animal model with ALS.

And finally, from Seattle - Annual mammography screening is associated with a high rate of false positive results, according to a report published in the Annals of Internal Medicine. Studying nearly 170,000 women, researchers found that half of those who began testing at 40 instead of 50 would be summoned for more testing due to a false positive mammogram.

Pesticides Linked to Heart Disease; Folic Acid Lowers Risk of Severe Language Delay in Child; Disabled Men at Risk of Sexual Assault (Week in Review)

Sun, 16 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(October 16, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Sweden - Environmental toxicants may raise risk of heart disease, according to a report published in Environmental Health Perspectives. Researchers examined the circulating levels of PCBs, dioxins, and pesticides in nearly 1000 adults, finding that elevated levels of these toxicants were strongly associated with atherosclerosis.

From Norway - Folic acid supplementation in early pregnancy reduces risk of language delay in the child, according to a report published in JAMA. Studying nearly 40,000 children, researchers found that use of folic acid from 4 weeks prior to 8 weeks following conception was associated with a significantly reduced risk of severe language delay in the child at age 3.

And finally, from Massachusetts - Men with disabilities are at significant increased risk of being sexually assaulted, according to a report published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine. Researchers examined data on nearly 22,000 individuals, finding that men with disabilities were 4x more likely to be a victim of sexual assault than men without disabilities.

Healthy Diet Impairs Heart Disease Gene; Half of Epileptics Remain Seizure Free Following Surgery; Chocolate Lowers Stroke Risk in Women (Week in Review)

Sat, 15 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(October 15, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Hamilton - A diet high in fruits and vegetables can reduce risk of heart disease in some high risk individuals, according to a report published in PLoS Medicine. Researchers examined how diet affected the strongest biomarker for heart disease--the 9p21 gene. Studying 27,000 individuals, researchers found that the gene's effect was reduced when an individual ate lots of fruits and vegetables.

From London - Only half of epilepsy patients remain seizure free following surgery, according to a report published in the Lancet. Researchers studied 615 epileptics who underwent surgery for their condition, finding that 52% of patients were seizure free at 5 years following their operation, and only 47% were seizure free at 10 years.

And finally, from Sweden - Chocolate may reduce risk of stroke in women, according to a report published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. Studying over 33,000 women between 49 and 83 years old, researchers found that those who consumed the most chocolate had a 20% reduced risk of stroke

Exercise in Early Pregnancy May Improve Heart Health; Unmarried Men and Risk of Dying from Cancer; Serious Injury Risk for Heavy and Moderate Drinkers (Video)

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(October 14, 2011 - Insidemedicine)

From Mississippi - Exercise in early pregnancy may improve blood vessel health, according to a report presented at the Physiology of Cardiovascular Disease: Gender Disparities conference. Results of an animal study found that exercise before conception and in early pregnancy resulted in increased vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a protein that helps maintain blood vessel health and also stimulates new blood vessel growth.

From Norway - Men who have never been married are more likely to die from cancer, according to a report published in BMC Public Health. Studying nearly 40 years of data on men diagnosed with cancer, researchers found that not only were unmarried men more likely to die from cancer, but also that their risk increased from 18% in 1970 to 35% in 2007.

And finally, from Maryland - A new report published in Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research examines serious injury risk among moderate and heavy drinkers. Studying national data on alcohol consumption, researchers found that heavy drinkers were at 4.5x increased risk of serious injury when alcohol-positive, while moderate drinkers who sometimes drank heavily were at even greater risk of injury while alcohol positive.

Epilepsy Surgery Does Not Cure Seizures in Half of Patients; Green Veggies Improve Immune System; Disabled Men At Significantly Increased Risk of Being Sexually Abused (Video)

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(October 13, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From London - Only half of epilepsy patients remain seizure free following surgery, according to a report published in the Lancet. Researchers studied 615 epileptics who underwent surgery for their condition, finding that 52% of patients were seizure free at 5 years following their operation, and only 47% were seizure free at 10 years.

From Cambridge - Green vegetables may improve the immune system, according to a report published in Cell. Studying mice, researchers found that green vegetables contain a chemical signal that is ensures that immune cells in the gut and skin function properly.

And finally, from Massachusetts - Men with disabilities are at significant increased risk of being sexually assaulted, according to a report published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine. Researchers examined data on nearly 22,000 individuals, finding that men with disabilities were 4x more likely to be a victim of sexual assault than men without disabilities.

Vitamin D Helps Immune Response to TB; Pesticides, Dioxins Strongly Associated with Atherosclerosis; Chocolate May Reduce Stroke Risk in Women (Video)

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(October 12, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From California - Research published in Science Translational Medicine finds that vitamin D has a vital role in the immune response to TB. Testing TB on blood samples from healthy adults, researchers found that the immune response was not activated in those deficient in vitamin D. Once vitamin D was added, however, the immune response was effectively triggered.

From Sweden - Environmental toxicants may raise risk of heart disease, according to a report published in Environmental Health Perspective. Researchers examined the circulating levels of PCBs, dioxins, and pesticides in nearly 1000 adults, finding that elevated levels of these toxicants were strongly associated with atherosclerosis.

And finally, from Sweden - Chocolate may reduce risk of stroke in women, according to a report published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. Studying over 33,000 women between 49 and 83 years old, researchers found that those who consumed the most chocolate had a 20% reduced risk of stroke.

Fruits, Veggies May Lower Heart Disease Risk; Folic Acid in Early Pregnancy Reduces Language Delay in Child; Restless Leg in Women Linked to High Blood Pressure Risk (Video)

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(October 11, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Hamilton - A diet high in fruits and vegetables can reduce risk of heart disease in some high risk individuals, according to a report published in PLoS Medicine. Researchers examined how diet affected the strongest biomarker for heart disease--the 9p21 gene. Studying 27,000 individuals, researchers found that the gene's effect was reduced when an individual ate lots of fruits and vegetables.

From Norway - Folic acid supplementation in early pregnancy reduces risk of language delay in the child, according to a report published in JAMA. Studying nearly 40,000 children, researchers found that use of folic acid from 4 weeks prior to 8 weeks following conception was associated with a significantly reduced risk of severe language delay in the child at age 3.

And finally, from Boston - Restless leg syndrome may raise risk of high blood pressure in middle aged women, according to a report published in Hypertension. Researchers surveyed nearly 100,000 women with an average age of 50. They found that those with 5 to 14 cases of RLS a month had a 26% prevalence of hypertension, while those with over 15 a month had a 33% prevalence.

Perinatal Diethylstilbestrol Exposure Linked to Cancer, Fertility Issues; BPA Exposure in Womb Raises Risk of Breast Cancer; Birth Control Pill and HIV Risk (Week in Review)

Sun, 9 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(October 9, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Maryland - Exposure to diethylstilbestrol in the womb raises a woman's risk of many cancers, according to a report published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Researchers studied over 6500 women, 4600 of whom were exposed to DES in the womb. Results showed that this exposure significantly increased risk of many cancers and fertility problems, including a 40x increased risk of clear-cell adenocarcinoma, 8x increased risk of neonatal death, 2.4x increased risk of infertility and a 1.8x increased risk of breast cancer.

From Switzerland - BPA exposure in the womb may raise a woman's lifetime risk of breast cancer, according to a report published in Molecular Endocrinology. Researchers added a compound mimicking BPA into the drinking water of pregnant mice. Results showed that this exposure significantly affected breast development in the offspring and also altered their hormone response to progesterone.

And finally, from Washington - Hormonal contraceptives may double the risk of HIV, according to a report published in the Lancet Infectious Diseases. Studying over 3700 couples in Africa, researchers found that women taking hormonal contraceptives had twofold increased risk of acquiring HIV, and that HIV infected women had twofold increased risk of transmitting the virus to their unaffected partners.

Diet During Pregnancy May Affect Risk of Birth Defects; HDL Cholesterol Reduces Heart Risk in Diabetics; MRI Scans Safe for ICD Patients (Week in Review)

Sat, 8 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(October 8, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From California - Healthy diet during pregnancy lowers risk of two birth defects, according to a report published in the Archives of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine. Researchers compared over 3800 women that had a fetus or child with either a neural tube defect or cleft lip/palate to nearly 7000 healthy controls. Results showed that women with the healthiest diet during pregnancy had up to 51% reduced risk of their child having either birth defect.

From Oregon - Elevated HDL cholesterol ('good' cholesterol) reduces risk of cardiovascular events in diabetics, according to a report published in the American Journal of Cardiology. Researchers examined over 30,000 patients with diabetes for 8 years. They found that patient's whose HDL cholesterol increased over the study period had 8% less heart attacks and strokes than those whose cholesterol remained the same, while patients who saw their good cholesterol decline had 11% more heart attacks and strokes.

And finally, from Baltimore - MRI scans are safe for patients with an implantable cardiac device (ICD), according to a report published in the Annals of Internal Medicine. Researchers reviewed the cases of over 430 patients with ICDs who had undergone an MRI. They found that using proper precautions enabled the patients to safely undergo the imaging

Good Cholesterol Lowers Risk of Heart Attack & Stroke in Diabetics; Child's Food Choices Can Be Swayed by Ads, Parents; Predicted Rise in Elderly Cancer Survivors (Video)

Fri, 7 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(October 7, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Oregon - Elevated HDL cholesterol ('good' cholesterol) reduces risk of cardiovascular events in diabetics, according to a report published in the American Journal of Cardiology. Researchers examined over 30,000 patients with diabetes for 8 years. They found that patient's whose HDL cholesterol increased over the study period had 8% less heart attacks and strokes than those whose cholesterol remained the same, while patients who saw their good cholesterol decline had 11% more heart attacks and strokes.

From Texas - Children's food preferences are greatly affected by advertising and parental influence, according to a report published in the Journal of Pediatrics. Researchers had 75 children watch ads for either apples or french fries, afterwards allowing the children to choose a coupon for either food with input from their parents. They found that when the parent remained neutral, 71% of children who watched the french fries ad chose the coupon for fries.However, these numbers dropped to 55% when the parent encouraged the healthier option.

And finally, from Maryland - Research published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention predicts a dramatic rise in the amount of elderly cancer survivors. Researchers from the National Cancer Institute believe that by 2020, the population of cancer survivors over the age of 65 will increase by about 42%.

Diethylstilbestrol Exposure in Womb Linked to Cancer, Fertility Problems; Neural Stem Cells May Help Fight Diabetes; Biking May Help Diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease (Video)

Thu, 6 Oct 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(October 6, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Maryland - Exposure to diethylstilbestrol in the womb raises a woman's risk of many cancers, according to a report published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Researchers studied over 6500 women, 4600 of whom were exposed to DES in the womb. Results showed that this exposure significantly increased risk of many cancers and fertility problems, including a 40x increased risk of clear-cell adenocarcinoma, 8x increased risk of neonatal death, 2.4x increased risk of infertility and a 1.8x increased risk of breast cancer.

From Japan - Neural stem cells may help fight diabetes, according to research published in EMBO Molecular Medicine. Results of an animal study on diabetic rats found that neural stem cell transplantation worked as a regenerative medication, increasing insulin production and reducing blood glucose levels.

And finally, from Japan - Research published in the Journal of Parkinson's disease examines how ability to ride a bike can be used in the diagnosis of Parkinson's disease. Researchers found that 88.9% of Japanese patients with atypical Parkinsonism stopped riding a bike following the development of their illness, while only 9.8% of patients suffering from Parkinson's disease stopped bicycling.

Breast Cancer Video: BPA Exposure in Womb May Raise Risk of Breast Cancer; Exercise Beneficial for CKD Patients; MRI Safe For Patients with ICDs

Tue, 4 Oct 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(October 4, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Switzerland - BPA exposure in the womb may raise a woman's lifetime risk of breast cancer, according to a report published in Molecular Endocrinology. Researchers added a compound mimicking BPA into the drinking water of pregnant mice. Results showed that this exposure significantly affected breast development in the offspring and also altered their hormone response to progesterone.

From Sweden - A new report published in the Cochrane Library examines the importance of regular exercise for patients with chronic kidney disease. Results of a meta-analysis covering 45 studies and nearly 2000 CKD patients showed that regular physical activity improved patient's blood pressure, heart rate and quality of life.

And finally, from Baltimore - MRI scans are safe for patients with an implantable cardiac device (ICD), according to a report published in the Annals of Internal Medicine. Researchers reviewed the cases of over 430 patients with ICDs who had undergone an MRI. They found that using proper precautions enabled the patients to safely undergo the imaging

HIV Video: Obese Children More Likely to Have High Blood Pressure; Healthy Pregnant Diet Lowers Risk of Two Birth Defects, Hormonal Contraceptives Double Risk of HIV

Mon, 3 Oct 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(October 3, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Indiana - Obese children are at significantly raised risk of high blood pressure, according to a report published in Hypertension. Studying over 1100 children for 4.5 years, researchers found that those whose BMI was at or above the 85th percentile had nearly 3x increased risk of also having high blood pressure.

From California - Healthy diet during pregnancy lowers risk of two birth defects, according to a report published in the Archives of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine. Researchers compared over 3800 women that had a fetus or child with either a neural tube defect or cleft lip/palate to nearly 7000 healthy controls. Results showed that women with the healthiest diet during pregnancy had up to 51% reduced risk of their child having either birth defect.

And finally, from Washington - Hormonal contraceptives may double the risk of HIV, according to a report published in the Lancet Infectious Diseases. Studying over 3700 couples in Africa, researchers found that women taking hormonal contraceptives had twofold increased risk of acquiring HIV, and that HIV infected women had twofold increased risk of transmitting the virus to their unaffected partners.

Farms May Be Environmental Risk to COPD, Asthma Patients; EKG 'Noise' May Be Predictor of Heart Attack Death; Childless Men at Raised Risk of Dying from Heart Disease (Week in Review)

Sun, 2 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(October 2, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From the Netherlands - Livestock farms may pose health risks to nearby asthma and COPD patients, according to a report presented at the European Respiratory Society's annual congress. Studying medical records on over 200,000 patients, researchers found that areas with many livestock farms had twice as many asthma and COPD exacerbations than areas with few livestock farms.

From Michigan - New research published in Science Translational Medicine identifies EKG anomalies that may help predict who is at risk of dying from a heart attack. Researchers sifted through 24-hour continuous EKGs from over 4500 heart attack patients. They found that most of the patients who died had similar patterns in their EKGs that was previously considered to be undetectable noise.

And finally, from California - Childless men are more likely to die from heart disease than fathers, according to a report published in Human Reproduction. Studying over 130,000 men for 10 years, researchers found that childless men had about a 17% increased risk of dying from heart disease, when compared to men who were fathers

Loss of Smell May Be Early Sign of Alzheimer's Disease; Moderate Drinking May Reduce Asthma Risk; Stimulants for ADHD on the Rise (Week in Review)

Sat, 1 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(October 1, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Bethesda - An early sign of Alzheimer's disease may be loss of smell, according to a report published in the Journal of Neuroscience. Researchers found that mice genetically engineered to have a rare familial form of Alzheimer's had 4x the amount of death of their olfactory cells, even in the absence of amyloid plaques

From Denmark - Moderate alcohol consumption may lower risk of asthma, according to a report presented at the European Respiratory Society's annual congress. Researchers studied nearly 20,000 twins for 8 years, finding that those who drank 1-6 units of alcohol a week had the lowest risk of developing asthma, while those who drank rarely or never had a 1.4x increased risk and heavy drinkers had a 1.2x increased risk

And finally, from Maryland - A new report published in the American Journal of Psychiatry finds a rise in the use of stimulant treatment for ADHD. Researchers found that use of prescribed stimulant rose 3.4% a year from 1996-2008. They also found that prescription use was highest among children ages 6-12.

Alcohol Weakens Immune Response to Viral Infections; Oral Steroids Linked to Vitamin D Deficiency; Going to Bed Early and Waking Up Early Reduces Risk of Obesity in Kids (Video)

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(September 30, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Boston - Alcohol weakens the body's ability to fight viral infections, according to a report published in BMC Immunology. Researchers examined blood samples from a group of healthy volunteers, and found that alcohol consumption increased inflammation and also decreased the body's anti-viral immune response.

From New York - Research published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism finds a strong association between oral steroids and vitamin D deficiency. Studying over 31,000 children and adults, researchers found that those who were taking oral steroids were at a twofold increased risk of severe vitamin D deficiency.

And finally, from Australia - Children who go to bed early and wake up early are much less likely to be obese, according to a report published in SLEEP. Researchers studied over 2000 children aged 9-16 and found that those who stayed up late and woke up late had a 1.5x increased risk of being obese, and 2.9x more likely to be physically inactive.

Diabetes Video: New Genes Linked to Type 1 Diabetes; Heart's Backup Vessels May Reduce Heart Disease Deaths; Slightly Elevated Blood Pressure Raises Risk of Stroke

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(September 29, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Philadelphia - Research published in PLoS Genetics finds new genes that may be associated with type 1 diabetes. Results of a meta-analysis covering 6 studies and over 25,000 individuals found that three novel genetic mutations associated with type 1 diabetes that were not previously considered revelant.

From London - A new report published in the European Heart Journal describes a natural process that reduces risk of dying from heart disease. Researchers found that the heart has small vessels (known as coronary collaterals) that channel blood flow to the heart in case of significant blockage in the main arteries. Results of a meta-analysis found that people with lots of these vessels had a 36% reduced risk of dying from heart disease.

And finally, from California - Slightly elevated blood pressure may raise risk of stroke, according to a report published in Neurology. Examining over 518,000 adults who took part in 12 different studies, researchers found that individuals with systolic BP between 120-139 mmHg or diastolic BP between 80-89 mmHg had a 50% increased risk of stroke.

Heart Attack Video: EKG Anomaly May Predict Heart Attack Death; Diabetics Benefit Greatly From Regular Doctor Visits; Stimulants for ADHD on the Rise

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(September 28, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Michigan - New research published in Science Translational Medicine identifies EKG anomalies that may help predict who is at risk of dying from a heart attack. Researchers sifted through 24-hour continuous EKGs from over 4500 heart attack patients. They found that most of the patients who died had similar patterns in their EKGs that was previously considered to be undetectable noise.

From Boston - Diabetic patients benefit greatly from frequent doctor visits, according to a report published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. Studying records on over 26,000 type 2 diabetic patients, researchers found that those who visited their doctor the most were able to reach their blood glucose, cholesterol and blood pressure treatment goals sooner. (brig)

And finally, from Maryland - A new report published in the American Journal of Psychiatry finds a rise in the use of stimulant treatment for ADHD. Researchers found that use of prescribed stimulant rose 3.4% a year from 1996-2008. They also found that prescription use was highest among children ages 6-12.

Alzheimer's Disease Video: Loss of Smell May Signal Alzheimer's; Livestock Farms May Raise Risk of Asthma, COPD Exacerbation; High Blood Pressure Connected to Risk of Cancer

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(September 27, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Bethesda - An early sign of Alzheimer's disease may be loss of smell, according to a report published in the Journal of Neuroscience. Researchers found that mice genetically engineered to have a rare familial form of Alzheimer's had 4x the amount of death of their olfactory cells, even in the absence of amyloid plaques.

From the Netherlands - Livestock farms may pose health risks to nearby asthma and COPD patients, according to a report presented at the European Respiratory Society's annual congress. Studying medical records on over 200,000 patients, researchers found that areas with many livestock farms had twice as many asthma and COPD exacerbations than areas with few livestock farms.

And finally, from the UK - Research presented at the European Multidisciplinary Cancer Congress finds that high blood pressure may raise risk of developing and dying from cancer. Researchers studied nearly 600,000 men and women for 12 years. They found that men with higher than normal blood pressure had 10-20% increased risk of cancer and 49% increased risk of dying from the disease, while hypertensive women were also more likely to develop cancer and 24% more likely to die from it.

Moderate Drinking May Lower Asthma Risk; Certain Fruits and Vegetables Reduce Risk of Colorectal Cancers; Childless Men More Likely to Die From Heart Disease (Video)

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(September 26, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Denmark - Moderate alcohol consumption may lower risk of asthma, according to a report presented at the European Respiratory Society's annual congress. Researchers studied nearly 20,000 twins for 8 years, finding that those who drank 1-6 units of alcohol a week had the lowest risk of developing asthma, while those who drank rarely or never had a 1.4x increased risk and heavy drinkers had a 1.2x increased risk.

From Australia - Research published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association finds that some fruits and vegetables reduce specific types of colorectal cancer. Comparing over 900 colorectal patients to 1000 healthy controls, researchers found that consumption of brassica vegetables (such as broccoli and cauliflower) reduced risk of proximal colon cancer, while consumption dark yellow vegetables and apples reduced risk of distal colon cancer.

And finally, from California - Childless men are more likely to die from heart disease than fathers, according to a report published in Human Reproduction. Studying over 130,000 men for 10 years, researchers found that childless men had about a 17% increased risk of dying from heart disease, when compared to men who were fathers

Premature Babies At Risk of Dying Young; Blood Test for Heart Attack Diagnosis May Be Imminent; Diabetes Doubles Risk of Dementia (Week in Review)

Sun, 25 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(September 25, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From California - Preterm birth raises risk of death in early childhood and young adulthood, according to a report published in JAMA. Researchers studied nearly 675,000 individuals born between 1973-1979. They found that those born prior to 37 weeks gestation had an increased risk of dying from ages 1-5 and 18-36.

From Chicago - Scientists may be close to a new blood test for heart attack diagnosis, according to a report published in the Journal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology. Researchers discovered that a large protein is released into the blood following a heart attack, an aspect that may increase the efficiency and accuracy in diagnosing the event.

And finally, from Japan - Diabetes dramatically raises risk of dementia, according to a report published in Neurology. 11 year follow up of 1017 individuals revealed that diabetic patients were at 2x increased risk of developing dementia.

Pollution From Traffic Linked to Heart Attack Risk; Scientists Inch Closer to HIV Vaccine; Rotavirus Vaccine Reduces Hospitalizations in Young Children (Week in Review)

Sat, 24 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(September 24, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From London - Pollution may raise risk of heart attack, according to a report published in the British Medical Journal. Researchers examined nearly 80,000 heart attack cases and the hourly pollution exposure of each patient. Results showed that elevated levels of pollution raised risk of heart attack for up to 6 hours following exposure.

From London - Research published in Blood takes scientists one step closer to developing a vaccine for HIV. Scientists discovered that HIV tricks the immune system i not overreacting, thereby weakening itself. They also found that removing cholesterol from the virus' membrane prevented HIV from triggering this innate response.

And finally, from Atlanta - The rotavirus vaccine drastically reduces hospital admissions in children under 5, according to a report published in NEJM. Researchers found that routine rotavirus vaccination reduced diarrhea related hospitalizations in children under 5 by 33% in 2007-2008 and 25% in 2008-2009

Quitting Smoking Can Boost Memory; Depression Linked to Stroke Risk; Low Socioeconomic Status Increases Risk of Heart Failure Hospitalization Among Women (Video)

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 17:30:00 EDT

(September 23, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From England - Research published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence finds that quitting smoking can improve memory. Studying 69 individuals, researchers found that those who had quit smoking for over 2 years scored 25% better on memory tests than current smokers, while those who had never smoked scored 37% better than both groups.

From Boston - Depression raises risk of stroke, according to a report published in JAMA. Results of a meta-analysis covering 30 studies and over 300,000 patients showed that depression increased risk of stroke by 45%.

And finally, from Los Angeles - Low socioeconomic status increases the likelihood of being hospitalized for heart failure, according to a report published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. In a study of over 26,000 healthy postmenopausal women, researchers found that those who made less than $20,000/year had 56% increased risk of heart failure hospitalization, while those who had less than a high school education had a 21% increased risk.

Heart Attack Video: Possible New Blood Test for Heart Attack; Cardiac Rehab Benefits Stroke Patients; Rotavirus Vaccine Greatly Reduces Hospitalizations in Kids

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 17:30:00 EDT

(September 22, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Chicago - Scientists may be close to a new blood test for heart attack diagnosis, according to a report published in the Journal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology. Researchers discovered that a large protein is released into the blood following a heart attack, an aspect that may increase the efficiency and accuracy in diagnosing the event.

From London - Research published in Stroke finds that cardiac rehab may also benefit stroke patients. Studying 100 patients who suffered either a stroke or a mini-stroke, researchers found that cardiac rehab significantly lowered patient's risk profile by reducing cholesterol, triglycerides, BMI, and blood pressure.

And finally, from Atlanta - The rotavirus vaccine drastically reduces hospital admissions in children under 5, according to a report published in NEJM. Researchers found that routine rotavirus vaccination reduced diarrhea related hospitalizations in children under 5 by 33% in 2007-2008 and 25% in 2008-2009

Preemies More Likely to Die Young; Most Common Genetic Cause of ALS and Dementia Discovered; Beta Blockers Beneficial in Melanoma Patients (Video)

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 17:30:00 EDT

(September 21, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From California - Preterm birth raises risk of death in early childhood and young adulthood, according to a report published in JAMA. Researchers studied nearly 675,000 individuals born between 1973-1979. They found that those born prior to 37 weeks gestation had an increased risk of dying from ages 1-5 and 18-36.

From Bethesda - A new report published in Neuron identifies the most common genetic basis for both ALS and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Genetic analysis of patients with the neurodegenerative disorders revealed a mutation in chromosome 9p21. Researchers believe this mutation explains at least 33% of all familial cases of ALS and FTD in Europe.

And finally, from Ohio - Beta blockers may prolong life in melanoma patients, according to a report published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention. Studying thousands of medical records, researchers found that melanoma patients who were taking beta-blockers to treat high blood pressure had lower mortality rates than patients not taking the drug.

Heart Attack Video: Pollution Ups Heart Attack Risk; Living Alone May Raise Likelihood of Dying From Alcohol; Diabetes Dramatically Increases Risk of Dementia

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(September 20, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Finland - People who live alone are at increased risk of alcohol related death, according to a report published in PLoS Medicine. Researchers studied nearly 80% of all deaths in Finland from 2000-2007. They found that two thirds of alcohol related deaths occurred in people in lived alone.

And finally, from Japan - Diabetes dramatically raises risk of dementia, according to a report published in Neurology. 11 year follow up of 1017 individuals revealed that diabetic patients were at 2x increased risk of developing dementia.

Breast Cancer Video: Stress Linked to Aggressiveness of Breast Cancer; Scientists Inch Closer to HIV Vaccine; Strong Link Between Schizophrenia and Epilepsy

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 17:30:00 EDT

(September 19, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Chicago - Stress may be linked to degree of breast cancer aggressiveness, according to a report presented at the conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities. Researchers studied nearly 1000 breast cancer patients, finding that those who reported higher psychological stress also had tumours that were more aggressive.

From London - Research published in Blood takes scientists one step closer to developing a vaccine for HIV. Scientists discovered that HIV tricks the immune system i not overreacting, thereby weakening itself. They also found that removing cholesterol from the virus' membrane prevented HIV from triggering this innate response.

And finally, from Taiwan - A new report published in Epilepsia finds a strong connection between epilepsy and schizophrenia. Studying nearly 5200 schizophrenic patients and nearly 12,000 epileptics, researchers found that those with epilepsy were at 8x increased risk of developing schizophrenia and that those with schizophrenia were at nearly 6x increased risk of epilepsy

Apples and Pears May Cut Stroke Risk in Half; Increasing Broccoli's Cancer Fighting Properties With Mustard; Fast Paced Kids Shows Affect Attention, Behavior (Week in Review)

Sun, 18 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(September 18, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From the Netherlands - Apples and pears may help prevent strokes, according to a report published in Stroke. Studying over 20,000 adults for 10 years, researchers found that those who consumed the most amount of fruits and vegetables with white flesh had 52% reduced risk of stroke.

From Illinois - Adding spice to broccoli increases it's cancer fighting ability, according to a report published in the British Journal of Nutrition. Scientists discovered that adding spices that contain myrosinase--an enzyme found in mustard, horseradish or wasabi--to broccoli boosted the vegetable's cancer fighting power and ensured it would be absorbed in the digestive system.

And finally, from Virginia - Fast paced television shows may affect learning and behaviour in young children, according to research published in Pediatrics. Researchers tested a group of 4 year old children after they had watched either a fast paced, fantastical show or a slower, more realistic one. Results showed that those who watched the faster paced show had severely compromised ability to pay attention and moderate their behaviour

Healthy Lifestyle Reduces Risk of Heart Failure; 1 in 5 Canadians Has Metabolic Syndrome; One Diabetic Dies Every 7 Seconds (Week in Review)

Sat, 17 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(September 17, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Louisiana - Healthy living dramatically reduces risk of heart failure, according to a report published in Circulation: Heart Failure. Studying over 38,000 men and women, researchers found that four healthy lifestyle factors--not smoking, regular physical activity, vegetable consumption and normal weight-- reduced risk of heart failure by 70% in men and 81% in women

From Manitoba - A new report published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal finds that a significant amount of Canadians have metabolic syndrome. Researchers studied national health data covering 96% of the Canadian population. They found that 1 in 5 Canadians have metabolic syndrome, with 35% of the population suffering from abdominal obesity.

And finally, from Belgium - 4.6 million people will die from diabetes in 2011, according to research presented at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes annual meeting. Researchers from the International Diabetes Federation found that 366 million people worldwide have diabetes and that one is dying every 7 seconds from the condition.

Analysis Highlights Alarming Breast Cancer Facts; Testosterone Levels Drop in New Fathers; Lifelong Musicians Less Likely to Suffer Age-Related Hearing Loss (Video)

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(September 16, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Washington - A global analysis published in the Lancet highlights some alarming facts regarding breast cancer. Researchers found that prevalence of breast cancer has doubled in the past 30 years, from 641,000 in 1980 to 1.6 million in 2010. They also found that, in some developing countries, almost 40% of all breast cancer deaths occurred in women of reproductive age.

From Chicago - Testosterone levels drop in men once they become fathers, according to a report published in in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Studying 600 men for five years, researchers found that men saw their testosterone levels drop by 34% after the birth of their first child.

And finally, from Toronto - Lifelong musicians may be less likely to lose their hearing as they age than non-musicians, according to a report published in Psychology and Aging. Researchers conducted auditory assessments on 74 musicians to 89 non-musicians, finding that 70 year old lifelong musicians had hearing equal to that of a 50 year old non-musician.

Stroke Video: Apples and Pears May Help Prevent Stroke; Targeting Cholesterol May Slow Deadly Brain Cancer; 4.6 Million People Worldwide Will Die From Diabetes in 2011

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(September 15, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From the Netherlands - Apples and pears may help prevent strokes, according to a report published in Stroke. Studying over 20,000 adults for 10 years, researchers found that those who consumed the most amount of fruits and vegetables with white flesh had 52% reduced risk of stroke.

From California - Lowering cholesterol may help slow one of the most deadly forms of cancer, according to a report published in Cancer Discovery. Scientists discovered that the brain cancer glioblastoma needs a significant amount of cholesterol to grow, suggesting that cholesterol lowering agents may be able to interrupt the tumour's growth supply.

And finally, from Belgium - 4.6 million people will die from diabetes in 2011, according to research presented at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes annual meeting. Researchers from the International Diabetes Federation found that 366 million people worldwide have diabetes and that one is dying every 7 seconds from the condition.

Adding Spice to Broccoli Increases Its Cancer Fighting Ability (Video)

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(September 15, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

Combining broccoli with spicy foods containing an enzyme known as myrosinase means these foods will work synergistically in the body to boost production of cancer-fighting compounds, according to research published online ahead of print in the British Journal of Nutrition.

Foods combinations that may work synergistically to provide extra health benefits when eaten together include:

•    Vegetables plus a food high in “healthy” fats, such as avocado

•    Broccoli and tomatoes

•    Combinations of foods containing the B vitamins folic acid, B-6, and B-12, such as lentils and fish

The cancer-fighting compound sulforaphane is produced when a substance known as glucoraphanin, or GRP, is broken down by the enzyme myrosinase. Broccoli is high in GRP and many spicy foods, including broccoli sprouts, watercress, mustard, and horseradish are high in myrosinase. Researchers from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign tested the potential synergetic activity of foods containing both GRP and myrosinase by asking four participants to eat four meals, each one week apart. All the meals were made up of dry cereal and yogurt. Added to this was broccoli powder, fresh broccoli sprouts, both foods, or neither. Following each meal the investigators measured the participants’ blood and urine for evidence of sulforaphane.

A metabolite of sulforaphane was found in the urine of participants following meals containing powdered broccoli, sprouts, or both, but the concentration was highest when both foods were eaten together. In addition, analysis of blood and urine revealed that sulforaphane was produced more quickly in the body when the foods were eaten together rather than on their own. This is important because the sooner the compound is produced, the easier it is for the body to absorb it.

Today’s research demonstrates how strategic combinations of certain foods can produce a synergistic reaction that boosts both of their healthy attributes.

Kidney Cancer Video: NSAIDs May Be Associated With Renal Cell Cancer; 20% of Canadians Have Metabolic Syndrome; Fast Paced TV Shows May Affect Child's Learning, Behavior

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(September 12, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Boston - Long term NSAID use may be associated with raised risk of kidney cancer, according to a report published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. Studying over 125,000 adults, researchers found that use of NSAIDs for 10 or more years resulted in a 3x increase in relative risk of developing renal cell cancer--the most common type of kidney cancer.

From Manitoba - A new report published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal finds that a significant amount of Canadians have metabolic syndrome. Researchers studied national health data covering 96% of the Canadian population. They found that 1 in 5 Canadians have metabolic syndrome, with 35% of the population suffering from abdominal obesity.

And finally, from Virginia - Fast paced television shows may affect learning and behaviour in young children, according to research published in Pediatrics. Researchers tested a group of 4 year old children after they had watched either a fast paced, fantastical show or a slower, more realistic one. Results showed that those who watched the faster paced show had severely compromised ability to pay attention and moderate their behaviour

Loss of Child Increases Parent's Risk of Dying; Menopause Not Linked to Heart Disease Fatalities; Cost of Colds on US Economy (Week in Review)

Sun, 11 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(September 11, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From the UK - Losing a child in the first year of life greatly increases a parent's risk of death, according to a new report published in BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care. Researchers studied death registrations from Scotland, England and Wales. They found that parents in Scotland whose child died in the first year of life were 1.5x more likely to die within 15 years, while similarly bereaved mothers in England and Wales were at 4x increased risk.

From Baltimore - Menopause does not raise risk of dying from heart disease, according to a report published in the British Medical Journal. Studying individuals born between 1916 and 1945, researchers found no association between menopause and risk of fatal heart disease.The researchers argue that rising death rates as women age are due to the effects of aging itself.??

And finally, from Kingston - A new report from Queen's University examines the tremendous costs that colds have on the US economy. Results of a meta-analysis examining over 80 clinical trials found that over 80% of US workers go to work rather than calling in sick with a cold, and the consequent drop in productivity in addition to doctor visits and medications can cost as much as $40 billion/year.

Number of Underinsured Americans Rising Dramatically; Aerobic Exercise May Ward Off Dementia; Significant Decrease of Heavy Smokers in US (Video)

Fri, 9 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(September 9, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From New York - A new report published Health Affairs finds a dramatic increase in the amount of underinsured Americans. Researchers found that the number of underinsured Americans rose from 16 million in 2003 to 29 million in 2010, an increase of 80%. The study also finds that nearly half of these individuals skipped necessary medical care, and over half had difficulty paying medical bills.

From Rochester - Aerobic exercise may ward off dementia, according to a report published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings. Results of a meta-analysis covering over 1600 studies found that any exercise that raises one's heart rate reduces risk of dementia and even slows the condition from progressing once it starts.

And finally, from Atlanta - Research published in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report sees a small decrease in smoking in the US. CDC researchers found that the amount of adult smokers fell from 20.9% in 2005 to 19.3% in 2010, while the amount of heavy smokers dropped from 12.7% to 8.3% during that same time period.

COPD Video: Risk of COPD Greater than Risk of Breast & Prostate Cancer; Autophagy Pathway Digests, Removes Cholesterol; Alcohol Main Cause of Death Among Diabetics

Thu, 8 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(September 8, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Toronto - Risk of developing COPD is significantly higher than the risk of developing many common cancers, according to a report published in the Lancet. Researchers reviewed health data on the entire population of Ontario (approx. 13 million people). Results showed that the average 35 year old woman was 3x more likely to develop COPD than breast cancer, and the average 35 year old man was 3x more likely to develop COPD than prostate cancer.

From Ottawa - Canadian scientists have discovered a natural process that removes cholesterol, according to a report published in Cell Metabolism. Researchers found that the ancient 'autophagy' pathway digests cholesterol and removes it from arterial walls, a process that could potentially be used to reverse atherosclerosis.

And finally, from Finland - Research published in the British Medical Journal finds that alcohol has become a prevalent cause of death among patients with type 1 diabetes. Researchers studied over 17,000 type 1 diabetics, finding that alcohol and drugs accounted for 39% of deaths that occurred in the first 20 years of diabetes..

NSAIDs While Pregnant More than Double Risk of Miscarriage, Menopause Not Connected to Fatal Heart Disease, Prenatal Phthalate Exposure May Affect Child's Development (Video)

Tue, 6 Sep 2011 17:30:00 EDT

(September 6, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Montreal - Use of anti-inflammatory drugs early in pregnancy doubles the risk of miscarriage, according to a report published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal. Researchers compared 4700 women who suffered a miscarriage to over 47000 controls. Results showed that any type or dosage of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy was associated with 2.4x increased risk of miscarriage.

From Baltimore - Menopause does not raise risk of dying from heart disease, according to a report published in the British Medical Journal. Studying individuals born between 1916 and 1945, researchers found no association between menopause and risk of fatal heart disease.The researchers argue that rising death rates as women age are due to the effects of aging itself.

And finally, from New York - A new report published in Environmental Health Perspectives finds that phthalate exposure while in the womb may affect a chid's development later in life. In a study of 319 women and their children, researchers found that the highest prenatal exposure to phthalates (a chemical found commonly in plastic toys & shampoo) was associated with greater odds of motor delay and impaired mental development at age 3

Signs of Aging May Be Due to Blocked Blood Vessels; Maternal Flame Retardant Exposure Raises Risk of Smaller Baby; Statins Fight Infections, Respiratory Illnesses (Week in Review)

Sun, 4 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(September 4, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Chicago - Blocked blood vessels in the brain may cause many common signs of aging, according to a report published in Stroke. Researchers studied 1100 elderly participants annually until their death. Results of brain autopsies showed a strong connection between impaired motor skills, such as shaky hands and slow walking, and undetected blocked blood vessels in the brain.

From California - Exposure to flame retardants during pregnancy raises risk of low birthweight babies, according to a report published in the American Journal of Epidemiology. Researchers studied nearly 300 pregnant women, measuring their exposure to polybrominated biphenyl ethers (a flame retardant chemical found in many household products). They found that every 10x increase of PBDEs in the mothers blood resulted in a 4.1 ounce decrease in the babies birthweight.

And finally, from London - Research published in the European Heart Journal finds that statins may also protect against deaths from respiratory illnesses. Following over 4600 patients for 11 years who were randomized to either atorvastatin or placebo, researchers found that patients in the statin group were much less likely to die of infection and respiratory illnesses.

Bad Sleep May Lead to High Blood Pressure; Primary PCI Best for Cardiac Arrest; Americans Drink Too Much Sugar on a Daily Basis (Week in Review)

Sat, 3 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(September 3, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Boston - Poor sleep may raise risk of high blood pressure, according to a report published in Hypertension. Studying nearly 800 men for 3.4 years, researchers found that those who with the lowest levels of one of the deepest stages of sleep had an 80% increased risk of high blood pressure.

From Denmark - Research presented at the European Society of Cardiology Congress finds that primary PCI is the most effective reperfusion therapy for heart attack. Studying nearly 10,000 heart attack patients, researchers found that mortality was lowered when patients were diagnosed with an ECG in the ambulance and taken directly to the catheritization lab where they underwent PCI.

And finally, from Atlanta - A new report released by the CDC finds that many Americans are over-consuming sugary drinks. In a survey of over 17,000 individuals, researchers found that nearly 50% of the US population consumes a sugar sweetened beverage every day, while boys aged 12-19 and men aged 20-39 were both consuming over 250 calories a day from sugary drinks.

Canadian-Made Virus May Be Able to Kill Cancer, Save Healthy Tissue; Insomnia Significantly Affecting Productivity in the US; Walnuts May Lower Breast Cancer Risk (Video)

Fri, 2 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(September 2, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Ottawa - A genetically engineered virus made in Canada has shown promise in killing cancer, according to a study published in Nature. Scientists administered the virus, known as JX-594, in 23 cancer patients. Results showed that healthy tissue was unaffected in all patients, and that 6 out of 8 of those given the highest dosage had significant tumour shrinkage.

From Boston - Insomnia affects over 1/5 of US workers and significantly reduces national productivity, according to a report published in Sleep. Researchers studied a national sample of over 7400 individuals, finding that insomnia was prevalent in 23% of workers, costing the nation approximately $63 billion and 252 days annually in lost productivity.

And finally, from West Virginia - Walnuts may reduce risk of breast cancer, according to a report published in Nutrition and Cancer. Studying mice, researchers found that a walnut enriched diet altered the activity of several genes known to be involved in breast cancer.

Stroke Video: Dramatic Increase in Teens and Young Adults Suffering Stroke; Blocked Blood Vessels Associated With Signs of Aging; Too Many Americans Consuming Sugary Drinks

Thu, 1 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(September 1, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Atlanta - Stroke hospitalizations in adolescents and young adults have risen significantly in the past 15 years, according to a report published in the Annals of Neurology. Examining hospital discharge data from 1995 to 2008, researchers found a 37% increase in the amount of teens and young adults that were hospitalized for ischemic stroke.

From Chicago - Blocked blood vessels in the brain may cause many common signs of aging, according to a report published in Stroke. Researchers studied 1100 elderly participants annually until their death. Results of brain autopsies showed a strong connection between impaired motor skills, such as shaky hands and slow walking, and undetected blocked blood vessels in the brain.

And finally, from Atlanta - A new report released by the CDC finds that many Americans are over-consuming sugary drinks. In a survey of over 17,000 individuals, researchers found that nearly 50% of the US population consumes a sugar sweetened beverage every day, while boys aged 12-19 and men aged 20-39 were both consuming over 250 calories a day from sugary drinks.

Alzheimer's Disease Video: Blood Vessel Density May Cause Alzheimer's; Postmenopausal Smokers Have Higher Estrogen Levels; US Ranks Low in Global Rankings on Infant Mortality

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(August 31, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From British Columbia - A new report published in PLoS One finds another possible cause of Alzheimer's disease. Studying brain samples from a mouse model with Alzheimer's, researchers found that the rodent's had nearly twice the density of blood vessels when compared to normal mice.

From the Netherlands - Women who smoke after menopause have much high sex hormone levels than non-smokers, according to a report published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism. Researchers studied over 2000 postmenopausal women, finding that current smokers had much higher androgen and estrogen in their blood than non and former smokers.

And finally, from Geneva - The US ranks very low in global rankings of infant mortality, according to a report published in PLoS Medicine. Results of a 20 year study found that newborn deaths in the US ranked 41st out of 45 industrialized countries, with premature delivery being one of the reasons for the poor ranking.

Flame Retardant Exposure During Pregnancy Linked to Smaller Babies; Primary PCI Best Therapy for Heart Attack; Rotavirus Vaccine in Infants Protects Older Kids, Adults (Video)

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(August 30, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From California - Exposure to flame retardants during pregnancy raises risk of low birthweight babies, according to a report published in the American Journal of Epidemiology. Researchers studied nearly 300 pregnant women, measuring their exposure to polybrominated biphenyl ethers (a flame retardant chemical found in many household products). They found that every 10x increase of PBDEs in the mothers blood resulted in a 4.1 ounce decrease in the babies birthweight.

From Denmark - Research presented at the European Society of Cardiology Congress finds that primary PCI is the most effective reperfusion therapy for heart attack. Studying nearly 10,000 heart attack patients, researchers found that mortality was lowered when patients were diagnosed with an ECG in the ambulance and taken directly to the catheritization lab where they underwent PCI.

And finally, from Atlanta - Giving infants the rotavirus vaccine may also protect older children and adults, according to a report published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases. Researchers found that implementation of routine rotavirus vaccination of infants in 2006 resulted in lower rotavirus-related hospital admissions among individuals aged 5-24 who were not eligible for the vaccine

High Blood Pressure Video: Poor Sleep Linked to Hypertension Risk, Apixaban Better than Warfarin for Stroke Prevention, Statins Reduce Death Risk From Respiratory Illnesses

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EDT

(August 29, 2011 - Insidermedicine) From Boston - Poor sleep may raise risk of high blood pressure, according to a report published in Hypertension. Studying nearly 800 men for 3.4 years, researchers found that those who with the lowest levels of one of the deepest stages of sleep had an 80% increased risk of high blood pressure.

From North Carolina - Apixaban is better than warfarin for preventing stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation, according to a report published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Researchers randomized over 18,000 a-fib patients to daily apixaban or warfarin for nearly 2 years. They found that those taking apixaban had 21% relative reduced risk of stroke, as well as a reduced risk of embolism and death.

And finally, from London - Research published in the European Heart Journal finds that statins may also protect against deaths from respiratory illnesses. Following over 4600 patients for 11 years who were randomized to either atorvastatin or placebo, researchers found that patients in the statin group were much less likely to die of infection and respiratory illnesses.

Prolonged Breastfeeding Does Not Affect Risk of Childhood Eczema, Early Undernutrition Linked to Heart Disease Later in Life, Exercise Effective for Depression (Week in Review)

Sun, 28 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(August 28, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From London - Prolonged breastfeeding does not appear to protect against childhood eczema, according to a report published in the British Journal of Dermatology. Researchers studied over 51,000 children aged 8-12, finding that children who were breastfed for 4 months or more were no less likely to develop eczema than those who were weaned off of breastmilk earlier.

From the Netherlands - Undernutrition during youth raises risk of heart disease later in life, according to a report published in the European Heart Journal. In 2007, researchers examined over 7800 women who were aged 0-21 during the Dutch famine of 1944-45. They found that those who were most exposed to undernutrition during the famine had a significantly increased risk of developing heart disease.

And finally, from Texas - Exercise can work as a second medication for patients suffering from depression, according to a report published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry. Researchers studied individuals who were not responding to their antidepressant medication, randomizing the patients to varying levels of exercise intensity. After 4 years, results showed that almost 30% of patients achieved full remission from their disorder.

Vitamin A Supplements Can Save 600,000 Kids a Year; Healthy Lifestyle Postpones Death; New Insight into Parkinson's Disease (Week in Review)

Sat, 27 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(August 27, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Pakistan - Vitamin A supplements can significantly reduce mortality in children living in low and middle income countries, according to a report published in the British Medical Journal. Results of a meta-analysis covering 40 trials found that vitamin A supplements given to children in low and middle income countries reduced child mortality by 24%, saving over 600,000 lives a year.

And finally, from Atlanta - A healthy lifestyle significantly postpones mortality, according to a report published in the American Journal of Public Health. Studying nearly 17,000 individuals from 1988 - 2006, researchers found that those who did not smoke, exercised regularly, drank a moderate amount of alcohol and ate healthy had a 63% reduced risk of death during the study period.

From Edinburgh - A new report published in Nature Communications examines a potential breakthrough in Parkinson's disease. Using skin samples from a patient suffering from one the most progressive form of Parkinson's, researchers were able to generate, for the first time, a stem cell from the disease. This breakthrough will enable researchers to better understand why Parkinson's develops.

Obesity Epidemic to Affect Half of Americans by 2030; Temporary ER Staff May Jeopardize Patient Safety; Aerobic Exercise Trumps Resistance Training At Cutting Belly Fat (Video)

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 17:40:00 EDT

(August 26, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From New York - Research published in the Lancet projects half of American adults will be obese by 2030. Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 1998-2008, researchers estimate that 65 million more American adults will be obese by 2030, so long as the current obesity epidemic remains unchanged.

From Baltimore - Temporary emergency room staff increase the likelihood of medication errors, according to a report published in the Journal of Healthcare Quality. Studying nearly 24,000 medications errors from over 590 hospitals, researchers found that temporary personnel were more likely to be involved in medication errors that reached the patient.

And finally, from North Carolina - Aerobic exercise is the best method for removing belly fat, according to a report published in the American Journal of Physiology. Researchers randomized nearly 200 overweight adults to aerobic training, resistance training or a combination of both. They found that aerobic training was significantly better than resistance training in reducing visceral and liver fat.

Cancer Video: Vitamin A Supplements Can Save Over 600,000 Children a Year, New Scoring System Helps Predict How Long Cancer Patients Will Survive, Exercise Effective for Depression

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 18:30:00 EDT

(August 25, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Pakistan - Vitamin A supplements can significantly reduce mortality in children living in low and middle income countries, according to a report published in the British Medical Journal. Results of a meta-analysis covering 40 trials found that vitamin A supplements given to children in low and middle income countries reduced child mortality by 24%, saving over 600,000 lives a year.

From London - A new scoring system can help doctors better predict mortality in advanced cancer patients, according to a report published in the British Medical Journal. Studying over 1000 patients with advanced, incurable cancer, researchers found that a new scoring system combining laboratory and clinical variables was reasonably accurate in determining whether a patient would live for days, weeks, or months.

And finally, from Texas - Exercise can work as a second medication for patients suffering from depression, according to a report published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry. Researchers studied individuals who were not responding to their antidepressant medication, randomizing the patients to varying levels of exercise intensity. After 4 years, results showed that almost 30% of patients achieved full remission from their disorder.

Heart Disease Video: Under-nutrition Early in Life Linked to Heart Disease Later, How Substance Use Causes Depression, HPV Test Best for Detecting Cervical Cancer

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 19:15:00 EDT

(August 24, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From the Netherlands - Undernutrition during youth raises risk of heart disease later in life, according to a report published in the European Heart Journal. In 2007, researchers examined over 7800 women who were aged 0-21 during the Dutch famine of 1944-45. They found that those who were most exposed to undernutrition during the famine had a significantly increased risk of developing heart disease.

From New York - Substance abuse may raise risk of depression, according to a report published in Neuron. Studying mice, researchers found that chronic cocaine use increased the intensity of the rodents depressive-like responses by decreasing activity in the nucleus accumbens.

And finally, from Washington - A blood test for HPV is the best method for detecting cervical cancer, according to a report published in the Lancet Oncology. Studying nearly 42,000 women over the age of 25, researchers found that a DNA test for HPV was highly sensitive at detecting the most dangerous cervical lesions.

Stem Cell Breakthrough May Help Fight Parkinson's Disease, Breastfeeding Does Not Reduce Risk of Childhood Eczema, Happy Adolescents Less Likely to Use Drugs (Video)

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(August 23, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Edinburgh - A new report published in Nature Communications examines a potential breakthrough in Parkinson's disease. Using skin samples from a patient suffering from one the most progressive form of Parkinson's, researchers were able to generate, for the first time, a stem cell from the disease. This breakthrough will enable researchers to better understand why Parkinson's develops.

From London - Prolonged breastfeeding does not appear to protect against childhood eczema, according to a report published in the British Journal of Dermatology. Researchers studied over 51,000 children aged 8-12, finding that children who were breastfed for 4 months or more were no less likely to develop eczema than those who were weaned off of breastmilk earlier.

And finally, from California - Research presented at the annual meeting of the American Sociological Association finds that happy adolescents may be less likely to partake in illegal behaviours. Studying nearly 15,000 adolescents, researchers found that those who reported happiness and well being were much less likely to engage in criminal activities and use drugs

Heart Attack Video: Majority of Heart Attack Patients Treated Within 90 Minutes, Narcolepsy Cases May Increase Following Flu Season, Healthy Lifestyle Postpones Death

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EDT

(August 22, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Connecticut - A majority of heart attack patients requiring angioplasty are treated within the recommended time, according to a report published in Circulation. Studying over 300,000 heart attack patients who underwent angioplasty, researchers found that 91% of patients were treated within 90 minutes, a dramatic improvement from 2005.

From California - Research published in the Annals of Neurology finds a connection between narcolepsy and the flu. Researchers studied nearly 1000 narcolepsy patients, finding a peak in narcolepsy cases occurring 5-7 months following a peak in cold/flu or H1N1 infections.

And finally, from Atlanta - A healthy lifestyle significantly postpones mortality, according to a report published in the American Journal of Public Health. Studying nearly 17,000 individuals from 1988 - 2006, researchers found that those who did not smoke, exercised regularly, drank a moderate amount of alcohol and ate healthy had a 63% reduced risk of death during the study period.

Obese patients often misdiagnosed with asthma; New approach for treating systolic heart failure; Better predictor of heart attack and stroke (Video)

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 18:30:00 EDT

(Aug 19, 2011 - Insidermedicine) From the UK, research published in CHEST, the journal of the American College of Chest physicians, warns of the common misdiagnosis of asthma in obese patients. The study highlights the asthma-like symptoms that obese patients present with, such as breathlessness and laboured breathing. The researchers found that at the site of the study nearly 40% of obese patients had experiences a misdiagnosis of asthma. Also from the UK, research published in the Lancet reports on a novel approach for treating systolic heart failure. The new drug has shown in its first clinical trials to improve cardiac function in heart failure patients with impaired function of the left ventricle. The new drug works by prolonging contraction of the left ventricle, thereby increasing the volume of blood that the heart pumps. This appears to be a more effective and more efficient alternative to drugs which work by making the heart beat more often. From Baltimore, research also published in the Lancet shows that coronary calcium is a better predictor of heart attack and stroke than C-reactive protein in patients with normal levels of LDL cholesterol. The current research offers a new guideline for determining who among apparently healthy adults would benefit from cholesterol-lowering statin medication.

New Clue for Parkinson’s, Maternal IV tied to Newborn Weight Loss; Obesity not Always Unhealthy (video)

Mon, 15 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EDT

From Boston, a new study published online in Nature shows that a key protein in Parkinson’s disease seems to have been miscategorised. The protein, alpha-synuclein, has a much more orderly and complex structure than previously thought. This finding identifies new properties of the protein and serves to explain the protein’s behaviour, thereby revealing new therapeutic directions for potentially curing Parkinson’s disease. (http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/vaop/ncurrent/full/nature10324.html) From Ottawa, weight loss in a newborn baby may not be indicative of poor nutrition, according to research published in the International Breastfeeding Journal. Instead, neonate weight loss can also be attributed to mothers’ use of IV fluids during labour. The current research suggests that birth weight might be a poor baseline for assessing infant nutrition, and that a more appropriate baseline would a newborn’s weight 24 hours post birth. (http://www.internationalbreastfeedingjournal.com/content/6/1/10/abstract) From Toronto, a new study published in Applied Physiology, Nutrition and Metabolism has shown that healthy obese people can live just as long as slim people, and are even at lowered risk of dying of cardiovascular causes. The findings also suggest that going to excessive lengths to lose weight can be a more of a detriment than a boon in overweight people who are otherwise physically and nutritionally healthy. The researchers highlight the Edmonton Obesity Staging System (EOSS) as a more accurate tool than BMI at assessing health in overweight individuals. (http://www.nrcresearchpress.com/doi/abs/10.1139/h11-058)

Less Invasive Technique for managing Thyroid Tumors, Broad Spectrum Flu Antibody, Smoking Women more likely to develop Coronary Artery Disease - (Week in Review)

Sun, 14 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EDT

(Aug 14, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Chicago - Researchers at Northwestern Memorial Hospital have developed a new approach to performing biopsies on, and removing thyroid tumours. Previous surgeries would use an incision across the front of the neck, leaving a scar. The new technique enters through the underarm using 3D cameras, leaving no visible scar. Also, the scientists note that there are fewer nerve endings in the underarm area, so there is less pain after the surgery.

From Boston, In research also published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, scientists have discovered a human anti-body capable of recognizing many different flu strains. Unlike many vaccines which are either once-in-a-lifetime or require a booster shot every so many years, flu vaccines are typically redesigned and re-administered on an annual basis on account of the virus’s ability to change substantially from year-to-year. The current discovery offers insight into how we might create vaccines which stimulate antibodies capable of recognizing a broader range of flu virus strains.

Acute Care Surgery Service In ER Speeds Decision Making, Inflammation Pathway in Asthma, Hand Hygiene Reduces School Absenteeism (Week in Review)

Sat, 13 Aug 2011 07:00:00 EDT

(Aug 13, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

And finally, from Denmark - A new report published in the American Journal of Infection Control finds that increasing hand hygiene in elementary schools can decrease student absenteeism. Students were taught about proper hand hygiene and asked to use an ethanol gel 3 times a day. Comparing attendance from the study period, to the same period in the previous year there was a 66% decrease in the number of students who were absent for 4 or more days, and a 20% increase in children with zero absences

Smoking Women at Increased Risk of Coronary Artery Disease, High Levels of Banned Fire Retardants in Californian Women, Less Invasive Technique for managing Thyroid Tumors (Video)

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(Aug 12, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Baltimore - The risk of developing coronary artery disease associated with smoking is 25% higher for women than men. Published online by The Lancet, the researcher note that this difference is more likely due to physiological differences, rather than cultural or behavioural differences between the sexes

From California - In an article published in the journal "Environmental Science and Technology", researchers have found very high levels of certain banned fire retardants in 2nd trimester pregnant women in California. These compounds are linked to neurodevelopment problems in children and have been banned since the 70s.

From Chicago - Researchers at Northwestern Memorial Hospital have developed a new approach to performing biopsies on, and removing thyroid tumours. Previous surgeries would use an incision across the front of the neck, leaving a scar. The new technique enters through the underarm using 3D cameras, leaving no visible scar. Also, the scientists note that there are fewer nerve endings in the underarm area, so there is less pain after the surgery.

Inflammantion Pathway in Asthma, Broad Spectrum Flu Antibody, Resistance Training May Help Smokers Quit

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EDT

(Aug 11, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Pittsburg, a molecular pathway tied to increased mucus production and inflammation has been identified in asthma patients. The research, published in this week’s Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, reveals how epithelial cells in asthmatic patients differ from those who do not suffer from the disease, and offers the potential for novel treatment strategies.

From Boston, In research also published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, scientists have discovered a human anti-body capable of recognizing many different flu strains. Unlike many vaccines which are either once-in-a-lifetime or require a booster shot every so many years, flu vaccines are typically redesigned and re-administered on an annual basis on account of the virus’s ability to change substantially from year-to-year. The current discovery offers insight into how we might create vaccines which stimulate antibodies capable of recognizing a broader range of flu virus strains.

From Providence - Resistance training may not only help smokers quit, but may also help them stay smoke free. Published in the journal "Nicotine & Tobacco Research", those who participated 2 , 60 minute resistance training sessions per week, for 12 weeks, were twice as likely quit smoking than the control group. After three months the resistance training group was also twice as likely to have maintained their non-smoking lifestyle.

Acute Care Surgery Service In ER Speeds Decision Making, Cardiac Catheterization Use Varies By Hospital (Video)

Wed, 10 Aug 2011 18:30:00 EDT

(Aug 10, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Toronto - A report in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons finds that the use of an acute care surgery service in emergency departments can reduce the time it takes to make a decision about surgery by 15%. In a subgroup of appendicitis cases, researchers found a reduction in decision time of 30%. The researchers also found a 20% decrease when measuring emergency department overcrowding when using this service.

And finally, from North Carolina - A report in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology finds that hospitals in the US vary greatly in their use of cardiac catheterization, an invasive procedure, to find obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). Some hospitals found CAD 100% of the time when a patient underwent the procedure, other hospitals were as low as 23%. The researchers discovered that the hospitals with the low rates of finding CAD were more likely to perform the procedure on younger patients as well as those with lower risk of the disease.

Smoking Soon After Waking Increases Cancer Risk, Atrial Fibrillation Associated With Dementia, Hand Hygiene Reduces School Absenteeism

Mon, 8 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EDT

(Aug 8, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Pennsylvania - Two articles in the journal Cancer find that smoking right after waking up in the morning is associated with an increased risk of lung and head and neck cancers. When compared to people who had their first cigarette after 60 minutes, those who started smoking within 30 minutes were 1.79 times more likely to develop lung cancer, and1.59 times more likely to develop head and neck cancer.

From Seattle - Atrial fibrillation, a common cause of abnormal heart rhythms, may be associated with developing dementia. The research, published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, followed over 3000 people for an average 7 years, researchers found that those with atrial fibrillation had a 40-50% increased risk of developing dementia, including Alzheimer's.

And finally, from Denmark - A new report published in the American Journal of Infection Control finds that increasing hand hygiene in elementary schools can decrease student absenteeism. Students were taught about proper hand hygiene and asked to use an ethanol gel 3 times a day. Comparing attendance from the study period, to the same period in the previous year there was a 66% decrease in the number of students who were absent for 4 or more days, and a 20% increase in children with zero absences,

Urine Test Helps Prostate Cancer Screening, Per Physician Costs Higher in US than Canada, Anti-psychotics May Not Reduce PTSD Symptoms Among Veterans (Week in Review)

Sun, 7 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(August 7, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Michigan - A urine test may be able to detect early prostate cancer, according to a report published in Science Translational Medicine. In a study of over 1300 men., researchers found that a urine test that that measures the presence of a genetic anomaly occurring in nearly 50% of all prostate cancers significantly improved screening

From New York - American physicians spend much more time and money on health insurance costs than Canadian physicians, according to a report published in Health Affairs. Researchers found that American per-physician costs averaged nearly $83,000 annually, while Canadian per-physician costs averaged just over $22,000. As well, American nurses and medical staff spent roughly 21 hours a week on administrative duties while Canadians spent only 2.5 hours a week.

And finally, from Connecticut - A new report published in JAMA finds that antipsychotics do not appear effective at reducing PTSD symptoms among military veterans, . Researchers randomized nearly 300 veterans suffering from PTSD to an antipsychotic or placebo. After six month follow up, results showed that the antipsychotic was no better than placebo at reducing symptoms of PTSD

Even A Little Exercise Good for the Heart, Scientists Map Oligodendroglioma, Childhood Issues Linked to Health Problems in Adulthood (Week in Review)

Sat, 6 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(August 6, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Boston - Even a small amount of exercise reduces risk of heart disease, according to a report published in Circulation. Results of a meta-analysis examining over 3000 studies found that even just 150 minutes of moderate-to-intense physical activity a week reduced risk of heart disease by 14%, while the more time spent exercising reduced risk even further.

From Baltimore - Scientists have mapped the genes of the second most common form of brain cancer, according to a report published in Science. Researchers studied over 30 tissue samples of oligodendroglioma, finding two particular genetic mutations that must be present for the cancer to develop.

And finally, from New Zealand - Childhood adversity may be connected to health problems in adulthood, according to a report published in the Archives of General Psychiatry. Studying over 18,000 adults, researchers found that three or more adversities experienced in childhood (such as sexual abuse, maltreatment and family violence) was associated with increased risk of developing a wide variety of physical conditions later in life.

Urine Test Improves Prostate Cancer Screening, Vitamin D and Risk of Breast Cancer in African Americans, Childhood Adversity Raises Risk of Adulthood Health Problems (Video)

Fri, 5 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(August 5, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Michigan - A urine test may be able to detect early prostate cancer, according to a report published in Science Translational Medicine. In a study of over 1300 men, researchers found that a urine test that that measures the presence of a genetic anomaly occurring in nearly 50% of all prostate cancers significantly improved screening

From Florida - A new report presented at the Era of Hope conference finds that low levels of vitamin D raises risk of breast cancer in African American women. Researchers found that each 10 ng/mL increase in vitamin D was associated with a 64% reduced risk of triple negative breast cancer, and that African American women were nearly 6x more likely than European American women to have severe vitamin D deficiency.

And finally, from New Zealand - Childhood adversity may be connected to health problems in adulthood, according to a report published in tArchives of General Psychiatry. he Studying over 18,000 adults, researchers found that three or more adversities experienced in childhood (such as sexual abuse, maltreatment and family violence) was associated with increased risk of developing a wide variety of physical conditions later in life.

Brain Cancer Video: Scientists Map Genetics of Common Brain Cancer, American Per-Physician Costs Much More than Canadian's, Lowering Heart Failure Risk in Chemo Patients

Thu, 4 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(August 4, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Baltimore - Scientists have mapped the genes of the second most common form of brain cancer, according to a report published in Science. Researchers studied over 30 tissue samples of oligodendroglioma, finding two particular genetic mutations that must be present for the cancer to develop.

From New York - American physicians spend much more time and money on health insurance costs than Canadian physicians, according to a report published in Health Affairs. Researchers found that American per-physician costs averaged nearly $83,000 annually, while Canadian per-physician costs averaged just over $22,000. As well, American nurses and medical staff spent roughly 21 hours a week on administrative duties while Canadians spent only 2.5 hours a week.

And finally, from Germany - A new report published in Cell Stem Cell finds that a hormone may lower risk of heart failure in chemotherapy patients. Studying mice, researchers found that low doses of erythropoietin ensured that cardiac stem cells functioned properly, reducing risk of heart failure.

Every Bit of Exercise Helps Reduce Heart Disease, Gender Based Violence Linked to Mood and Mental Health Disorders in Women, Anti-psychotics Ineffective for PTSD (Video)

Wed, 3 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(August 3, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Australia - Gender based violence greatly increases risk of a wide variety of disorders in women, according to a report published in JAMA. Researchers studied over 4400 women, finding that those exposed to gender based violence such as rape, sexual assault and intimate partner violence, were much more likely to suffer mental health disorders, mood disorders and substance abuse problems.

And finally, from Connecticut - A new report published in JAMA finds that antipsychotics do not appear effective at reducing PTSD symptoms among military veterans, . Researchers randomized nearly 300 veterans suffering from PTSD to an antipsychotic or placebo. After six month follow up, results showed that the antipsychotic was no better than placebo at reducing symptoms of PTSD

Genes Linked to Heart Attack More Important than Stroke, Fructose Linked to Heart Disease Risk Factors, Cell Phones Not Linked to Brain Cancer in Adolescents (Week in Review)

Sun, 31 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(July 31 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Oxford - Genetics factor more into one's risk of heart attack than stroke, according to a report published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Genetics. Researchers studied over 900 individuals with acute heart ailments, over 1000 individuals who suffered an acute cerebral event, as well as the families of each patient. They found that family history was a much stronger predictor of heart attack than it was for stroke.

From California - Fructose consumption may raise risk of heart disease, according to a report published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism. Researchers studied nearly 50 adults whose daily calorie consumption was 25% glucose, fructose, or high fructose corn syrup. After two weeks, researchers found that consumption of fructose or fructose corn syrup increased LDL cholesterol, triglycerides and apolipoprotein-B--all risk factors for heart disease.

And finally, from Switzerland - Cell phones do not raise risk of brain cancer in children and adolescents, according to a report published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. Researchers examined over 350 adolescent brain cancer patients and over 600 controls, finding no statistically significant increased risk for those who reported using a cell phone.

Methamphetamine Use Linked to Parkinson's Disease, Livestock Farm Living May Raise Blood Cancer Risk, Muscle Mass Connected to Insulin Sensitivity (Week in Review)

Sat, 30 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(July 30, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Toronto- Methamphetamine use significantly raises risk of Parkinson's disease, according to a report released by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. Researchers studied nearly 300,000 hospital records from California, where methamphetamine use is prevalent. They found that individuals admitted to hospital for methamphetamine related disorders had 76% increased risk of developing Parkinson's later in life.

From New Zealand - Growing up on a farm with livestock may raise risk of blood cancer, according to a report published in Occupational and Environmental Medicine. Studying over 110,000 death certificates, researchers found that individuals who had grown up on a livestock farm were at 22% increased risk of developing blood cancers such as multiple myeloma, leukaemia, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

And finally, from California - More muscle mass may lower risk of insulin resistance (pre-diabetes), according to a report published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism. Studying over 13,600 individuals, researchers found that increased muscle mass was linked to better insulin sensitivity and a reduced risk of pre-diabetes

Stroke Video: Traumatic Brain Injury Drastically Raises Risk of Stroke, Introducing Maspin to Cancer Nucleus May Prevent Metastasis, Pregnancy Related Strokes Rising Dramatically

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(July 29, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Taiwan - Traumatic brain injuries drastically raise risk of stroke, according to a report published in Stroke. Comparing over 23,000 TBI patients to nearly 70,000 controls, researchers found that a TBI increased risk of stroke tenfold in the first three months following injury.

From London - Research published in Laboratory Investigation identifies a novel approach to fighting cancer spread. Scientists tested two aggressive cancer cells in the laboratory, and found that introduction of the cellular protein maspin into the cancer cell's nucleus significantly slowed growth and metastasis.

And finally, from Atlanta - A new report published in Stroke finds a dramatic increase in pregnancy related stroke hospitalizations. Researchers studied women who were pregnant or had just given birth, finding a 54% increase in hospitalizations for stroke from 1994-2007.

Heart Disease Video: Fructose Linked to Risk Factors for Heart Disease, Tamoxifen for 5 Years Improves Survival in Breast Cancer Patients, Muscle Mass Reduces Risk of Pre-Diabetes

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(July 28, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From California - Fructose consumption may raise risk of heart disease, according to a report published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism. Researchers studied nearly 50 adults whose daily calorie consumption was 25% glucose, fructose, or high fructose corn syrup. After two weeks, researchers found that consumption of fructose or fructose corn syrup increased LDL cholesterol, triglycerides and apolipoprotein-B--all risk factors for heart disease.

From Oxford - 5 year tamoxifen therapy greatly improves survival for most breast cancer patients, according to a report published in the Lancet. Results of a meta-analysis covering over 20,000 breast cancer patients found that full compliance with a 5 year tamoxifen regimen reduced long term risk of death by at least 33%.

And finally, from California - More muscle mass may lower risk of insulin resistance (pre-diabetes), according to a report published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism. Studying over 13,600 individuals, researchers found that increased muscle mass was linked to better insulin sensitivity and a reduced risk of pre-diabetes

Cancer Video: Breast Density Linked to Risk of Breast Cancer, Livestock Living May Raise Risk of Blood Cancer, Cell Phones Do Not Raise Brain Cancer Risk in Kids

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(July 27, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Boston - Breast density raises risk of aggressive breast cancer, according to a report published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. Researchers compared mammography's of over 1000 breast cancer patients to nearly 1800 controls. They found that women with dense breasts were at increased risk of breast cancer as well as more aggressive forms of the disease.

From New Zealand - Growing up on a farm with livestock may raise risk of blood cancer, according to a report published in Occupational and Environmental Medicine. Studying over 110,000 death certificates, researchers found that individuals who had grown up on a livestock farm were at 22% increased risk of developing blood cancers such as multiple myeloma, leukaemia, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

And finally, from Switzerland - Cell phones do not raise risk of brain cancer in children and adolescents, according to a report published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. Researchers examined over 350 adolescent brain cancer patients and over 600 controls, finding no statistically significant increased risk for those who reported using a cell phone.

Genetics Determine Heart Attack More than Stroke, Methamphetamine Use Linked to Parkinson's Disease, No Difference Between Total and Sentinel Lymph Node Removal (Video)

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EDT

(July 26, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Oxford - Genetics factor more into one's risk of heart attack than stroke, according to a report published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Genetics. Researchers studied over 900 individuals with acute heart ailments, over 1000 individuals who suffered an acute cerebral event, as well as the families of each patient. They found that family history was a much stronger predictor of heart attack than it was for stroke.

Diabetes Video: Blood Glucose Test Helps Predict Heart Disease in Diabetics, Crossing the Street Not As Easy for Kids with ADHD, Falling May Signal Alzheimer's Disease

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 17:15:00 EDT

(July 25, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Boston - Blood glucose measurements help predict risk of heart disease in diabetic patients, according to a report published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. Studying over 35,000 men and women, researchers found that measuring hemoglobin A1C levels in those who had diabetes greatly improved heart disease risk predictions.

From Alabama - A new report published in Pediatrics finds that children with ADHD are less adept at crossing the street safely. Researchers studied nearly 80 children, half of whom had ADHD. They found that while the children with ADHD stopped and looked both ways before crossing the street, they were more likely to cross when there was little spare time to do so.

And finally, from St. Louis - Frequent falls may be an early sign of Alzheimer's disease, according to a report presented at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference. Studying brain scans of over 125 older individuals, researchers found that those who had higher levels of amyloid plaques had over 2x increased risk of falls

Height May Raise Risk of Cancer, Surgeon's Civility Improves Patient Care in Many Ways, Physical Activity Reduces Risk of Cognitive Decline (Week in Review)

Sat, 23 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(July 23, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From the UK - Taller women may be at raised risk of cancer, according to a report published in in the Lancet Oncology. Studying over 1 million women for nearly 10 years, researchers found that risk of cancer raised approximately 16% for every 4 inch increase in height

From California - A commentary published in the Archives of Surgery finds that a surgeon's civility can greatly improve patient care. Researchers found a correlation between a surgeon's civility in the operating room and fewer post-operative complications. They also found that two thirds of nurses and pharmacists avoid confrontation with difficult physicians, even when they disagree with their choice of medication, an aspect that greatly affects patient care.

And finally, from France - Research published in the Archives of Internal Medicine finds an association between physical activity and cognitive function. Studying nearly 3000 women for over 5 years, researchers found that as energy expenditure increased, likelihood of cognitive decline decreased.

Erlotinib Greatly Improves Survival in Lung Cancer Patients, Mothers Who Work Early in Child's Life Do Not Affect Their Development, Belly Fat Linked to Heart Disease in Obese (Video)

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(July 22, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From China - Erlotinib greatly improves survival in most lung cancer patients, according to a report published in the Lancet Oncology. Studying 165 patients with non-small-cell lung cancer, researchers found that the drug erlotinib nearly tripled progression free survival when compared to chemotherapy.

From the UK - A new report released by the Economic and Social Research Council examines the effect working mothers have on their children. Using data from the UK Millennium Cohort Study, researchers found that a mother working early in her child's life caused no noticeable detriment to the child's emotional or social development.

And finally, from Sweden - Belly fat may predict risk of heart disease in obese individuals, according to a report published in Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology. Researchers studied nearly 40 men, 28 of whom were obese. They found that elevated levels of liver and belly fat in the obese men increased risk of heart disease .

Stroke Video: Optimism May Decrease Risk of Stroke, Breastfeeding Reduces Risk of Asthma in Children, Atherosclerosis' Association With Cognitive Impairment

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(July 21, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Michigan - Optimists may be at reduced risk of stroke, according to a report published in Stroke. Studying over 6000 adults over the age of 50 for two years, researchers found that each one point increase in an optimism scale reduced an individual's risk of stroke by 9%.

From the Netherlands - Breastfeeding may lower risk of children developing asthma, according to a report published in the European Respiratory Journal. Researchers examined data on more than 5000 children, finding that those who were never fed breast milk had 1.4x increased risk of wheezing and 1.5x increased risk of persistent phlegm, when compared to children who were only fed breast milk for up to 6 months.

And finally, from Chicago - Atherosclerosis is also associated with dementia, according to a scientific statement published in Stroke. Researchers found that plaque build-up in the arteries can reduce blood flow to the brain, causing cerebrovascular disease and vascular cognitive impairment. Researchers believe this dementia may be the most common form seen in older individuals.

Cancer Video: Tall Women May Be At Raised Risk of Cancer, Inherited Alzheimer's Can Be Detected Decades Before Symptoms Start, Maternal Smoking Linked to Heart Disease

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(July 20, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From the UK - Taller women may be at raised risk of cancer, according to a report published in in the Lancet Oncology. Studying over 1 million women for nearly 10 years, researchers found that risk of cancer raised approximately 16% for every 4 inch increase in height.

From Paris - Inherited Alzheimer's disease may be detectable up to 20 years before memory problems even begin, according to a report presented at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference. Researchers studied nearly 200 individuals who carry a rare genetic mutation that predisposes them to Alzheimer's. They detected brain changes in the individuals up to 20 years before their expected onset of symptoms.

And finally, from California - Scientists have found more evidence linking maternal smoking to heart disease later in life, according to a report published in the British Journal of Pharmacology. Results of animal study found that nicotine while pregnant resulted in higher blood pressure and blood vessel changes in the offspring, aspects that raise risk of heart disease.

Heart Attack Video: Married Men Seek Care for Heart Attack Sooner, Civility from Surgeon Improves Patient Care and Outcomes, Milk and Soy Protein Supplement May Lower Blood Pressure

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(July 18, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Toronto - Married men seek care for heart attacks sooner than men who are single, according to a report published in CMAJ. Studying over 4400 heart attack patients, researchers found that 75% of married men arrived at the hospital within 6 hours of symptom onset, compared to 68% of single men, 69% of divorced men and 71% of widowed men.

From California - A commentary published in the Archives of Surgery finds that a surgeon's civility can greatly improve patient care. Researchers found a correlation between a surgeon's civility in the operating room and fewer post-operative complications. They also found that two thirds of nurses and pharmacists avoid confrontation with difficult physicians, even when they disagree with their choice of medication, an aspect that greatly affects patient care.

And finally, from New Orleans - Milk and soy protein supplements may lower blood pressure, according to a repot published in Circulation. Randomizing over 300 adults to either milk, soy or refined carbohydrate dietary supplements, researchers found that both the milk and soy supplements reduced systolic blood pressure when compared to the carb supplement

Alcohol Guidelines Fail to Account For Cancer Risk, Treating Early Stage Prostate Cancer with Hormone Replacement, Secondhand Smoke Linked to ADHD (Week in Review)

Sat, 16 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(July 16, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From France - Research published in Canadian Medical Association Journal argues that current alcohol consumption guidelines do not do enough to prevent cancer. Researchers believe that current guidelines focus too much on the short term effects of alcohol consumption, and do not take into account the long term association between alcohol and cancer. The researchers argue that guidelines need to be reviewed and reformed to adequately address this risk.

From Philadelphia - A new report published in the New England Journal of Medicine identifies a new approach to treating early stage prostate cancer. Studying nearly 2000 men with low-intermediate risk prostate cancer for over 9 years, researchers found that treatment with short term hormone therapy in combination with radiation therapy raised 10 year survival rate from 57% to 62%.

And finally, from Boston - Secondhand smoke exposure may raise risk of childhood learning disorders, according to a report published in Pediatrics. Researchers studied over 55,000 children under 12 years of age, finding that those exposed to secondhand smoke had 50% increased risk of neurobehavioral disorders such as ADHD.

Cancer Video: Predicting Melanoma Spread May Be Possible, Bariatric Surgery Cost Effective Vs. Costs of Obesity, Coffee and Tea May Lower MRSA Risk

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(July 15, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Boston - A new report published in Cancer Cell identifies a gene that may predict melanoma metastases. Researchers studied two types of mice, one whose melanoma never spreads and the other whose melanoma always spreads. They found that early stage tumours contained six genes that promote both cancer development and metastasis.

From St. Louis - Bariatric surgery is cost effective for all degrees of obese individuals, according to a report published in Maturitas. Results of a meta-analysis found that expanding the amount of obese individuals allowed to undergo weight loss surgery to include the mildly obese would be more cost-effective than enduring the lifelong healthcare costs associated with obesity.

And finally, from South Carolina - Coffee and tea consumption may protect against MRSA infection, according to a report published in the Annals of Family Medicine. Studying over 5500 adults, researchers found that those who drank coffee or tea had a significantly reduced risk of harbouring MRSA in their nostrils

HIV Video: Antiretroviral Therapy Very Effective at Preventing New HIV Infections, Breath Test for H1N1 Infections, ECGs for Young Athletes May Be Impractical

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(July 14, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Atlanta - Antiretroviral drugs are effective at preventing HIV infections, according to a report released by the CDC. Researchers gave 1200 sexually active African males either Truvada or placebo, finding that the antiretroviral medication reduced new HIV infections by 63%, and that those who took the drug regularly reduced new infections by 78%.

From Cleveland - Scientists have developed a novel breath test for H1N1 influenza, according to a report published in the Journal of Breath Research. Researchers gave 11 individuals a live attenuated H1N1 vaccination, and administered a breath test measuring the participants nitric oxide (a biomolecule previously linked to viral infections). Results showed a significant peak in NO levels in all individuals the third day after vaccination.

And finally, from California - ECGs in young athletes may not prevent sudden cardiac death, according to a report published in the Journal of Pediatrics. Researchers had 53 pediatric cardiologists examine 18 ECGs, 8 from healthy children and 10 from children with a heart condition that raises risk of sudden cardiac death. Results showed that the cardiologists had fairly low accuracy in assessing the ECGs, suggesting that routine screening in young athletes may be impractical

New Therapy Plan for Early Stage Prostate Cancer Patients, Predicting Heart Attack Risk in HIV Patients, HIN1 Vaccine Not Connected to Guillan-Barre Syndrome (Video)

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(July 13, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Philadelphia - A new report published in the New England Journal of Medicine identifies a new approach to treating early stage prostate cancer. Studying nearly 2000 men with low-intermediate risk prostate cancer for over 9 years, researchers found that treatment with short term hormone therapy in combination with radiation therapy raised 10 year survival rate from 57% to 62%.

From New York - An ultrasound of the heart may help predict heart attack risk in HIV patients, according to a report published in Circulation:Cardiovascular Imaging. Studying over 300 HIV patients, researchers found that risk of heart attack was strongly connected to abnormal findings on a stress echocardiography test.

And finally, from the Netherlands - The H1N1 vaccine is not associated with Guillan-Barre syndrome, according to a report published in the British Medical Journal. European researchers examined 104 cases of Guillan-Barre syndrome during the 2009 H1N1 pandemic. After adjusting for risk factors, researchers found no association between vaccination and the syndrome.

Autism Video: Possible Biomarker For Autism Identified, Alcohol Guidelines Fail to Address Cancer Risk, Sleep Apnea May Cause Blood Vessel Abnormalities

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(July 12, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Cambridge - A new report published in Translational Psychiatry identifies a biomarker that may be linked to autism. Researchers compared 40 families that had one teenager with autism and one without to 40 teens with no family history of the condition. They found that the teens with autism and their siblings both had reduced activity in a part of the brain known to influence empathy, while the teens with no family history had normal brain functioning.

From France - Research published in Canadian Medical Association Journal argues that current alcohol consumption guidelines do not do enough to prevent cancer. Researchers believe that current guidelines focus too much on the short term effects of alcohol consumption, and do not take into account the long term association between alcohol and cancer. The researchers argue that guidelines need to be reviewed and reformed to adequately address this risk.

And finally, from the UK - Sleep apnea may cause blood vessel abnormalities, according to a report published in Hypertension. Studying over 100 individuals, researchers found that those with obstructive sleep apnea but were otherwise healthy had impaired blood vessel functioning, though 26 weeks of CPAP treatment greatly improved blood function.

Blood Pressure Video: Social Mobility May Reduce Hypertension Risk, Contact Allergies Could Reduce Risk of Certain Cancers, Secondhand Smoke Linked to ADHD in Kids

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(July 11, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Sweden - Upwards social mobility may reduce risk of high blood pressure, according to a report published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health. Researchers examined data on 12,000 twins born between 1929 and 1958, whose parental occupations were recorded at birth. Results showed that low socioeconomic status was associated with a 42% increased risk of hypertension, while those who moved up the social ladder over two generations had nearly 20% reduced risk of hypertension.

From Denmark - People with contact allergies may be at reduced risk of cancer, according to a report published in BMJ Open. Researchers studied nearly 17,000 adults with contact allergies--allergies caused by direct contact with certain metals and chemicals. They found that those with these allergies were less likely to develop breast and non-melanoma skin cancers.

And finally, from Boston - Secondhand smoke exposure may raise risk of childhood learning disorders, according to a report published in Pediatrics. Researchers studied over 55,000 children under 12 years of age, finding that those exposed to secondhand smoke had 50% increased risk of neurobehavioral disorders such as ADHD.

NSAIDS Linked to Atrial Fibrillation, Moderate Salt Reduction in Diet Not Enough, Chemical Response to Stress Determines Personality (Week in Review)

Sun, 10 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EDT

Too Much Time Sitting May Raise Risk of Blood Clots in Women, Air Pollution May Cause Memory Problems, Celecoxib Improves Lungs in Former Smokers (Week in Review)

Sat, 9 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(July 9, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Ohio - Air pollution may raise risk of depression, as well as learning and memory problems, according to a report published in Molecular Psychiatry. Researchers exposed mice to either filtered air or polluted air for 6 hours a day, 5 days a week for a 10 month period. Results showed that mice exposed to the polluted air had impaired memory on a variety of tests, and also showed increased inflammation in the hippocampus--an area of the brain responsible for mood, memory and learning.

And finally, from California - A cox-2 inhibitor may be able to prevent lung cancer in former smokers, according to a report published in Cancer Prevention Research. Randomizing 137 former smokers to either celecoxib or placebo, researchers found that the cox-2 inhibitor greatly improved measures of lung health and also reduced lung nodules.

New Antibody May Lead to Universal Flu Vaccination, Hypoallergenic Dogs No Different than Other Dogs, Child's Temperament Linked to Cortisol Levels (Video)

Fri, 8 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(July 8, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From California - - According to new research published in the journal Science Express, researchers have found an antibody that is effective against a variety of influenza strains, including seasonal and pandemic strains. Currently, flu shots change from year to year based on predictions of what flu strains will be most prevalent. This new antibody may simplify flu vaccine development, and help protect against unforeseen flu strains.

From Detroit - Hypoallergenic dogs have no less allergens than other dogs, according to a report published in the American Journal of Rhinology and Allergy. Researchers studied dust samples from nearly 200 homes containing 60 different dog breeds. They found no evidence that so-called hypoallergenic dogs produced less saliva, dander and fur than non-hypoallergenic dogs.

And finally, from Rochester - A new report published in Developmental Psychology connects a child's temperament to their hormonal response to stress. Researchers studied over 200 two year olds, finding that those who were cautious and submissive in the face of stress had higher cortisol levels, while children who were assertive and bold in the face of stress had lower cortisol levels.

Autism Linked to Environmental Factors in Infancy, Moderate Salt Reduction Has Little Effect on Death Risk, Celecoxib Improves Lungs in Former Smokers (Video)

Wed, 6 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(July 6, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From New York - Autism may be caused more by environmental factors than genetics, according to a report published in the Archives of General Psychiatry. Researchers studied nearly 200 pairs of twins, at least one of who had autism spectrum disorder. They estimated that environmental factors in early infancy such as birth weight and pregnancy complications increased risk of autism by 58%, while genetic heritability only increased risk by 38%.

From the Uk - Reducing salt from the diet may not reduce risk of death, according to a report published in the Cochrane Library. Results of a meta analysis covering nearly 6500 participants found that a moderate decrease in salt consumption did not reduce risk of heart disease or death. Researchers believe a bigger reduction in salt consumption would, however, reduce risk of heart disease and death.

And finally, from California - A cox-2 inhibitor may be able to prevent lung cancer in former smokers, according to a report published in Cancer Prevention Research. Randomizing 137 former smokers to either celecoxib or placebo, researchers found that the cox-2 inhibitor greatly improved measures of lung health and also reduced lung nodules.

Vitamin D May Improve Survival in Elderly Women, Pollution Linked to Memory and Mood Problems, Erlotinib Improves Survival in Lung Cancer Patients (Video)

Tue, 5 Jul 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(July 5, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Serbia - Vitamin D may improve survival in elderly women, according to a report published in The Cochrane Library. Results of a meta-anaylsis covering 50 trials and nearly 100,000 participants found that giving vitamin D3 to elderly women reduced mortality rates by about 6%.

From Ohio - Air pollution may raise risk of depression, as well as learning and memory problems, according to a report published in Molecular Psychiatry. Researchers exposed mice to either filtered air or polluted air for 6 hours a day, 5 days a week for a 10 month period. Results showed that mice exposed to the polluted air had impaired memory on a variety of tests, and also showed increased inflammation in the hippocampus--an area of the brain responsible for mood, memory and learning.

And finally, from France - The drug erlotinib significantly improves survival in lung cancer patients, according to a report presented and the World Conference on Lung Cancer. Randomizing nearly 200 lung cancer patients to either erlotinib or chemotherapy, researchers found that progression free survival with erlotinib was 9.4 months compared with only 5.2 months for chemotherapy.

Women Who Spend Too Much Time Sitting At Raised Risk of Blood Clot, NSAIDS Linked to Atrial Fibrillation, Parents on Military Deployment May Affect Mental Health of Children (Video)

Mon, 4 Jul 2011 18:30:00 EDT

(July 4, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Boston - Research published in the British Medical Journal finds that women who sit for long periods are more likely to develop blood clots in the lungs. Following nearly 70,000 women for 18 years, researchers found that women who spent over 41 hours a week outside of work sitting were at 2x increased risk of suffering a pulmonary embolism.

From Denmark - A commonly used painkiller may raise risk of atrial fibrillation, according to a report published in the British Medical Journal. Researchers compared over 32,000 atrial fibrillation patients to a group of healthy controls. They found that new users of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) had a roughly 40% increased risk of atrial fibrillation and new users of cox-2 inhibitors had around a 70% increased risk of the irregular heart rhythm.

And finally, from North Carolina - The longer a parent is on military deployment, the more likely a child is to suffer a mental health problem, according to research published in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine. Studying over 300,000 children, researchers found that a mental health diagnosis was more likely in those who had a parent deployed, and that this risk increased the longer the parent was away

Drop Side Cribs Banned for Sale in US, Alcohol Blackouts Predict Future Injury in Students, Long Term Benefits of Mammography (Week in Review)

Sun, 3 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EDT

Pre-Pregnancy Diet Affects Health of Child, Drop Side Cribs Banned from Being Made, Sold or Donated, Coordination Between EMS and Hospitals Improves Heart Attack Treatment (Video)

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(July 1, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Scotland - Research presented at the Society for Experimental Biology's annual conference finds that a poor pre-pregnancy diet can negatively impact health of the offspring. Researchers fed mice a low protein diet for 10 weeks prior to becoming pregnant. They found that these mice had lower birth rates, slower catch up growth and increased insulin sensitivity.

From Washington - The US Consumer Product Safety Commission is banning drop side cribs. Due to suffocation concerns, no companies will be allowed to manufacture or sell drop side cribs starting June 2011. The organization is also banning the donation and resale of drop side cribs, even at garage sales.

And finally, from North Carolina - A coordinated system between emergency medical services and hospitals can improve heart attack treatment time, according to a report published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes. Studying over 400 heart attack patients, researchers found that coordination between the EMS and hospitals greatly reduced the amount of time it took to transfer the patient to a capable facility to receive treatment.

Avastin Video: FDA Revokes Use of Avastin for Breast Cancer, Alcohol Blackouts in Students Predicts Future Injury, Babies' Brains May Be More Developed than Previously Thought

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EDT

(June 30, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Maryland - The FDA has revoked the use of Avastin for breast cancer. The organization's advisory committee voted unanimously to strip Avastin (bevacizumab) of it's breast cancer indication, after study results showed that the drug failed to show any clinical benefit and was also unsafe.

From Wisconsin - Alcohol induced blackouts among students predicts risk of future injury, according to a report published in Injury Prevention. Studying nearly 1000 students from 5 different universities, researchers found that one to two memory blackouts caused by alcohol increased risk of injury by 57%, while 6 or more blackouts raised risk threefold.

And finally, from London - Research published in Current Biology finds that babies brians may be more developed than previously thought. Researchers found that 3-7 month old babies showed greater brain activity when listening to human voices and emotions when compared to environmental sounds. These results may provide insight into social interaction and learning.

Lung Cancer Video: CT Scans for Lung Cancer Reduce Death Rates, Obesity Major Cause of Death Among Women, Mammography Reduces Breast Cancer Death Rates

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EDT

(June 29, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Providence - CT screening for lung cancer can significantly reduce lung cancer deaths, according to a report published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Results from a national study covering over 53,000 long term smokers found that CT screening for lung cancer reduced deaths from the disease by 20% when compared to x ray.

From Scotland - Obesity is a major cause of death in women who have never smoked, according to a report published in the British Medical Journal. Studying over 3600 non-smoking women for nearly 30 years, researchers found that severe obesity was prevalent among those who died during the study period and was also associated with increased death rates among those in a lower income group.

And finally, from London - A new report published in Radiology examines the long term benefits of regular mammography screening. Researchers studied over 130,000 for 30 years, finding that 30% less women who had regular mammography screening died of breast cancer when compered to women who were not screened regularly.

Biomarker May Enable Early Detection of Alzheimer's Disease, Pregnant Smokers Decrease Good Cholesterol in Offspring, Safety of Stents in Low Risk Heart Patients (Week in Review)

Sun, 26 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(June 26, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Germany - A new report published in Neurology identifies a biomarker that may assist in the early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Researchers studied nearly 60 individuals with mild cognitive impairment, finding that measuring the tau protein in the cerebrospinal fluid in combination with the persons age was approx. 80% accurate in predicting who would develop Alzheimer's disease.

From Australia - Smoking while pregnant may lower good cholesterol levels in the child, according to a report published in European Heart Journal. Studying over 400 children since birth, researchers found that by age 8, children born to mothers who smoked during pregnancy had noticeably lower HDL cholesterol levels than children whose mothers did not smoke during pregnancy.

And finally, from California - A new report published in Catheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions examines the safety of angioplasty with stents in low risk heart patients. Researchers studied over 200 patients with left main coronary artery disease but with normal artery function. Results showed that stenting had favourable outcomes in these patients in reducing their risk of cardiac death.

Alzheimer's Disease Video: Biomarker May Predict Alzheimer's Disease, Fat Substitutes Increase Weight Gain, Vitamin A Deficiency Not Connected to Asthma

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(June 24, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Indiana - Fat substitutes may raise risk of weight gain, according to a report published in Behavioural Neuroscience. Researchers found that an animal model fed crushed potato chips that contained synthetic fat were more likely to gain weight than an animal model fed regular high fat chips.

And finally, from Baltimore - Vitamin A lack does not raise risk of asthma, according to a report published in European Respiratory Journal. Randomizing over 5000 children to either placebo or vitamin A supplements, researchers found no difference between the two groups in respect to the development of asthma.

Life in Urban Area May Raise Anxiety Risk, One Quarter of Fatal Car Crashes Linked to Drugs, Safety of Stents in Some Low Risk Heart Patients (Video)

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(June 23, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Quebec - City life may raise risk of anxiety and mood disorders, according to a report published in Nature. Results of MRI imaging found that those who were born and raised in a a major urban area had increased activity in two areas of the brain known to regulate stress and emotion.

From Maryland - Research published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs finds that a significant amount of fatal car crashes are due to drugs. From 1998-2009, over 44,000 US drivers were fatally injured in a car crash. Approximately 25% of these were found to be under the influence of drugs.

And finally, from California - A new report published in Catheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions examines the safety of angioplasty with stents in low risk heart patients. Researchers studied over 200 patients with left main coronary artery disease but with normal artery function. Results showed that stenting had favourable outcomes in these patients in reducing their risk of cardiac death.

Diabetes Video: Statins Linked to Development of Diabetes, Various Dietary Habits Lead to Long Term Weight Gain, Marriage May Reduce Risk of Dying from Colon Cancer

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(June 22, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Glasgow - Intensive statin therapy raises risk of diabetes, according to a report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Results of a meta-analysis covering over 32,000 patients taking statin therapy found that a moderate to intensive regimen of the drug increased risk of new-onset diabetes. The regimen did, however, lower risk of cardiovascular events.

From Boston - Research published in the New England Journal of Medicine examines how several changes in dietary habits lead to long term weight gain. Researchers studied over 50,000 women every four years for up to 20 years. They found that every increase in daily consumption of chips, sugar-sweetened beverages, unprocessed and processed meats was associated with excess weight gain every four years.

And finally, from Pennsylvania - Being married may increase one's odds of surviving colon cancer, according to a report published in Cancer Epidemiology. Studying records on nearly 130,000 colon cancer patients, researchers found that those who were married had a 14% reduced risk of dying from the disease

Smoking During Pregnancy Linked with Lower Good Cholesterol Levels in Child, Drowning Dangers of Portable Pools, Prostate Cancer Patients Who Smoke At Raised Death Risk (Video)

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 18:15:00 EDT

(June 21, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Ohio - Portable pools present a significant drowning danger to children, according to a report published in Pediatrics. US researchers studied safety data on portable, inflatable and wading pools over an eight year period. The found that one child drowned in these pools every five days during the summer months.

And finally, from Boston - A new report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association finds that smoking may raise risk of death in men with prostate cancer. Studying over 5300 prostate cancer patients, researchers found that men who smoked had a 61% increased risk of cancer recurrence as well as a 61% increased risk of dying from the disease.

Heart Disease Kills More Women Than Breast Cancer, News Outlets Differ on Solutions to Childhood Obesity, Improving Survival Among Heart Attack Patients (Video)

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(June 20, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Colorado - Breast cancer is not the leading cause of death among women, according to a report published in Breast Cancer Research. Studying over 60,000 breast cancer patients for up to 12 years, researchers found that two thirds of these women died from other causes, and that more died from heart disease over the study period than from breast cancer.

From Baltimore - A new report published in Pediatrics finds that particular news outlets present different solutions to childhood obesity. Researchers studied nearly 20 different national and regional news stories on childhood obesity, finding that newspapers were more likely to focus on systemic changes as a solution to childhood obesity, while TV news sources were more likely to focus on individual based, lifestyle changes as a solution.

And finally, from Toronto - Taking shorter pauses in between CPR and defibrillator use can improve survival among heart attack patients, according to research published in Circulation. Studying 800 heart attack patients, researchers found that those who had a pause of 10 seconds or less before receiving an electric shock from the defibrillator had higher survival rates than those who waited over 20 seconds.

TV Time Linked to Heart Disease, Diabetes and Death, Low Carb High Protein Diet May Reduce Cancer Risk, Early Pet Exposure Lowers Risk of Pet Allergy (Week in Review)

Sun, 19 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(June 19, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Boston - Too much television may raise risk of diabetes and heart disease, according to a report published in JAMA. Results of a meta-analysis found that every additional two hours spent watching TV increased risk of type 2 diabetes by 20%, risk of heart disease by 15% and risk of premature death by 13%.

From British Columbia - A low carbohydrate, high protein diet may reduce risk of cancer, according to a report published in Cancer Research. Scientists studied mice predisposed to breast cancer, finding that 70% of rodents who ate a Western diet died from cancer while only 30% of those on a low carb/high protein diet developed the disease.

And finally, from Detroit - Children who are exposed to pets early are at reduced risk of pet allergies, according to a report published in Clinical and Experimental Allergy. Studying over 500 individuals, researchers found that boys who lived with a dog before 12 months old had a roughly 50% reduced risk of developing a dog allergy, and boys and girls living with a cat before 12 months had 48% reduced risk of a cat allergy.

Ranibizumab Can Help Reduce AMD Related Blindness, Olive Oil May Lower Risk of Stroke, FDA Installs New Sunscreen Labeling Rules (Week in Review)

Sat, 18 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(June 18, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Baltimore - A new report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association estimates the potential of Lucentis in preventing blindness from AMD. Researchers estimate that if Lucentis were not given to 103,000 eligible individuals with AMD, over 16,000 of these patients would eventually go blind. They found that monthly Lucentis injections could be able to reduce these rates of blindness by 72% over two years.

From France - Olive oil may reduce risk of stroke, according to a report published in Neurology. Researchers studied over 7600 elderly individuals, finding that those who consumed olive oil regularly in their diet had a 41% reduced risk of stroke when compared to those who never used it at all.

And finally, from Washington - The FDA is installing new rules regarding sunscreen labelling. The new guidelines maintain that the terms 'waterproof', 'sweatproof' or 'sunblock' are impossible to claim and will be banned. As well, sunscreens that are proven to block both UVA and UVB radiation will be labeled 'broad spectrum', and any sunscreen with a SPF between 2 and 14 will now come with a warning label.

Lung Cancer Video: Fewer Women Dying From Lung Cancer, Postnatal Depression Linked to Depression in Children, Teens Drink Mostly Healthy Beverages

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(June 17, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Atlanta - Lung cancer death rates among women are declining, according to a report published in CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians. The report, which comes from the American Cancer Society, found that lung cancer deaths among women fell nearly 1% per year from 2003 to 2007, the first such decline in recorded history.

From the UK - Mothers suffering from postnatal depression increase risk of depression in their children, according to a report published in Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Researchers followed 100 mothers and their children for up to 16 years, finding that a clinical diagnosis of postnatal depression increased the offspring's risk of depression by age 16 by over 40%.

And finally, from Atlanta - Research published in Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report finds that teens, for the most part, drink healthy beverages. Studying over 11000 teenagers, researchers found that nearly 75% reported drinking at least one glass of water a day and 42% reported drinking one glass of milk a day. However, nearly one quarter of teens also reported that they drank a soda daily

Stroke Video: Olive Oil Nearly Halves Risk of Stroke, Hospital Information May Help Police Prevent Violence, Syphilis Screening May Cut Stillbirth Risk

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(June 16, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From France - Olive oil may reduce risk of stroke, according to a report published in Neurology. Researchers studied over 7600 elderly individuals, finding that those who consumed olive oil regularly in their diet had a 41% reduced risk of stroke when compared to those who never used it at all.

From the UK - Sharing anonymous hospital information with the police can help prevent violence, according to a report published in the British Medical Journal. Researchers studied a program in which certain cities shared anonymous hospital data on how, when and where violence occurred with local police departments. When compared to cities who did not use this program, researchers found a 42% reduction in violence related hospital admissions.

And finally, from London - Prenatal syphilis screening may reduce stillbirths, according to a report published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases. Results of a meta analysis covering 10 studies and over 41,000 women found that prenatal syphilis screening reduced stillbirth incidence by 58%

Cancer Video: Sleep Loss Increases Obesity Gene Expression, Low Carb and High Protein Diet May Reduce Cancer Risk, FDA Issues New Sunscreen Labeling Rules

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EDT

(June 15, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Minnesota - Research presented at the Associated Professional Sleep Societies meeting finds that sleep loss may increase ones genetic risk of obesity. Studying nearly 2000 pairs of twins, researchers found that short sleep duration increased the expression of genes related to obesity, while longer sleep duration suppressed these genes.

From British Columbia - A low carbohydrate, high protein diet may reduce risk of cancer, according to a report published in Cancer Research. Scientists studied mice predisposed to breast cancer, finding that 70% of rodents who ate a Western diet died from cancer while only 30% of those on a low carb/high protein diet developed the disease.

And finally, from Washington - The FDA is installing new rules regarding sunscreen labelling. The new guidelines maintain that the terms 'waterproof', 'sweatproof' or 'sunblock' are impossible to claim and will be banned. As well, sunscreens that are proven to block both UVA and UVB radiation will be labeled 'broad spectrum', and any sunscreen with a SPF between 2 and 14 will now come with a warning label.

Heart Disease Video: Too Much TV Raises Risk of Heart Disease, Diabetes and Death, Sleep Loss May Be Connected to ADHD, How Secondhand Smoke Influences Preteens

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(June 14, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From California - A new report presented at the meeting for the Associated Professional Sleep Societies finds that children who lose sleep may be more likely to develop ADHD. Researchers studied nearly 7000 children, finding that those who reported sleeping less at a preschool age were more hyperactive and less attentive than their peers at a kindergarten age.

And finally, from Montreal - Preteens exposed to secondhand smoke are more likely to get hooked on nicotine and smoke themselves in adolescence, according to a report published in Nicotine and Tobacco Research. Studying 327 sixth and seventh graders, researchers found that increased second hand smoke exposure resulted in symptoms of nicotine dependence in the preteens, as well as the likelihood that the children would smoke in adolescence.

Lucentis Video: Reducing Blindness from AMD with Lucentis, Homeless at Much Greater Risk of Death, Early Exposure to Pets Reduces Risk of Allergy in Children

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(June 13, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Denmark - Homeless men and women have significantly higher mortality rates than the general population, according to a report published in the Lancet. Researchers studied over 32 000 homeless people, finding that approximately 60% suffer from a psychiatric disorder and that the homeless had 6x higher mortality rates than the general population.

And finally, from Detroit - Children who are exposed to pets early are at reduced risk of pet allergies, according to a report published in Clinical and Experimental Allergy. Studying over 500 individuals, researchers found that boys who lived with a dog before 12 months old had a roughly 50% reduced risk of developing a dog allergy, and boys and girls living with a cat before 12 months had 48% reduced risk of a cat allergy.

Parkinson's May Raise Risk of Skin Cancer, Obesity Linked to Declining Testosterone Levels, Childhood Bully May Grow Up to Commit Intimate Partner Violence (Week in Review)

Sun, 12 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(June 12, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From North Carolina - Parkinson's disease patients may have increased risk of melanoma, according to a report published in Neurology. Results of a meta analysis covering over 12 studies found that men with Parkinson's were at twofold increased risk of developing melanoma when compared to men without the neurological disease.

From Boston - A new report presented at the Endocrine Society's annual meeting finds that aging itself does not cause men to lose testosterone levels. Studying over 300 men, researchers found that deteriorating general health, in particular obesity, resulted in a decline of testosterone levels but aging had no effect.

And finally, from Boston - Childhood bullies may be more likely to commit intimate partner violence, according to a report published in the Archives of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine. Studying nearly 1500 men, researchers found a link between those who bullied peers in childhood and those who committed violence against a partner in adulthood.

PET Scanning Reveals How Marijuana Affects Brain, Wrinkles Linked to Fracture Risk in Women, Childhood Cancer Survivors More Likely to Have Tumors As Adults (Week in Review)

Sat, 11 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(June 11, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Texas - Imaging research presented at the Society of Nuclear Medicine's annual meeting demonstrates how marijuana use affects brain chemistry. In a study of 30 chronic cannabis smokers, PET scanning revealed that heavy marijuana use decreased the amount of cannabinoid CB1 receptors in the brain--receptors that affect pleasure, appetite as well other psychological functions.

From Boston- Wrinkles may predict risk of bone fracture in women, according to a report presented at the Endocrine Society Meeting. Studying over 100 early menopausal women, researchers found that those who had deepening and worsening wrinkles in their skin were also more likely to have lower bone density.

And finally, from the UK - Childhood cancer survivors are at raised risk of tumours in adulthood, according to a report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Researchers studied nearly 18,000 childhood cancer patients, finding that survivors were at 4x increased risk of developing another primary tumour later in life.

Mothers Taking B Vitamins May Cut Colorectal Cancer Risk in Kids, Post Pandemic Flu Vaccinations Increasing, Possible Urine Test for Gastrointestinal Cancers (Video)

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 17:30:00 EDT

(June 10, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Boston - Mothers with elevated B vitamins in their diet may reduce risk of colorectal cancer in their children, according to a report published in Gut. Researchers found that mice born to mothers who were given a diet supplemented with B vitamins were much less likely to develop colorectal cancer.

From Atlanta - Research published in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report finds an increase in post-pandemic flu vaccinations. 43% of the US population age 6 months or older got the seasonal flu shot in 2010-2011, a slight increase from 2009-2010--the year of the H1N1 pandemic.

And finally, from Scotland - A simple urine test may enable detection of many cancers, according to a report published in Proteomics-Clinical Applications. Comparing urine samples of healthy patients to those with gastrointestinal cancer, researchers singled out 6 proteins that were present in 98% of gastrointestinal cancer urine samples and absent in nearly 90% of cancer-free samples.

Heart Attack Video: Significant Decline in Heart Attacks Over Past 20 Years, Study Discovers How Smoking Suppresses Appetite, Exercise May Reduce Stroke Risk in Elderly

Thu, 9 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EDT

(June 9, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From London - Research published in the European Heart Journal finds a significant decline in heart attacks over the past 20 years. Studying nearly 10,000 individuals for 2 decades, researchers found that improved control of blood pressure and a decline in smoking resulted in a 74% reduction in heart attack risk. A rise in BMI over the same time period kept the decline from being even greater.

From Connecticut - A new report published in Science identifies how smoking suppresses appetite. Researchers found that nicotine activates neurons in the hypothalamus, telling the body that it has had enough food. This discovery has the potential to result in medication that will prevent quitting smokers from gaining weight.

And finally, from New York - Elderly people may be able to protect their brain with exercise, according to a report published in Neurology. Studying over 1200 elderly individuals, researchers found that those who took part in regular moderate to intense exercise had a 40% reduced risk of suffering a silent stroke

Colon Cancer Video: New Treatment May Be Near for Colon Cancer, Aging Does Not Directly Result in Drop in Testosterone, Childhood Cancers Raise Risk of Adult Cancers

Wed, 8 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EDT

(June 8, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Pennsylvania - A novel treatment for colon cancer may be on the horizon, according to a report published in Science Translational Medicine. Researchers found that the breast cancer drug lapatinib in combination with a cancer-fighting antibody can prevent colon cancer cells from spreading by shutting the cells down and effectively forcing them to die.

From Boston - A new report presented at the Endocrine Society's annual meeting finds that aging itself does not cause men to lose testosterone levels. Studying over 300 men, researchers found that deteriorating general health, in particular obesity, resulted in a decline of testosterone levels but aging had no effect.

And finally, from the UK - Childhood cancer survivors are at raised risk of tumours in adulthood, according to a report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Researchers studied nearly 18,000 childhood cancer patients, finding that survivors were at 4x increased risk of developing another primary tumour later in life.

Imaging Study Shows Marijuana's Effect on Brain, Apple Peels May Keep Muscles Strong, Childhood Bullies May Be Violent to Partners in Adulthood (Video)

Tue, 7 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(June 7, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Texas - Imaging research presented at the Society of Nuclear Medicine's annual meeting demonstrates how marijuana use affects brain chemistry. In a study of 30 chronic cannabis smokers, PET scanning revealed that heavy marijuana use decreased the amount of cannabinoid CB1 receptors in the brain--receptors that affect pleasure, appetite as well other psychological functions.

From Iowa - Apple peels may keep muscles from aging, according to a report published in Cell Metabolism. Researchers gave fasted mice ursolic acid--a natural compound found in apple peels--and found that the compound not only prevented muscle weakening but also helped the muscles grow.

And finally, from Boston - Childhood bullies may be more likely to commit intimate partner violence, according to a report published in the Archives of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine. Studying nearly 1500 men, researchers found a link between those who bullied peers in childhood and those who committed violence against a partner in adulthood.

Parkinson's Disease Video: Parkinson's Linked to Raised Melanoma Risk, Wrinkles May Indicate Low Bone Density, Yo Yo Dieting Healthier Than Remaining Obese

Mon, 6 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(June 6, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From North Carolina - Parkinson's disease patients may have increased risk of melanoma, according to a report published in Neurology. Results of a meta analysis covering over 12 studies found that men with Parkinson's were at twofold increased risk of developing melanoma when compared to men without the neurological disease.

From Boston- Wrinkles may predict risk of bone fracture in women, according to a report presented at the Endocrine Society Meeting. Studying over 100 early menopausal women, researchers found that those who had deepening and worsening wrinkles in their skin were also more likely to have lower bone density.

And finally, from Boston - A new report presented at the Endocrine Society Meeting finds that yo-yo dieting is much healthier than remaining obese. Researchers studied two groups of mice, one that alternated every four weeks between a high fat and low fat diet and another that only ate a high fat diet. Results showed that the yo-yo dieting rodents lived 25% longer and had better blood sugar levels than mice that remained obese.

Scientists Identify New MRSA Strain, Clot Busting Drugs Being Used More, WHO Report Calls For Further Investigation Into Cell Phone's Association with Cancer (Week in Review)

Sun, 5 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(June 5, 2011 - Insidermedicine)
From Cambridge - Scientists have discovered a new strain of MRSA, according to a report published in the Lancet Infectious Diseases. A group of researchers investigating mastitis identified the new strain in milk from dairy cows. This new strain is markedly different, meaning that current gold standard MRSA tests are unable to identify the infection.

From Cincinnati - A new report published in Stroke finds that clot busting drugs to treat stroke are being used more often. Researchers found that use of thrombolytic drugs in stroke patients increased from 1.4% in 2005 to 3.7% in 2009.

And finally, from Geneva - A new report released by the WHO defines cell phones as possibly carcinogenic. While previous studies regarding the association between cell phones and brain tumours have proven inconclusive, the WHO nonetheless maintains that cell phone use can possibly raise risk of glioma and its true effects need to be investigated further.

WHO Predicts 8 Million A Year Smoking Deaths by 2030, Fear of Dying During Heart Attack Increases Damage, Gestational Diabetes Predicted by Certain Factors (Week in Review)

Sat, 4 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(June 4, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Geneva - Smoking could kill up to 8 million people a year in 2030, according to a new report released by the WHO. Researchers found that smoking will kill 6 million people in 2011, 600,000 of whom will be non-smokers. Since the health effects of smoking take years to develop, the researchers argue that the tobacco-related disease epidemic is just beginning, with the death toll possibly reaching 8 million annually in 2030.

From London - Fear of dying that pervades during a heart attack may make matters worse, according to a report published in the European Heart Journal. Researchers studied over 200 heart attack patients, finding that those who experienced intense fear of dying during their heart attack had 4x increased risk of demonstrating elevated inflammation during and after the event.

And finally, from California - It may be possible to predict gestational diabetes using a woman's cardiometabolic profile, according to research published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Studying over 22, 000 women, researchers found that those who had a pre-pregnancy BMI of 25 or greater and a glucose level of 100-140 mg/dL had a 5x increased risk of developing gestational diabetes.

MRSA Video: C-Reactive Protein Levels May Predict Survival in Breast Cancer Patients, New Strain of MRSA Discovered in Cows, High Fat Diet May Raise Risk of Stillbirth

Fri, 3 Jun 2011 18:30:00 EDT

(June 3, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Denmark - C-reactive protein levels may be used to predict breast cancer survival, according to a report published in Breast Cancer Research. Studying over 2000 breast cancer patients for up to 7 years, researchers found that increasing c reactive protein levels were associated with poorer survival rates.

From Cambridge - Scientists have discovered a new strain of MRSA, according to a report published in the Lancet Infectious Diseases. A group of researchers investigating mastitis identified the new strain in milk from dairy cows. This new strain is markedly different, meaning that current gold standard MRSA tests are unable to identify the infection.

And finally, from Oregon - Pregnant women on a high fat diet are at increased risk of stillbirth, according to a report published in Endocrinology. Results of an animal study found that a diet consisting of 32% fat while pregnant decreased blood flow to the mothers placenta, thereby raising risk of stillbirth.

Leukemia Video: Scientists Able to Stop Leukemia Stem Cells From Returning, Increase in Clot Busting Drugs for Stroke, Sleep Apnea Patients Aided by Low Energy Diet

Thu, 2 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(June 2, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From London - Treatment to prevent leukaemia from returning may be on the horizon, according to a report published in Cell Stem Cell. Studying mice, researchers found that they could destroy leukaemic stem cells by suppressing two proteins found in the body. This discovery may pave the way for treatment enabling complete remission of the disease.

From Cincinnati - A new report published in Stroke finds that clot busting drugs to treat stroke are being used more often. Researchers found that use of thrombolytic drugs in stroke patients increased from 1.4% in 2005 to 3.7% in 2009.

And finally, from Sweden - Sleep apnea patients can benefit from a low-energy diet, according to a report published in the British Medical Journal. Studying over 60 men suffering from sleep apnea, researchers found that a low energy diet helped the patients lose weight in a healthy way and, one year later, nearly half no longer required their CPAP at night.

Heart Attack Video: Fear of Dying During A Heart Attack May Make it Worse, Mother's Size, Placenta Shape Linked to Heart Disease Risk in Men, Cell Phones' Link to Cancer Questioned

Wed, 1 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EDT

(June 1, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From London - Fear of dying that pervades during a heart attack may make matters worse, according to a report published in the European Heart Journal. Researchers studied over 200 heart attack patients, finding that those who experienced intense fear of dying during their heart attack had 4x increased risk of demonstrating elevated inflammation during and after the event.

From the UK - Size and shape of their mother's body and placenta may predict heart disease in men, according to a research published in the European Heart Journal. Studying nearly 7000 men whose placental size was measured at birth, researchers found that an oval shaped placental surface in short mothers, a small surface in tall overweight mothers, and a large placental weight in tall mothers with a BMI below 26 all were found to increase risk of heart disease in the men later in life.

And finally, from Geneva - A new report released by the WHO defines cell phones as possibly carcinogenic. While previous studies regarding the association between cell phones and brain tumours have proven inconclusive, the WHO nonetheless maintains that cell phone use can possibly raise risk of glioma and its true effects need to be investigated further.

Smoking Could Claim 8,000,000 Lives A Year By 2030, Flu Vaccination During Pregnancy May Lower Preterm Risk, Nighttime Organ Transplants Do Not Affect Survival

Tue, 31 May 2011 17:15:00 EDT

(May 31, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Geneva - Smoking could kill up to 8 million people a year in 2030, according to a new report released by the WHO. Researchers found that smoking will kill 6 million people in 2011, 600,000 of whom will be non-smokers. Since the health effects of smoking take years to develop, the researchers argue that the tobacco-related disease epidemic is just beginning, with the death toll possibly reaching 8 million annually in 2030.

From Atlanta - Being immunized against the flu during pregnancy may lower risk of premature birth, according to a report published in PLoS Medicine. Studying over 4100 mother-baby pairs, researchers found that babies of mothers who received a flu vaccination during pregnancy were less likely to be premature.

And finally, from Baltimore - Nighttime organ transplantations do not negatively impact one year survival, according to a report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Researchers studied over 27,000 patients undergoing organ transplantation, finding that those who underwent their procedure at nighttime did not have significantly different one year survival rates.

Multiple Sclerosis Video: Stress Not Linked to MS, RNA May Play Part in Development of Alzheimer's Disease, Predicting Gestational Diabetes Possible

Mon, 30 May 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(May 30, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Norway - Stress does not appear to increase risk of multiple sclerosis, according to a report published in Neurology. Researchers studied over 200,000 women for 15 years, finding no association between severe stress and development of MS.

From Italy - A new report published in the Journal of Cell Biology identifies a small RNA that may lead to Alzheimer's disease. Researchers identified an RNA called 38A that assists in gene regulation. They found that this RNA can spur production of an alternative form of a key neuronal protein, possibly leading to neurodegeneration and Alzheimer's disease.

And finally, from California - It may be possible to predict gestational diabetes using a woman's cardiometabolic profile, according to research published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Studying over 22, 000 women, researchers found that those who had a pre-pregnancy BMI of 25 or greater and a glucose level of 100-140 mg/dL had a 5x increased risk of developing gestational diabetes.

New Approach to Intracerebral Hemorrhage Treatment, Social Distancing Works to Slow Spread of Flu, 20% of Young Adults May Have High Blood Pressure (Week in Review)

Sun, 29 May 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(May 29, 2011 - Insidermedicine) From Germany - Research presented at the European Stroke Conference identifies a new stroke treatment that may reduce risk of death. Researchers tested a novel approach consisting of minimally invasive surgery and the drug t-PA on 60 patients suffering from intracerebral hemorrhage. After 6 months of follow up, researchers found that the treated patients had a lower mortality rate and also reported much higher quality of life than those treated with standard care

And finally, from North Carolina - Research published in Epidemiology finds that almost 20% of young adults have high blood pressure. Studying over 14,000 young adults between 24 and 32 years of age, researchers found that nearly 1 in 5 had high blood pressure

Women with Atrial Fibrillation At Raised Risk of Death, Swine Flu Travels and Diversifies, New Internal Cooking Temperature for Pork (Week in Review)

Sat, 28 May 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(May 28, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Boston - Research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association finds that women with atrial fibrillation are at raised risk of death. Studying over 34,000 women for approximately 15 years, researchers found that even among those who were otherwise healthy, an atrial fibrillation diagnosis raised risk of death nearly twofold.

From North Carolina - A new report published in Nature examines how swine flu has diversified over the last 30 years. Researchers studied over 30 years of data on swine flu viruses, finding that recent increases in the transportation of live pigs resulted in the virus moving over borders, mixing with local viruses and thereby diversifying over time.

And finally, from Washington - Pork can be cooked to a minimum temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenhiet, according to a report released from the USDA. The federal agency maintains that reducing the recommended internal temperature of pork from 160 to 145 degrees is microbiologically safe.

Novel Method May Improve Intracerebral Hemorrhage Survival, Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients Not Adequately Treated for Heart Disease, Safe Cooking Temperature for Pork (Video)

Fri, 27 May 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(May 27, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Germany - Research presented at the European Stroke Conference identifies a new stroke treatment that may reduce risk of death. Researchers tested a novel approach consisting of minimally invasive surgery and the drug t-PA on 60 patients suffering from intracerebral hemorrhage. After 6 months of follow up, researchers found that the treated patients had a lower mortality rate and also reported much higher quality of life than those treated with standard care.

From Denmark - RA patients who suffer a heart attack are frequently under-treated for heart disease, according to a report presented at the European League Against Rheumatism's Annual Congress. Studying nearly 100,000 MI patients, researchers found that those who had RA were 20% less likely to be prescribed standard heart attack treatments.

And finally, from Washington - Pork can be cooked to a minimum temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenhiet, according to a report released from the USDA. The federal agency maintains that reducing the recommended internal temperature of pork from 160 to 145 degrees is microbiologically safe.

COPD Video: Rheumatoid Arthritis Linked to COPD, Baked or Broiled Fish May Reduce Heart Failure Risk in Women, Most Young Adults Cannot Afford Health Care in US

Thu, 26 May 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(May 26, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Israel - Research presented at the European League Against Rheumatism Annual Congress confirms the connection between rheumatoid arthritis and COPD. Comparing nearly 16,000 RA patients to over 15,000 controls, researchers found that the RA patients were significantly more likely to also have COPD.

From Chicago - Women who eat baked or broiled fish are at significantly reduced risk of heart failure, according to research published in Circulation: Heart Failure. Researchers studied over 84,000 postmenopausal women for 10 years, finding that women who ate five or more servings of baked or broiled fish a week had 30% reduced risk of heart failure.

And finally, from New York - A new report released by the Commonwealth Fund finds that health reform is needed in the US for young adults. Results of a 2010 national survey revealed that nearly 50% of adults aged 19-29 could not afford the medical care they needed, a significant increase from 2001.

Blood Pressure Video: Polypill May Drastically Cut Risk of Heart Disease and Stroke, How Swine Flu Diversified Over Time, 20% of Young Adults Have High Blood Pressure

Wed, 25 May 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(May 25, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From the UK - A novel polypill may be able to cut risk of heart disease and stroke in half, according to a report published in PLoS One. An international trial found that a a blood pressure lowering polypill consisting of four medications was able to halve risk of cardiovascular disease in nearly 400 patients already at raised risk .

From North Carolina - A new report published in Nature examines how swine flu has diversified over the last 30 years. Researchers studied over 30 years of data on swine flu viruses, finding that recent increases in the transportation of live pigs resulted in the virus moving over borders, mixing with local viruses and thereby diversifying over time.

And finally, from North Carolina - Research published in Epidemiology finds that almost 20% of young adults have high blood pressure. Studying over 14,000 young adults between 24 and 32 years of age, researchers found that nearly 1 in 5 had high blood pressure

Atrial Fibrillation Video: Women with Atrial Fibrillation at Raised Risk of Death, Closing Schools Slowed H1N1 Transmission, Increasing Calcium Intake Does Not Reduce Risk of Fracture

Tue, 24 May 2011 18:30:00 EDT

(May 24, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Arizona - Social distancing can help slow flu transmission, according to a report published in PLoS Medicine. Researchers studied the 2009 H1N1 outbreak in Mexico City, finding that social distancing efforts such as closing schools and cancelling public gatherings reduced flu transmission rates by up to 37%.

And finally, from Sweden - Increasing calcium intake does not reduce risk of fractures later in life, according to a report published in the British Medical Journal. Results of a long term study following over 61,000 women found that while low levels of calcium did raise risk of fracture, taking more than 750 mg a day did not decrease risk

HAART Availability Greatly Reduces HIV Deaths in China, Obese Patients At Risk of Surgical Site Infections, Teens May Heed Anti-Smoking Advice from Doctors (Week in Review)

Sun, 22 May 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(May 22, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From China - Increased access to antiretroviral drugs in China has significantly decreased HIV-related deaths, according to a report published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases. Researchers found that a program that made highly active antiretrovial therapy (HAART ) more available increased the amount of Chinese HIV patients receiving the treatment from nearly zero to 63%. This increase in treatment was associated with a 60% decrease in HIV related deaths.

From Baltimore - Obese patients are at raised risk of surgical site infections, according to a report published in the Archives of Surgery. Studying over 7000 patients undergoing colon surgery, researchers found that those who were obese had 60% increased risk of developing a surgical site infection when compared to those who were normal weight.

And finally, from Washington - Doctors anti-smoking advice may resonate well with teens, according to a report published in Pediatrics. Studying over 5100 teenagers, researchers found that those who smoked and received advice from a doctor had healthier attitudes regarding smoking and were less likely to want to smoke 5 years later.

Coffee Linked To Reduced Risk of Deadly Prostate Cancer, Early Onset Alzheimer's Patients Frequently Misdiagnosed, Examining Young Reckless Drivers (Week in Review)

Sat, 21 May 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(May 21, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Boston - Coffee may reduce risk of deadly prostate cancer, according to a report published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. Studying nearly 40,000 men for over 20 years, researchers found that men who drank at least six cups of coffee a day had nearly 20% reduced risk of developing any prostate cancer, and 60% reduced risk of developing deadly prostate cancer.

From Spain - Many younger individuals with Alzheimer's disease are misdiagnosed, according to a report published in Neurology. Researchers examined the cases of 40 deceased Alzheimer's patients, finding that a majority of those who presented with early onset Alzheimer's disease to their doctor were misdiagnosed with other brain disorders because they did not have symptoms of memory loss.

And finally, from Australia - Research published in Injury Prevention finds that reckless young drivers are at increased risk of mental health problems. Researchers surveyed nearly 800 young drivers, finding that psychological distress caused in part by anxiety and depression accounted for nearly 9% of their risky driving behavior

Gene Variation Connected to Female Infertility, Some Alzheimer's Disease Patients Have No Memory Loss Symptoms, Great Improvements in Hypertension Control in Canada (Video)

Fri, 20 May 2011 17:00:00 EDT

(May 20, 2011 - Insidermedicine)

From Baltimore - Research published in Human Reproduction identifies a gene variation that may be connected to female infertility. Studying samples collected from nearly 300 infertile women, researchers found a genetic variation in some of the women that affected their progesterone levels thereby making it difficult to become pregnant

From Spain - Many younger individuals with Alzheimer's disease are misdiagnosed, according to a report published in Neurology. Researchers examined the cases of 40 deceased Alzheimer's patients, finding that a majority of those who presented with early onset Alzheimer's disease to their doctor were misdiagnosed with other brain disorders because they did not have symptoms of memory loss.

And finally, from Calgary - Research published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal finds significant improvements in high blood pressure control in Canada. Comparing national surveys taken in 1992 and 2009, researchers found that much less Canadians are now hypertensive and that those who currently have hypertension are more likely to have the condition under control