Health (General) – Monthly Newsletter January 2011

Work on inequalities to get rid of AIDS: UN

NEW DELHI – Removing deep rooted inequities in gender, economic status and education – from which millions of AIDS and HIV positive women and children suffer – is crucial to universal access to knowledge, protection and prevention of mother-to-child transmission, a UN report said.

Dec 1 is observed as World AIDS Day.
“Children and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Work on inequalities to get rid of AIDS: UN.

First baby boy conceived with IVF alternative

LONDON – A couple revealed that they were the first to conceive with an IVF alternative dubbed the ‘fertility sat nav’.

Marie and Mirco Martinelli believed they would never be able to have children after suffering three miscarriages in just two years.
They signed up for IVF but were told there was a two-year waiting …. Source article  : First baby boy conceived with IVF alternative.

Acupuncture no placebo, does relieve pain

LONDON – Scans show that sticking needles into a body calms brain cells that process and perceive pain.

The finding will vindicate those who have spent hundreds of pounds on acupuncture for bad backs, sprained ankles and other aches and pains.
The research team from the University Hospital in Essen, Germany, studied whether acupuncture …. Source article  : Acupuncture no placebo, does relieve pain.

Thousands run for AIDS awareness in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Thousands of school children, NCC cadets and others ran in this Jharkhand capital Wednesday to raise awareness on AIDS, which NGOs claim has infected over 20,000 people in the state.

‘Run for World AIDS Day’, organised by the Jharkhand AIDS Control Society (JACS), began at the Albert Ekka roundabout and concluded at the … Read more >>>.

This AIDS day, talk of universal access and human rights (Dec 1 is World AIDS Day)

NEW DELHI – With ‘universal access and human rights’ the theme for World AIDS Day this year, the focus of the Indian government is on increasing diagnosis and treatment facility.

“Increasing the reach of diagnosis and treatment facility to the affected is on the fore of the policy,” said an official of …. Source article  : This AIDS day, talk of universal access and human rights (Dec 1 is World AIDS Day).

Housewives now AIDS’ worst victims in Nepal

KATHMANDU – Though hailed by the UN Wednesday – observed as World AIDS Day – as one of nearly three dozen countries to achieve a significant decline in new HIV infection rates, Nepal however is now witnessing a new alarming trend with housewives accounting for nearly half of the fresh infections.

The rocketing number of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Housewives now AIDS’ worst victims in Nepal.

The Untouchables: Children living with HIV, AIDS in Manipur (Dec 1 is World AIDS Day)

IMPHAL – Growing up in a conflict zone, children living with HIV in the northeastern state of Manipur are deprived of more than their childhood.

Eleven-year-old Tina, who is HIV-positive, contracted measles and had to be taken to the far-off Imphal General Hospital. After initial treatment and medication was administered, the doctors referred her to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : The Untouchables: Children living with HIV, AIDS in Manipur (Dec 1 is World AIDS Day).

K. Chandramouli is new health secretary

NEW DELHI – K. Chandramouli Wednesday took over as the secretary in the health and family welfare ministry.

A 1975 batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from Uttar Pradesh cadre, Chandramouli succeeds K. Sujatha Rao, who retired Tuesday.
He was working as secretary and director general of National AIDS Control Organisation before his appointment …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Black rice bran could reduce inflammation: Study

WASHINGTON – A new study has claimed that black rice, a little-known variety of the grain that is the staple food for one-third of the world’s population, may help soothe the inflammation involved in allergies, asthma and other diseases.

Mendel Friedman and colleagues at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Western Regional Research Center in Albany, California … Read more »»».

Depression cure with little side-effects found

TORONTO – Canadian neuroscientists have developed a protein peptide to cure deep depression with little side-effects.

In their study at the University of Toronto and the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) here, the neuroscientists found that coupling between two dopamine receptors – which control neurological processes in the central nervous system- was significantly … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Depression cure with little side-effects found.

Number of polio cases radically down: Azad

NEW DELHI – Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad Thursday said the new bivalent polio vaccines have brought down the number of polio cases to just 39, from 800 last year.

Speaking at a health summit organised by the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII), Azad said the vaccine which targets both type 1 and type 3 … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Number of polio cases radically down: Azad.

Finger length clue to risk of prostate cancer?

LONDON – A man’s risk of prostate cancer can be gauged by looking at his hands – those with index fingers longer than ring fingers are significantly less likely to develop the disease, according to a study.

It is thought that less exposure to the sex hormone testosterone in the womb results in a longer …. Source  : Finger length clue to risk of prostate cancer?.

Azad invites private sector in healthcare infra

NEW DELHI – Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad Thursday urged the private sector to participate in the health ministry’s project of building hospitals and medical colleges on land owned by the railways.

Over 400 sites (owned by railway ministry) have been identified and handed over to the health ministry. We will work with state …. Source article  : Azad invites private sector in healthcare infra.

Unicef teams up with West Bengal for total sanitation campaign

KOLKATA – With a view to improve sanitation and hygiene and safe water in West Bengal, the United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef) has joined hands with the West Bengal government to roll out a total sanitation campaign Dec 1-7 across the state.

With 35 million people defecating in the open and a substantial number of … Read more : Unicef teams up with West Bengal for total sanitation campaign.

How swallowing worms can heal ulcerative colitis

WASHINGTON – A man who swallowed worm eggs to relieve symptoms of ulcerative colitis has shed new light on how worms promote healing in the intestine.

The study also identifies potential targets for more conventional ways of treating colitis, an inflammatory bowel disease.

“The idea for treating colitis with worms is not new, but how … Read more >>>.

Douse that anger with spoonful of sugar

LONDON – High sugar levels seem to help control aggression and prevent loss of temper, so indicates a study.

Ohio State University researchers in the US compared the behaviour of sugar-starved volunteers with those who had been given a sweet drink, and concluded the latter were less inclined to snap.
Researchers believe the … Original article on : Douse that anger with spoonful of sugar.

Focus on states with low AIDS prevalence, high vulnerability: Azad (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – As World AIDS Day was observed Dec 1, Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad called for focusing, under the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP), on states with low prevalence of the infection but high vulnerability.

Speaking at the function to mark conclusion of the AIDS awareness train Red Ribbon Express, Azad said the … Read more : Focus on states with low AIDS prevalence, high vulnerability: Azad (Second Lead).

New pictorial warnings on tobacco products in effect

NEW DELHI – Tobacco products in the country must carry a new set of pictorial warnings depicting a cancer-stricken mouth from Dec 1, a notification by the ministry of health and family welfare said Wednesday.

Tobacco product retailers and distributors who fail to comply will face legal consequences with a fine and imprisonment under Section … Read more : New pictorial warnings on tobacco products in effect.

37 Bangladeshis died due to AIDS in 2010

DHAKA – Thirty-seven people died this year due to AIDS as the total number of HIV/AIDS cases in Bangladesh rose to over 2,000, the country’s health minister said Wednesday.

The number of AIDS cases rose to 2,088, compared to 1,745 in 2009, Health and Family Welfare Minister Ruhul Huq said at a programme organised in … Read more : 37 Bangladeshis died due to AIDS in 2010.

Thousands of men in UK shave off moustaches as Movember ends

LONDON – As the month of November ended, thousands of men in Britain were very ecstatic, reason being that they could finally cut off the moustaches they had been growing to bring awareness of prostate cancer.

The men had been growing their Mos, or moustaches to the uninitiated, from the start of November, turning the …. Original article  : Thousands of men in UK shave off moustaches as Movember ends.

Soyfoods protect against breast cancer, lower cholesterol

WASHINGTON – Including soyfoods in a balanced diet will protect against breast cancer, lower cholesterol, and support nutrient adequacy, say experts.

Soy and Women’s Health

A review of data has suggested that there is no increased risk of breast cancer linked to moderate soy consumption.

“Soy appears to be protective and is associated with a lower risk of … Read more »».

Symptoms of Huntington’s disease appear a decade before diagnosis

LONDON – A new Australian research has revealed that people with Huntington’s disease show symptoms more than a decade before they are likely to get a clinical diagnosis.

These early effects of the disease don’t affect day-to-day functioning, but will help drug developers evaluate treatments that target the early stages of the disease, reports New …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Healthy lifestyle ‘cuts risk of first stroke by 80pc’

WASHINGTON – Those who make healthy lifestyle choices- such as not smoking, eating a low-fat diet high in fruits and vegetables, drinking in moderation, exercising regularly and maintaining a normal body weight – can lower risk of first time stroke by 80 percent compared to those who don’t make such changes, according to revised American …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘US was urged to quash ‘foreign contractors hiring Afghan dancing boys’ scandal’

KABUL – WikiLeaks’ recently released secret cables have revealed that former Afghan Interior Minister Hanif Atmar was in panic over a scandal involving foreign contractors employed to train Afghan policemen who took drugs and paid for young “dancing boys” to entertain them in northern parts of the country, and begged the US embassy to stop …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘US was urged to quash ‘foreign contractors hiring Afghan dancing boys’ scandal’.

Artificial kidney made by Indian American awaits human trials

WASHINGTON – A coffee cup sized implantable artificial kidney being developed by a US researcher of Indian origin, is awaiting animal and human trials to bring affordable treatment to millions of kidney failure patients worldwide.

Shuvo Roy, working with a team of engineers, biologists and physicians at the University of California, San Francisco, to shrink …. Source  : Artificial kidney made by Indian American awaits human trials.

Mylanta a Johnson & Johnson Product on FDA Recall List

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — Another product has lined up from Johnson & Johnson affiliated products to be in the list of FDA recall 2010. Mylanta and AlternaGel liquid antacids has been recalled.
According to FDA the recall is done after a trace amount of alcohol was found in the product that was not mentioned in …. Source article  : Mylanta a Johnson & Johnson Product on FDA Recall List.

Women living near roads more likely to have premature birth

LONDON – Pregnant women who live near busy roads have a higher risk of delivering a premature baby compared to those residing in quieter areas, a study has pointed out.

Study author Takashi Yorifuji from Japan’s Okayama Graduate School of Medicine said air and noise pollution from the traffic could be blamed.
The Okayama team …. Read the original article  : Women living near roads more likely to have premature birth.

Binge drinking linked to coronary heart disease

LONDON – A new study has revealed that the pattern of drinking affects the relation of alcohol intake to coronary heart disease.

The study found that French drink more than the Northern Irish each week, as they drink daily, rather than more on less occasions, the French suffered from considerably less coronary heart disease than the … Read more >>.

Health impairment primarily due to bad lifestyle, not aging

WASHINGTON – Sports scientists have revealed that impairments to health and physical performance are not primarily a result of aging but of bad lifestyle habits and lack of exercise.

Sporty elderly people have a life expectancy that is almost 4 years higher and are often faster than younger athletes.

Dieter Leyk and his team analysed …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

World Disability Day Observed Today across the World

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes) — Today, 3rd December the whole world will be observing the World Disability Day. This day aims to promote and make people aware of the rights and dignities of persons with some kind of disability issues. This the day to lean and preach our duties towards the disabled persons and to …. Original article  : World Disability Day Observed Today across the World.

Carla Bruni to visit Safdarjung Hospital Monday

NEW DELHI – Taking her association with the cause of HIV-AIDS a step forward, French first lady Carla Bruni would visit Safdarjung Hospital here Monday.

“The French President’s wife would be visiting the hospital. We are holding a meeting with the French delegation and it’s difficult to tell about details of the plan right now,” … Original source on Gaea Times at : Carla Bruni to visit Safdarjung Hospital Monday.

Free Breast Cancer Screening Program in California Begins

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA (GaeaTimes.com) — The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) declared its breast cancer detection program enrollment starts today. In this program women aged 40 or above will be provided free breast cancer screening and diagnosis.
This noble program which is termed as Every Woman Counts program is specially for under-privileged women and women … Original source on Gaea Times at : Free Breast Cancer Screening Program in California Begins.

For Women: Expose to Sun Regularly to Live Longer

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — A recent study conducted a specialist in Sweden has claimed that women who expose themselves to sun regularly are likely to live longer.
The study was carried out by a leading cancer specialist, Hakan Olsson at the the oncology unit at Lund University in Sweden. It was conducted on 40,000 women …. Read the original article  : For Women: Expose to Sun Regularly to Live Longer.

FDA Panel Approves Obesity Surgery over Weight loss Pills

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — A 10-member panel of FDA (Food and Drug Administration ) has voted for the use of ‘Lap Band‘, a weight reducing device by the people having a BMI (body mass index) between 30 and 35. Lap Band, a product of Allergan Inc. of Irvine, Calif is approved by FDA which … Original source on Gaea Times at : FDA Panel Approves Obesity Surgery over Weight loss Pills.

Lethal Protein that Triggers Prostate Cancer Growth Discovered

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — A recent study by the U.S scientists has revealed the fact that a protein that turns healthy prostate cells into cancerous cells is discovered. This latest discovery may prove very useful in treatment of prostate cancer that has potential to claim the lives of as many as 35,000 men in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Lethal Protein that Triggers Prostate Cancer Growth Discovered.

China to have 1.2 mn HIV-affected people by 2015

BEIJING – China will have about 1.2 million people living with HIV/AIDS by 2015, says a government report.

China has over 740,000 HIV/AIDS patients in the mainland and sex is one of the major means of transmission of the disease.
The report, titled “Action Plan to Prevent and Control HIV/AIDS (2011-15)” and scheduled for formal … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : China to have 1.2 mn HIV-affected people by 2015.

Paralysed man creates ‘robotic trousers’ to help patients walk, climb stairs

LONDON – An Israeli entrepreneur who was left paralysed after a car crash, has now invented ‘robotic trousers’ that he claims would help paraplegics walk again.

Amit Goffer was paralysed in a car crash in 1997 and immediately set out to invent a device – ‘ReWalk’: robotic trousers that use sensors and motors to allow paralysed …. Source article  : Paralysed man creates ‘robotic trousers’ to help patients walk, climb stairs.

MCD to promote mosquito-proof coolers

NEW DELHI – The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) Friday asked the city residents to use special mosquito-proof coolers (MPC) to keep dengue and chikungunya at bay.

The civic body is planning to publish advertisements to make people aware about these coolers which are environment friendly. The coolers were developed by the National Centre for …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : MCD to promote mosquito-proof coolers.

Karnatata ITBT minister resigns

BANGALORE – The Karnataka Information Technology and Bio-technology Minister Katta Subramanya Naidu resigned a day after FIRs were filed against him, his son and eight others allegedly involved in a land scam.

He is alleged to have accepted Rs.67 crores as bribe to allocate 385 acres of land to ITASKA Software, a company set up by …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Robotic trousers to help paraplegics walk, climb stairs

LONDON – An Israeli entrepreneur, who was paralysed in a car crash over 10 years ago, has invented robotic trousers that can help paraplegics walk again.

After the accident in 1997, Amit Goffer immediately set out to invent a device that could replace the wheelchair.
He has invented ‘ReWalk’, robotic trousers that use sensors and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Robotic trousers to help paraplegics walk, climb stairs.

90,000 Bihar kids die in first month of birth

PATNA – About 90,000 children die in Bihar every year within the first month of their birth, state principal health secretary C.K. Mishra said here Sunday.

“Every year in Bihar, about 90,000 children die within the first month of life, that is, about 250 neonates dying every day. Most of these deaths can be prevented,” …. Read the original article  : 90,000 Bihar kids die in first month of birth.

UV radiation bouncing off eyes may cause skin cancer

SYDNEY – Ultraviolet radiation bouncing off eyes may be causing higher than average rates of skin cancer on the nose.

Benjamin Birt, who recently did his PhD at the Queensland University of Technology, Australia, found that high rates of skin cancer on the sides of the nose could be due to ultraviolet (UV) radiation …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

e-cigarettes are potentially harmful

WASHINGTON – Electronic or e-cigarettes, that vapourize nicotine, are being increasingly used all over the world even though information about their effects is very sketchy.

Researchers from University of California, Riverside, US, conclude that e-cigarettes are potentially harmful and have suggested their removal from the market until their safety is established.
They evaluated … Read more : e-cigarettes are potentially harmful.

9 in 10 Delhiites still need to be vaccinated against Hepatitis B Virus: Experts

NEW DELHI – Experts attending a Hepatitis B Awareness Camp” at the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) in Vasant Kunj, South Delhi, on Saturday said that nine out of every ten residents in New Delhi still need to be vaccinated against the Hepatitis B virus.

The event, which was organized jointly by the Delhi …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 9 in 10 Delhiites still need to be vaccinated against Hepatitis B Virus: Experts.

Shiela Dikshit unveils cancer treatment unit

NEW DELHI – Delhi Chief Minister Shiela Dixit Saturday unveiled a new cancer treatment facility at Indraprastha Apollo hospital here.

I am delighted to launch the Novalis Tx and the Bone Marrow Transplant Unit at Indraprastha Apollo today. Apollo Hospitals has done tremendous work in creating awareness about cancer. Its burden can be decreased significantly … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Shiela Dikshit unveils cancer treatment unit.

Drug Rituximab can delay the Onset of Chemotherapy in Cancer Patients

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes) — A recent survey by a team of scientists have found out that a drug called rituximab can delay the appearance of symptoms in patients suffering from follicular lymphoma. Follicular lymphoma is a type of slowly developing cancer of the lymphatic system which is incurable and according to the latest discovery … Original article on : Drug Rituximab can delay the Onset of Chemotherapy in Cancer Patients.

Marmite vitamin ‘could prevent heart problems’

LONDON – Experts have claimed that a vitamin found in Marmite has the potential to prevent heart diseases.

Scientists from Bristol University, who carried out the experiment in mice, also suggested that a derivative of vitamin B1, called benfotiamine, speeds up the healing of tissue following heart damage, reports the Daily Express.

The discovery could offer fresh … Read more »»».

Carla Bruni interacts with HIV patients at Delhi hospital

NEW DELHI – French First Lady Carla Bruni Monday interacted with counsellors and HIV positive patients at the Safdarjung Hospital and a home for HIV positive children here while her husband Nicolas Sarkozy held talks with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

Dressed in a formal navy blue suit and a blue scarf, the glamorous Bruni reached … Read more »»».

Hyperactive immune system kills adults during pandemic flu

WASHINGTON – A study suggests that people are made critically ill, or even killed, by their own immune response during H1N1 flu pandemic.

Fernando Polack, associate professor of paediatrics at the Vanderbilt University Medical Centre, and colleagues in Argentina and Nashville provide a possible explanation for this alarming phenomenon of pandemic flu, according to a …. Original source  : Hyperactive immune system kills adults during pandemic flu.

Painting exhibition to create AIDS awareness organised in Chennai

CHENNAI – A social group organised a painting exhibition titled ‘Art-AIDS’ to mobilise funds for the welfare of HIV patients in Chennai.

The funds raised by selling the paintings of artists would be utilised to help children affected with HIV /AIDS in India.

The exhibition was inaugurated by Tamil film actor Karthik along with eminent film director … Read more »»».

New drug shows promise in leukaemia

LONDON – A new drug for children who relapse with a type of leukaemia has been found to improve survival rates dramatically.

Called Mitoxantran, the drug has now been shown to increase three-year survival rates to almost 70 percent.
A study in 216 children, funded by Cancer Research UK and Leukaemia & Lymphoma …. Original source  : New drug shows promise in leukaemia.

Carla Bruni to visit Safdarjung Hospital to see anti-natal, HIV care procedure

NEW DELHI – France’s First Lady Carla Bruni will visit the Safdarjung Hospital and the New Delhi-based Naz Foundation Trust, an NGO working on HIV/AIDS and sexual health on Monday.

Most people around the world know Bruni as an Italian-born French songwriter, singer and former model, but few know that she is also the brand ambassador … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Carla Bruni to visit Safdarjung Hospital to see anti-natal, HIV care procedure.

Nurses continue hunger strike atop water tank

HYDERABAD – At least 10 nurses of a government-run hospital in Warangal Monday continued their indefinite hunger strike atop an overhead water tank to press their demands, including regularisation of services.

Braving the cold, the nurses stayed on the water tank for the third day at the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Hospital (MGM) in Warangal town, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Magnetic pulses can burn cancer cells

LONDON – Cancer can be ‘burned up’ with a new technique that uses magnetic pulses to heat tumour cells until they die.

Scientists have found they can surround cancer cells with tiny particles of iron-oxide that vibrate when in a magnetic field, causing the cells to heat up.
Tests on mice have shown … Read more : Magnetic pulses can burn cancer cells.

Quitting smoking improves your mood

LONDON – Many smokers reach for a cigarette to ease their anxiety during stressful periods. But US researchers have found that quitting smoking makes people happier, and the effect lasts for as long as they manage to kick the habit.

The team from Brown University and the University of Southern California said it showed quitting … Read : Quitting smoking improves your mood.

Electric shocks soften up cancer cells for treatment

LONDON – A device that ’softens up’ tumours with electric shocks before chemotherapy could transform cancer treatment.

It makes cancer cells porous so that more of the toxic drugs attack the tumour rather than healthy cells.
Initial results suggest the treatment reduces the amount of medicine needed and may prevent side effects such as nausea, …. Read the original article  : Electric shocks soften up cancer cells for treatment.

Marmite helps heart attack victims live longer

LONDON – Heart attack victims can now boost their chances of survival, thanks to a vitamin B1 derivative found in foods such as marmite.

Marmite is a type of thick, dark brown spread. The savory spread, with a strong and distinctive flavour, is made from a concentrated yeast sludge, a byproduct of the beer brewing … Original source on Gaea Times at : Marmite helps heart attack victims live longer.

Arthritis Patients Prone to Suffer from a Higher Risk of Heart Attack

KOLKATA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — A new research has highlighted the fact that patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis have 60% higher chance of heart attack only after one year of diagnosis.
The chance of a heart attack becomes severe within a few months to one year after the patient is diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. The …. Original article  : Arthritis Patients Prone to Suffer from a Higher Risk of Heart Attack.

New Video Games Promises to Cut Obesity Rate in Children

KOLKATA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — After a lot of speculation on video games leading to rise in the number of childhood obesity, a new study has shown that new video games are encouraging children to consume healthier foods such as fruits and vegetables. Rise of obese children in US is a major health concern in …. Read the original article  : New Video Games Promises to Cut Obesity Rate in Children.

Death due to Cancer can be Reduced using Aspirin

KOLKATA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — Aspirin, the common tablet that we take to relieve us from headache is found to reduce the death rates in cancer treatment. A very recent research has revealed the amazing truth about aspirin which confirms that prolonged use of aspirin on a daily basis can cut down the death rates …. Source  : Death due to Cancer can be Reduced using Aspirin.

People with psychotic disorders 12 times likelier to commit suicide

WASHINGTON – A psychiatrist has said that people with psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, are 12 times more likely to commit suicide than average.

The research found that the rate of suicide was highest in the first year following diagnosis (12 times national average) and that high risk persisted – remaining four times … Read : People with psychotic disorders 12 times likelier to commit suicide.

Indian American’s book among NYT’s 10 best of 2010

WASHINGTON – Just three weeks after publication, Indian American cancer specialist Siddhartha Mukherjee’s first book “The Emperor of All Maladies: A Biography of Cancer” has been rated among “The 10 Best Books of 2010″ by the New York Times.

The list featuring New Delhi-born Mukherjee’s book in the third place among five non-fiction books will … Original source on Gaea Times at : Indian American’s book among NYT’s 10 best of 2010.

Haiti cholera outbreak toll rises to 2,071

Port-au-PRINCE – The toll in the cholera epidemic which began in Haiti at the end of October has killed 2,071 people till date, officials have said.

Haiti’s health ministry said in a report Monday that around 91,770 people have been infected, of whom 43,243 were hospitalised and 41,806 were discharged after their conditions improved, Xinhua … Read more >>.

Women Beware of your Heart Risks

KOLKATA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — A recent survey in Northern Ireland has revealed the fact that almost 90% of women are unaware of the risks of heart diseases. Consequently they tend lose their lives from a heart disease that is preventable.
The study was conducted by the British Heart Foundation which showed that women just ignore … Original source on Gaea Times at : Women Beware of your Heart Risks.

NYPD-gay community mediator Kevin Czartoryski dies of lung ailment

NEW YORK – Kevin Czartoryski, a retired police detective, who acted as a mediator between the New York Police Department and the city’s gay community, has reportedly died from a lung ailment that he suffered following the 9/11 terror attacks.

The New York Post quoted Police Commissioner Ray Kelly as saying that Czartoryski “served with … Read more : NYPD-gay community mediator Kevin Czartoryski dies of lung ailment.

Longer Index Finger in Men Protects against Prostate Cancer

KOLKATA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — A recent study published in British Journal of Cancer showed that the size of the index finger in men can be used to determine the risk of occurrence of prostate cancer. Men with longer index finger under 60 are less likely to suffer from prostate cancer.
How the index finger in … Read more »»».

Keep Alzheimer’s at bay with purple fruit

LONDON – Eating blueberries and other purple fruit and vegetables can keep Alzheimer’s at bay because they are a rich source of chelators, scientists say.

Chelators bind the loosely configured iron molecules in the body and prevent them from producing dangerous toxins, called hydroxyl radicals, which trigger degenerative illnesses like Alzheimer’s.
Prof. Douglas …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Keep Alzheimer’s at bay with purple fruit.

New drug halts post-traumatic stress disorder

LONDON – Scientists have discovered a way to stop post-traumatic stress disorder (PSTD) in its tracks by injecting a calming drug into the brain.

Around 30 percent of people who experience a traumatic event will develop PSTD – a severe anxiety disorder that overwhelms a person’s ability to cope.
Symptoms can include vivid flashbacks, … Read more : New drug halts post-traumatic stress disorder.

Why does music chill and thrill some people?

WASHINGTON – Most people feel chills and shivers in response to music that thrills them, but some people hardly feel them at all.

People who are particularly open to new experiences are most likely to have chills in response to music, according to a new study.
Researchers Emily Nusbaum and Paul Silvia of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Why does music chill and thrill some people?.

Good grades lead to better health: Study

WASHINGTON – Good grades do make you teachers’ favorite whereas parents shower excessive love if you are their ‘A’ grader child. And now a new research has revealed that they also make students healthier adults.

Studies have long shown that education is linked to better health showed that higher academic performance in high school plays a …. Source article  : Good grades lead to better health: Study.

Vitamin supplements ‘reduce incidence of measles and diarrhoea’

WASHINGTON – A new research has strongly endorsed the continuation of vitamin A supplementation programmes, which reduce the incidence of measles and diarrhoea and ultimately save lives.

Most of the low and middle-income countries suffer from Vitamin A deficiency. People whose diets do not include enough of the vitamin may have impaired body functions, and be … Read : Vitamin supplements ‘reduce incidence of measles and diarrhoea’.

Eating blueberries, blackberries ‘ward off Alzheimer’s, heart problems’

LONDON – Consuming purple coloured fruit can keep age-related diseases such as Alzheimer’s, heart problems and cancer at bay, according to a new study.

The study, conducted by the University of Manchester, suggests that the odds of developing multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease may also be reduced by consuming blueberries, blackberries, blackcurrants or plums.

Researchers say one …. Read the original article  : Eating blueberries, blackberries ‘ward off Alzheimer’s, heart problems’.

US man’s tongue bitten off during kiss

MELBOURNE – A 79-year-old Wisconsin man had to go for a surgery overnight to have his tongue reattached after his wife bit it off during a kiss.

The victim called police and an ambulance and officers were sent to his home in Sheboygan, north of Milwaukee, despite having trouble understanding what he was saying, the Sheboygan … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US man’s tongue bitten off during kiss.

Second-hand smoke ups invasive meningococcal disease risk in kids

WASHINGTON – A new study has pointed out that children exposed to second-hand smoke are more likely to get invasive meningococcal disease than children who are not exposed.

Researcher Chien-Chang Lee and his colleagues at the Harvard School of Public Health also found a possible association of second-hand smoke exposure with invasive pneumococcal disease and Haemophilus …. Original article  : Second-hand smoke ups invasive meningococcal disease risk in kids.

Elizabeth Edwards succumbs to breast cancer at 61

LONDON – Elizabeth Edwards, the wife of former senator and vice presidential candidate John Edwards, has succumbed to breast cancer that she had been fighting for many years.

According to the Telegraph, the news of her death came just hours after the former lawyer and author wrote on her Facebook page that she had stopped …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Elizabeth Edwards succumbs to breast cancer at 61.

Parents have limited influence on children’s eating habits

WASHINGTON – If you thought you could influence your child’s eating habits, you are wrong – at least partially, for a new study claims that this influence is limited.

Researchers from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health reviewed and assessed the degree of association and similarity between children and their parents’ dietary intake based …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Parents have limited influence on children’s eating habits.

New ’score’ to predict heart disease in youngsters

LONDON – University of Nottingham researchers have developed a new ’score’, which could be useful for general practitioners (GP) to detect heart disease in youngsters – before it damages their health.

The researchers studied data of over two and half million people and then developed, validated and evaluated the new lifetime ’score’ which takes account, among … Read more : New ’score’ to predict heart disease in youngsters.

Majority of Singaporeans hit by mobile phone syndrome

Kuala Lumpur, Dc 09 (ANI): A Singaporean survey found that majority of people constantly think that their mobile phone is ringing – when it’s not.

Sin Chew Daily reported that a random survey of 50 people found that some 80 percent of them suffered from the mobile phone syndrome.

These folks would check their mobile phones incessantly …. Original source  : Majority of Singaporeans hit by mobile phone syndrome.

Rolls-Royce engine worries continue for Qantas’ A380 fleet

SYDNEY – Sydney-based Qantas Airways’ headaches over its A380 fleet have been compounded after a defect was found in an engine on one of its superjumbos, which is still on the factory floor in France.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the discovery of what is believed be a faulty oil tube in one of the …. Read the original article  : here.

Whey supplements ’significantly reduce blood pressure’

WASHINGTON – A Washington State University study has found that beverages supplemented by whey-based protein can significantly reduce elevated blood pressure, reducing the risk of stroke and heart disease.

Research led by nutritional biochemist Susan Fluegel found that daily doses of commonly available whey brought a more than six-point reduction in the average blood pressure of …. Source  : Whey supplements ’significantly reduce blood pressure’.

Azad asks ICMR to speed up research in Malaria and Cancer

NEW DELHI – Union Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad has urged the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) scientists to put special efforts on transnational programmes so that affordable diagnostic solutions can be made available to people.

Azad specifically asked scientists to speed up research on Malaria and Cancer, “as the country needs these technologies … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Azad asks ICMR to speed up research in Malaria and Cancer.

Irish Women have Higher Risk to Suffer from Breast Cancer

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — A new EC report has revealed that Irish women have the higher risk to suffer from breast cancer than the women in any other country in Europe. The report which was released yesterday showed that the death rate in Ireland is 31.1 per 100,000 women and this is almost [..] Read the original article: here.

Frequent sex makes neurotic newlyweds happy

WASHINGTON – People who are neurotic often find it hard to manage their relationships. But if neurotic newlyweds have frequent sex, their marital satisfaction is every bit as high as their less neurotic counterparts, a study says.

Neuroticism is the tendency to experience negative emotion. Such people get upset and irritated easily, have mood swings … Read more : Frequent sex makes neurotic newlyweds happy.

Till receipts contain high levels of ‘cancer chemical’: Study

LONDON – A new study has found that till receipts and paper money contain high levels of bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical associated with cancer and early puberty.

The chemical mimics the female hormone oestrogen and scientists have long suggested it poses a risk to health – especially to young children.

In the latest research, a team … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Till receipts contain high levels of ‘cancer chemical’: Study.

Poor education ‘leads to heart failure’

WASHINGTON – Poorly educated people are more likely to be admitted to hospital with chronic heart failure than the better educated, even after differences in lifestyle have been taken into account, results from a large European study have suggested.

Researchers followed 18,616 people for as long as 31 years (range 0-31 years, average follow-up was 21 … Read more >>>.

Don’t block affordable Indian medicines, EU urged

BRUSSELS – As leaders from India and the European Union (EU) meet for a bilateral summit in the Belgian capital, health activists Friday urged the 27-nation bloc not to prevent access to affordable Indian medicines.

In a statement before the 11th India-EU summit opened, Mdecins Sans Frontires (MSF) – a global NGO that provides emergency …. Read the original article  : Don’t block affordable Indian medicines, EU urged.

Sex advice on mobiles for teens causes uproar

WASHINGTON – Under a controversial National Health Service (NHS) scheme, children as young as 13 are being sent sex advice by text message.

They are being encouraged to send in questions about losing their virginity, where to get the morning-after pill and how to get tested for infections.

Within minutes they receive a detailed reply from a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Sex advice on mobiles for teens causes uproar.

Estrogen alone can cut risk of breast cancer

WASHINGTON – A new study has suggested that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) utilizing estrogen alone helps in reducing breast cancer risk.

“Our analysis suggests that, contrary to previous thinking, there is substantial value in bringing HRT with estrogen alone to the guidelines. The data show that for selected women it is not only safe, but potentially …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Just one puff of cigarette is enough to trigger a heart attack!

LONDON – Think a single puff won’t harm you? Well, you may be wrong, as smoking even one cigarette is sufficient to block your arteries and trigger a heart attack, warns scientist.

The 700-page the US Surgeon General’s report has found there was no safe level of exposure to cigarette smoke-whether you deliberately inhale or breathe …. Source  : Just one puff of cigarette is enough to trigger a heart attack!.

Obama said ‘yes, we can’ – and quit smoking

WASHINGTON – Barack Obama became US president on a campaign of “yes, we can” but he has struggled hard for three decades to stop smoking. Now, going by his press secretary’s word, he may have finally kicked the habit.

“I have not seen or witnessed evidence of any smoking in probably nine months,” Robert …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

1 in 3 Brits believe cancer is down to fate

LONDON – A new UK research has found that more than a third believe cancer is down to fate and there is nothing they can do to avoid it.

Cancer Research UK stated that one in five men and women feared cancer ahead of debt, knife crime, Alzheimer’s disease and losing their job whereas 34 percent … Original source on Gaea Times at : 1 in 3 Brits believe cancer is down to fate.

Kerala math announces relief package for pesticide victims

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Amritananda Mayi Math, the organisation of “hugging saint” Amritananda Mayi, Thursday announced a relief and rehabilitation package for the endosulphan pesticide victims in more than 250 families in Kerala’s Kasargode district.

Addressing the media here, the math’s second in command, Swami Amritaswaroopananda said that they would require the support of the state government …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Heart Disease in Teenagers can be predicted Now

KOLKATA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — A new study has revealed anew score to determine risk of heart diseases in teenagers. This could prove very effective for the GP (general practioners) to predict the heart health of youngsters.
The study is carried out in University of Nottingham. This new score has the potential to identify younger people … Read more >>>.

Obesity Rate Found Higher in Europe

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — A recent study by the European Commission and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) stressed the fact that almost 50 percent of adults living in Europe and Britain suffer from obesity and are overweight.
It may be surprising but true that UK is filled with the highest number of …. Source article  : Obesity Rate Found Higher in Europe.

HIV-positive porn star calls for compulsory condom use in films

LONDON – Adult film star Derrick Burts, who tested positive for HIV, is calling for mandatory condom use in the industry.

The 24-year-old performer, who is known as Derek Chambers in gay films and Cameron Reid in straight films, admitted that he was the unnamed actor …. Original source  : HIV-positive porn star calls for compulsory condom use in films.

Intel helping healthcare reach rural Karnataka

BANGALORE – Global chip maker Intel has initiated a joint telemedicine programme to take benefits of healthcare to rural Karnataka in association with the state government, a senior company official said Friday.

“We have provided IT infrastructure and offsite technical resources at the Angodu primary healthcare centre and Harihara taluk hospital in Davangere district to … Read more >>.

Elderly man gets Asia’s first biosoluble stent

NEW DELHI – Asia’s first biosoluble stent has been successfully implanted in a 65-year-old man for treating his artery blockage, doctors said here Friday.

M.P. Singh, a native of Bihar, was the first patient to undergo the procedure Tuesday.
The surgery at the Escorts Heart Institute was part of the trials being conducted …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

New guidelines to aid food allergies diagnosis released

WASHINGTON – Food allergies are one of the biggest challenges today. But they are often hard for doctors to diagnose, and are even harder for parents to manage.

That is why a new standard for evaluating and treating food allergies is being developed by the US National Institute of Health.

The new guidelines are directed at …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : New guidelines to aid food allergies diagnosis released.

Elderly man gets Asia’s first biodegradable stent

NEW DELHI – Asia’s first biodegradable stent has been successfully implanted in a 65-year-old man for treating his artery blockage, doctors said here Friday.

M.P. Singh, a native of Bihar, was the first patient to undergo the surgery Tuesday.
The surgery at the Escorts Heart Institute was a part of the trials going …. Source  : Elderly man gets Asia’s first biodegradable stent.

Every year, 30M Americans drive drunk on average

WASHINGTON – 30 million Americans drive drunk, while 10 million drive under the influence of drugs over the course of an average year, reveal a new survey.

The study by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) … Original article on : Every year, 30M Americans drive drunk on average.

Cholera strain sheds light on new mechanism causing disease

WASHINGTON – A fresh study has found new clinical strains of cholera, which appear to have evolved a distinctly different mechanism to cause the same disease.

Vibrio cholerae is the causative agent for the diarrheal disease cholera.

While there are more than 200 different serogroups only the O1 and the O139 strains have been known to …. Original article  : Cholera strain sheds light on new mechanism causing disease.

Extra cup of coffee can double stroke risk

LONDON – Drinking an extra cup or two of coffee can double stroke risk for light coffee drinkers, says a new study.

Light coffee drinkers – who drink coffee just once or twice a day – are twice as likely to suffer a brain blood clot if they have an extra cup or two, the … Read more »»».

Spoonful of honey boosts energy

LONDON – Ancient Greek athletes consumed honey to boost their energy and performance levels during Olympics events as it contains glucose and fructose, known to produce tremendous reserves of glycogen in the liver.

Having a spoonful of unprocessed honey before bed can support your brain function. The fructose is stored as energy reserves in the … Read : Spoonful of honey boosts energy.

Increasing coffee intake ‘doubles stroke risk’

LONDON – A new study has revealed that drinking more coffee than usual could double your risk of a stroke.

Experts at Harvard Medical School in Boston found that light coffee drinkers who normally have no more than one a day are twice as likely to suffer a blood clot on the brain if they increase … Read more >>.

Younger gay men willing to take sexual risks: Oz HIV study

MELBOURNE – A new Oz study of HIV transmission has revealed that younger gay men are taking sexual risks frequently and becoming infected with the virus at an early stage.

As compared with older men who have sex with men (MSM), those aged under 35 have been found to be more likely to have never previously … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Younger gay men willing to take sexual risks: Oz HIV study.

KFC’s $500 gift cards spark outrage as Australia battles obesity crisis

MELBOURNE – KFC has outraged health experts in Queensland by offering Christmas gift cards worth up to 500 dollars.

The fast-food giant’s outlets have been promoting the cards, ranging in value from 10 to 500 dollars and to be used within 12 months, as a “thoughtful gift idea for any occasion”.

A 500 dollars card could purchase …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : KFC’s $500 gift cards spark outrage as Australia battles obesity crisis.

How to slay ‘the emperor’? Ask Indian American cancer specialist

WASHINGTON – Indian American cancer specialist Siddhartha Mukherjee, whose very first book has become a runaway success, advocates a strong anti-smoking campaign and breast cancer screening to battle the growing incidence of the disease in India.

Less than a month after publication, Mukherjee’s book, “The Emperor of All Maladies: A Biography of Cancer”, on the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : How to slay ‘the emperor’? Ask Indian American cancer specialist.

A Canadian yoga teacher traces her Indian roots

NEW DELHI – Shobha Rae had two missions when she came to India from Canada – complete a yoga teachers’ training course and seek out her relatives for whom she had launched a search four years ago.

For Shobha, freedom of information (equivalent to right to information) administrator for Vancouver city, her first trip to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : A Canadian yoga teacher traces her Indian roots.

Obama describes Holbrooke as ‘towering figure’, prays for him

WASHINGTON – U.S. President Barack Obama on Saturday described his Special Envoy to Pakistan and Afghanistan, Richard C. Holbrooke, as “a towering figure in American foreign policy” and said that he was praying for his recovery from aortic surgery.

In statement issued on Saturday night, President Obama said he had spoken with Holbrooke’s wife and told … Read more »»».

Pakistan praying for Holbrooke’s recovery: Qureshi

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan on Saturday described U.S.President Barack Obama’s Special Envoy to Pakistan and Afghanistan, Richard C. Holbrooke as a great friend of the country, and hoped that he would recover soon from aortic surgery.

In statement issued on behalf of the Pakistan Government and the Pakistan Foreign Office, Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi said: …. Read the original article  : here.

Key Obama aide Holbrooke critical after aorta surgery

Washington, Dec.11. (ANI): U.S.President Barack Obama’s Special Envoy for Pakistan and Afghanistan, Richard C. Holbrooke, was said to be in critical condition on Saturday after undergoing aortic surgery at the George Washington University Hospital here.

A medical bulletin issued by hospital staff said that doctors had performed … Read more >>.

Breast cancer among pregnant women on rise

LONDON – Breast cancer rates among pregnant women are on the rise, warns an expert.

The diagnosis of the disease in expectant mothers leads to a terrible dilemma as the treatment can be devastating for the unborn child.
The chances of birth defects in children were higher amongst breast cancer patients regardless of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Breast cancer among pregnant women on rise.

Karunakaran’s condition worsens: Doctors (Lead, superseding previous story)

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The condition of former Kerala chief minister K. Karunakaran, who has been hospitalised for the past few days, has “worsened”, a medical bulletin said Monday.

He has breathlessness and his blood count is low. His kidneys are also not functioning properly, a doctor said.
Karunakaran was admitted to a private hospital here following …. Source  : Karunakaran’s condition worsens: Doctors (Lead, superseding previous story).

Karunakaran’s condition fails to improve: Doctors

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The condition of former Kerala chief minister K. Karunakaran, who has been hospitalised for the past few months, has not improved, a doctor attending on him said Monday.

He has breathlessness and his blood count is low, the doctor said.
Karunakaran, 92, was admitted to the hospital following fever. The doctors are contemplating … Original source on Gaea Times at : Karunakaran’s condition fails to improve: Doctors.

‘Dental Facelift’ promises to make you look up to 10 years younger!

LONDON – A pioneering new non-surgical technique, which promises to not only give you a perfect set of teeth, but also restructure the face to make it look up to ten years younger, has been dubbed as the ‘Dental Facelift’ in the U.S.

This four-step procedure involves manipulating of veneers, which are widely used by cosmetic … Read more >>.

Scan spots womb cancer before symptoms show up

LONDON – A test that can detect womb cancer in women months or even years before any symptoms show up has been developed.

The ultrasound scan can pick up the first signs of tumours in patients who feel perfectly healthy.
A study of 96 women found this method was 80 percent effective in picking up …. Read the original article  : here.

Australian women worry about genital ‘abnormality’

SYDNEY – Almost half of Australian women in a study said they would consider cosmetic genital surgery.

A study of almost 800 women revealed that 75 percent did not like their partner looking at their genitals during sex because they feared their body parts would be a turn-off, The Age reported Sunday on its website. … Original article on : Australian women worry about genital ‘abnormality’.

Want to lose weight? Get out of depression

WASHINGTON – Improving your mood might be the link to losing those extra pounds, suggests a new study.

The new study cites past surveys that show having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more – classified as obese – increases a person’s risk of depression by 50 percent to 150 percent.

“I expect that the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Want to lose weight? Get out of depression.

Meet the Kansas State University prof who works while walking!

WASHINGTON – Most of us get away with eating or listening to music while working, but this Professor walks.

Kansas State University professor Deb Sellers was very well acquainted with the ill effects of continual sitting and no exercise. So walking looked like the only other alternative.

She and husband, Mark, designed and built a standing desk … Read more >>.

WHO endorses new test for detecting TB in less than 2 hours

WASHINGTON – Dr. David Alland, chief of the Division of Infectious Disease at UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School, is the driving force behind the rapid tuberculosis test that received World Health Organization endorsement this week.

The test, which uses DNA technology to diagnose tuberculosis in less than two hours, will be widely distributed to countries around … Original article on : WHO endorses new test for detecting TB in less than 2 hours.

Vitamin D ‘cuts breast cancer risk by 43 pc’

LONDON – A new study has suggested that high levels of sunlight combined with a diet packed with Vitamin D can reduce the risk of breast cancer by 43 per cent.

Laboratory studies have suggested that Vitamin D may have a number of anti-cancer effects and has been shown to slow the spread of cancer cells.

Researchers …. Original source  : Vitamin D ‘cuts breast cancer risk by 43 pc’.

High intakes of folic acid may be linked to cancer

WASHINGTON – A new study has suggested that increased consumption of folic acid can reduce birth defects including neural tube defects, congenital heart disease and oral clefts but high intakes of folic acid may be linked to adverse events such as …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Flat-dwelling kids ‘more likely to be exposed to tobacco smoke’

LONDON – A US study has shown that kids living in flats have 45pc more exposure to tobacco smoke than those in detached houses.

According to researchers from Harvard and Rochester Universities, the exposure in flats is due to the smoke seeping in through walls … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Flat-dwelling kids ‘more likely to be exposed to tobacco smoke’.

Osteoporosis drug may benefit patients with oral cancer

Washington, Dec 14 ANI): In a study of mice with oral cancer, a drug currently approved for osteoporosis treatment has been shown to reduce bone loss.

The research suggests that the drug could serve as an important supplemental therapy in patients with head and neck cancers that erode bone.

In this Ohio State …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Longer life spans scarred by more sickness

WASHINGTON – Longer life spans are scarred by more number of years of sickness than before, reveals a new study.

Indeed, a 20-year-old today can expect to live one less healthy year over his or her life span than a 20-year-old a decade ago, even though life expectancy has grown.
From 1970 to 2005, the …. Read the original article  : Longer life spans scarred by more sickness.

Compound extracted from tree ‘can help fight leukemia’

KUALA LUMPUR – A new compound is showing promise against some forms of cancer like leukemia.

The compound comes from the Aglaia foveolata tree, found in Sarawak’s highlands, and has entered pre-clinical trials.

Scientists at the Sarawak Biodiversity Centre (SBC), which owns the intellectual property rights to the plant, say that the experiments found an extracted compound …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Smoking accounts for more than a third of severe rheumatoid arthritis cases

WASHINGTON – A new research has found that smoking accounts for more than a third of cases of the most severe and common form of rheumatoid arthritis.

The study has also found that it accounts for more than half of cases in people who are genetically susceptible to development of the disease.

The researchers conducted their research …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Smoking accounts for more than a third of severe rheumatoid arthritis cases.

Pills to bust blues raise heart attack risk

LONDON – Pills to bust the blues carry fatal heart attack risks too, says a new research.

The latest study by Mark Hamer of the University College, London shows that people on older drugs, tricyclic antidepressants, are at far higher risk of cardiovascular disease than those taking the newer class of pills, selective serotonin … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pills to bust blues raise heart attack risk.

Tax on Sodas Proved Futile to Lose Weight

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — According to a new study there will no such profound effect by imposing a tax on soda as it might not speak loud enough to help people lose weight.
In an effort to combat the growing obesity epidemic, legislators in some states have recently contemplated charging a sugar tax on sweetened … Read : Tax on Sodas Proved Futile to Lose Weight.

FDA Warns Men on Sexual Enhancement Pills

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) is asking men to prevent themselves from taking Man Up Now capsules that is sexual enhancement pill for men.
According to FDA the capsule contains an active ingredient found in Viagra that can lower blood pressure to dangerous levels. Though the capsule is marked as …. Source  : FDA Warns Men on Sexual Enhancement Pills.

We spend more time sick now than 10 years ago

WASHINGTON – A new study has shown that average “morbidity,” or, the period of life spend with serious disease or loss of functional mobility, has actually increased in the last few decades.

The research was carried by Eileen Crimmins, AARP Chair in Gerontology at the University of Southern California, and Hiram Beltran-Sanchez, a postdoctoral fellow at … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : We spend more time sick now than 10 years ago.

How virus triggers cervical and mouth cancer

LONDON – Scientists have discovered an important new way in which the human papilloma virus (HPV) triggers cancer in what could lead to new treatments for cervical and mouth cancer.

HPV infection is known to increase the risk of developing cancers of the cervix and mouth with …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : How virus triggers cervical and mouth cancer.

Human body can create its own vaccine to boost the immune system

WASHINGTON – Scientists have discovered that the human body can create its own vaccine, which boosts the immune system and helps prevent chronic inflammatory diseases.

Researchers at the Biotech Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC) at the University of Copenhagen have discovered a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Human body can create its own vaccine to boost the immune system.

Study on zebrafish paves way for new cancer treatment

WASHINGTON – The imaging of tumour growth in zebrafish has shed light on how newly formed cancer cells can co-opt the immune system into spreading the disease.

The work is leading the way for investigations into potential therapies for eliminating early-stage cancer in humans

Using different coloured … Read more »».

Regular exercise may prevent middle-age weight gain

WASHINGTON – A new study has revealed that young adults, particularly women, who maintained high levels of moderate and vigorous activity over a period of 20 years experienced smaller gains in weight and waist circumference during the transition from young adulthood to middle age, compared to individuals with lower activity levels.

Arlene L. Hankinson, of the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Regular exercise may prevent middle-age weight gain.

Constipation more likely in kids avoiding green diets

LONDON – Children who avoid greens in their diet are 13 times more likely to be constipated, says a new study.

The research also found that drinking less than two glasses of water daily increases the risk significantly.
Constipation is an often painful condition when bowel movements are infrequent or hard to pass and can … Original article on : Constipation more likely in kids avoiding green diets.

Drinking 3 glasses of milk daily ‘cuts heart disease risk by 18pc’

WASHINGTON – Drinking three glasses of milk per day decreases the risk of cardiovascular disease by 18 percent, says researchers.

Wageningen and Harvard University researchers examined 17 studies from Europe, USA and Japan, and found no link between the consumption of regular or low-fat dairy and any increased risk of heart disease, stroke or total mortality.

“Milk …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Drinking 3 glasses of milk daily ‘cuts heart disease risk by 18pc’.

Have asthma? Allergens could be growing in your lungs

WASHINGTON – A University of Leicester study looking at the allergic reactions that asthmatics suffer towards a common mould have found that many people with asthma actually had the mould growing in their own lungs.

The team based in the Institute for Lung Health at the University of Leicester and Glenfield Hospital examined the impact on … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Have asthma? Allergens could be growing in your lungs.

Catching flu early can protect you from asthma later

LONDON – Catching viruses such as flu when you’re younger could protect you from developing allergies later in life, says a new study.

Kids today are far too ‘clean’ for their own well being as the immune system can over-react if it doesn’t have enough viruses to fight, it points.
The study bolsters evidence that …. Read the original article  : here.

Drinking alcohol with rich meal ‘doesn’t cause indigestion’

LONDON – While alcohol may slow down digestion following a rich calorific meal, it will not cause indigestion symptoms such as heartburn, belching and bloating, according to a new research.

In order to determine the effects of alcohol on the digestive system when rich meals are consumed, investigators at the University Hospital of Zurich, led by … Read more >>>.

Kosovo PM likened to “mafia-like” Albanian group responsible for kidney racket

PRISHTINA – A Council of Europe inquiry report on organised crime has revealed that Kosovo’s Prime Minister Hashim Thaci is the head of a “mafia-like” Albanian group responsible for smuggling weapons, drugs and human organs through eastern Europe.

According to The Guardian, the two-year inquiry identified Thaci as the chief of the network that … Read more : Kosovo PM likened to “mafia-like” Albanian group responsible for kidney racket.

‘Staph’ bacteria prefer the taste of human blood

WASHINGTON – Vanderbilt University scientists have discovered that “Staph” bacteria prefer the taste of human blood.

“Staph” bacteria feed on blood. They need the iron that’s hidden away inside red blood cells to grow and cause infections.

The researchers report that Staphylococcus aureus (staph) favours human hemoglobin – the oxygen-carrying protein that contains iron – over … Read more »»».

Finally, a ‘fountain of youth’ drug?

LONDON – A fountain of youth drug which could help people stay fit and healthy long into old age has been unveiled by doctors.

In tests, tiny amounts of the drug lenalidomide massively boosted immune system chemicals key to fighting off invaders from bugs to tumours. Concentrations of one of the protective compounds rose more …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Finally, a ‘fountain of youth’ drug?.

Zero-calorie candy for sweet-looking face

LONDON – The first sweet candy claiming to make people look better is to hit the shops here next year.

‘Beauty candy’, part of the ‘Beauty’in’ brand, claims to increase energy levels, boost health, slow down the ageing process and improve skin complexion.
The confectionery supposedly contains zero fat, preservatives, sugar and sodium, has less … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Zero-calorie candy for sweet-looking face.

Being a part of social groups ‘can improve mental health’

WASHINGTON – A new study has concluded that being a part of many different social groups can improve mental health and help a person cope with stressful events.

And it also leads to better physical health, making you more able to withstand-and recover faster from-physical challenges.

Belonging to groups, such as networks of friends, family, clubs … Read more >>.

Body fat distribution linked to a higher risk of ER-negative breast cancer

WASHINGTON – A new study has revealed that body fat distribution does not play an important role in the incidence of every subtype of premenopausal breast cancer, but is associated with an increased risk for estrogen receptor (ER)-negative breast cancer.

Previous studies have shown that the association between body mass index (BMI) and the risk … Read more »».

Asthma patients have garden mould growing in lungs

LONDON – A common garden mould that causes an allergic reaction in asthmatics actually grows in many patients’ lungs.

The discovery was made during research into the impact of the mould Aspergillus fumigates on asthmatics. The fungi is usually found in soil and compost heaps.
Andy Wardlaw of the University of Leicester, who led the … Original article on : Asthma patients have garden mould growing in lungs.

Social networks help members cope better with challenges

SYDNEY – Being part of different social groups can improve mental health and enable one to cope better with stressful events, reveals a new study.

Belonging to groups, such as networks of friends, family, clubs and sport teams, affects mental health because groups provide support, help one feel good about self and keep one …. Source  : Social networks help members cope better with challenges.

A quarter of Brit kids are overweight or obese by the age of 5

LONDON – A new report has revealed that a quarter of Brit children are already overweight or obese when they start school at the age of 4.

And by the time they leave primary school at the age of 11, more than one in three will be too fat and at serious risk of long-term health …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : A quarter of Brit kids are overweight or obese by the age of 5.

New discovery shows promise against pancreatic cancer

WASHINGTON – Johns Hopkins scientists have made a new discovery that could be helpful in the fight against pancreatic cancer.

By determining what goes missing in human cells when the gene that is most commonly mutated in pancreatic cancer gets turned on, scientists have discovered a potential strategy for therapy.

The production of a particular cluster of …. Original article  : New discovery shows promise against pancreatic cancer.

How ‘chameleon-like’ HIV virus eludes treatment by mutating

WASHINGTON – A new study has shed light on how chameleon-like HIV virus constantly mutates into forms and gets away even from the best cocktail of current therapies.

This understanding may help developing better tests and treatments for patients.

Stefan Sarafianos, … Read more : How ‘chameleon-like’ HIV virus eludes treatment by mutating.

Pak should do away with 43 training camps on its soil: Russian envoy

NEW DELHI -Russia’s Ambassador to India, Alexander M. Kadakin, on Friday, described terrorism coming out of Pakistan as cancer, and urged Islamabad to do away with the 43 terrorist training camps that are known to be operating from its soil.

“We want Pakistan to solve its internal problems. We don’t want …. Read the original article  : here.

Couples with kids ditch fruit, vegetables

LONDON – Busy parents are much more likely to wolf down unhealthy meals compared to childless couples.

University of Reading researchers found couples who only had to take care of themselves ate two kg more fruits and vegetables over a fortnight than the ones with families.
The study revealed that parents also bought less meat …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Industry pressure led to deferment of tobacco warnings’

NEW DELHI – The new and graphic pictorial warnings on tobacco products were deferred due to pressure from the tobacco industry, including ITC and the Pan Shop Owners Association, an RTI query has revealed.

According to NGO Voluntary Health Association of India (VHAI) that filed the RTI, the government has “admitted” that the new pictorial …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Industry pressure led to deferment of tobacco warnings’.

How to accomplish weight loss resolutions in the New Year

WASHINGTON – The best way to shed those extra pounds is to break down the weight loss resolutions into small, manageable tasks you can work on every day.

Stefanie C. Barthmare, a psychotherapist with the Methodist Weight Management Center in Houston said, “Instead of making the number on the scale the focus, look for other ways … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : How to accomplish weight loss resolutions in the New Year.

Powerful biomarker panel for early detection of breast cancer discovered

WASHINGTON – Using a new, powerful method for rapidly screening molecules associated with breast cancer, scientists have discovered a broad panel of 28 early predictors, or biomarkers that may aid in the early diagnosis of the disease.

“We do not have any available blood markers for breast cancer,” said proteomics expert Joshua LaBaer from the Biodesign … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Powerful biomarker panel for early detection of breast cancer discovered.

Indian doctor censures Nepal ex-crown prince’s lifestyle

KATHMANDU – The man who had saved Nepal’s crown prince Paras three years ago, when he had a heart attack, is unhappy with the lifestyle of the now deposed royal, calling it “unhealthy”.

Indian cardiologist Bharat Rawat, who carried out an emergency operation on Paras’ heart at the Norvic International Hospital in Kathmandu in 2007, … Read more >>>.

Tiny smart chip to combat chronic pain

LONDON – A revolutionary new smart chip, the size of a match head implanted in the spinal cord, blocks pain signals and prevents them from reaching the brain.

The tiny device works by monitoring the nerves carrying pain signals and firing electrical pulses of up to 10 volts that block the undesirable signals from reaching … Read : Tiny smart chip to combat chronic pain.

Genetic variation linked to liver cirrhosis in alcoholic Caucasians identified

WASHINGTON – A variation in the PNPLA3 (adiponutrin) gene is associated with cirrhosis of the liver and elevated transaminase (liver enzyme) levels in alcoholic Caucasians, a new study by German researchers has found.

The risk of cirrhosis in alcoholics in the genetic high-risk group might be as high as 25 pc to 50 pc.

Alcoholic liver … Original source on Gaea Times at : Genetic variation linked to liver cirrhosis in alcoholic Caucasians identified.

Bobby Jindal hit by fifth recall petition by disillusioned voter in 2 yr office term

WASHINGTON – Bobby Jindal, the Indian origin Governor of Louisiana, was hit by another recall petition on Wednesday after an independent voter sought Jindal’s removal because of cuts to higher education and health care programs.

According to Politico, Jindal has been hit by five recall petitions, including the latest one, so far in just two years …. Source article  : Bobby Jindal hit by fifth recall petition by disillusioned voter in 2 yr office term.

Stove fumes as big a killer as AIDS

NEW DELHI – Your kitchen stove can do more than cook your meals – it can cook your goose too!

Some 400,000 Indians die each year due to the toxic fumes from kitchen stoves that use firewood or biomass like cow-dung. A British NGO has now joined forces to stop this hazard by introducing improved …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Stove fumes as big a killer as AIDS.

Beauty with brains: Brit student wins World Miss University title

LONDON – A British student, who is an honours graduate, a champion kick-boxer, a model, an actress, and an aid worker, has become the first in UK to win the World Miss University title.

Katie Farr, 24, from Leeds, who beat 40 other …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Beauty with brains: Brit student wins World Miss University title.

Novel drug may benefit cystic fibrosis patients

WASHINGTON – Researchers have suggested that cystic fibrosis (CF) patients with normal to mildly impaired lung function may benefit from a new investigational drug designed to help prevent formation of the sticky mucus that is a hallmark of the disease.

Called denufosol, the investigational medication can be given early in the CF disease process, and may …. Source  : Novel drug may benefit cystic fibrosis patients.

Drinking tea may prevent weight gain caused by junk foods

LONDON – Want to shed those extra pounds but still eat your favourite junk foods? Well, drinking tea could be the solution.

Researchers at Kobe University, Japan found that regular consumption of tea also suppressed damaging changes in the blood linked to fatty foods that can lead to type 2 diabetes, reports the Daily Mail.

In the … Read more : Drinking tea may prevent weight gain caused by junk foods.

GE Healthcare to distribute infant warmers in rural India

BANGALORE – Global medical equipment maker GE Healthcare Friday announced that it would soon distribute low-cost infant warmers in rural India in partnership with social enterprise Embrace to help improve rural infant care.

The warmer, in the form of a small sleeping bag, not only keeps infants warm for hours, but also helps protect them … Read this article on Gaea Times at : GE Healthcare to distribute infant warmers in rural India.

Baba Ramdev to enter politics?

DEOGHAR – Baba Ramdev, renowned yoga guru, on Friday hinted at having political ambitions.

Ramdev is currently on his anti-corruption drive called ‘Bharat Swabhiman Yatra’ in Jharkhand’s Deoghar District.

Ramdev claimed he is out to ‘cleanse’ the world’s largest democracy of 1.2 billion people of … Read more »».

Expansive health insurance announced for Goan families

PANAJI – Chief Minister Digambar Kamat here Friday announced a universal health scheme under which every family in Goa will be covered for first and secondary health aid up to Rs.60,000.

Kamat said that every family in the state with five members or less, would be covered under the insurance cover scheme.
“We … Read more >>>.

Childless couples ‘enjoy a better diet of fruit and veggies than families’

LONDON – A new study by experts at the University of Reading has revealed that childless couples enjoy a better diet of fruit and veg than families.

Researchers found that adults who had only themselves to look after ate almost 5lb more fruit and vegetables than families …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Childless couples ‘enjoy a better diet of fruit and veggies than families’.

People in 60s cope better with stress

WASHINGTON – People in their 60s are better at coping with stressful situations than their younger counterparts and empathizing with the less fortunate.

A team of researchers led by University of California, Berkeley psychologist Robert Levenson, is tracking how our emotional strategies and responses change as we age.
Their findings support the theory … Read : People in 60s cope better with stress.

Avoid 3D TV – it can make you really sick

LONDON – Avoid 3D TV as it can disorient the brain, causing eye strain, headaches, nausea and sickness, scientists warn.

And the closer one is to the screen, the worse one feels, making 3D TVs more problematic than cinema screens.
Studies show that in up to 20 percent of the viewers it could even induce … Original source on Gaea Times at : Avoid 3D TV – it can make you really sick.

US students defend decision to defy ‘boobies’ bracelets ban

LOS ANGELES – Two middle-school students in the US have defended their decision to defy a school district ban of the popular ‘I [heart] boobies!’ bracelets, saying they did it for breast cancer awareness.

Brianna Hawk, 13, and Kayla Martinez, 12, were suspended from a Pennsylvania school in October for wearing the bracelets, which administrators had …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : US students defend decision to defy ‘boobies’ bracelets ban.

Scans show more brain activity when people meditate

LONDON – People who pray, meditate and perform religious rituals show considerably more activity in their brain’s frontal lobe during these activities than when the brain is at rest, a scientist has found.

Andrew Newberg from the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and Medical College in the US is a proponent of neurotheology, which tries to … Read : Scans show more brain activity when people meditate.

Heart patients watch out, winter can be deadly

GURGAON/NEW DELHI – As the mercury dips, doctors warn that heart patients are at double the risk of suffering a cardiac attack as compared to summer.

Though winters see lesser diseases linked to breeding of bacteria and viruses, the fall in temperature poses an additional risk for those suffering from heart problems or high blood … Read : Heart patients watch out, winter can be deadly.

Vatican Library carries books on Hinduism and Yoga

NEVADA – Even the Vatican Library has books on Hinduism and Yoga.

Catalogue search reveals that besides nine books on the subject of Yoga, Vatican Library carries books on Hindu civilization, manners-customs-ceremonies, music, pantheon, psychology, theology; in addition to some titles on Hinduism.

Well known Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, applauding … Read more >>>.

Recognise hospitals practising alternative systems: Homeopathic Congress

NEW DELHI – Accreditation process for hospitals practising homeopathy needs to be stepped up as recent studies have proven the efficiency of homeopathy in managing chronic diseases, doctors said at the 17th All India Homeopathic Congress here.

“Recent research and studies have proven the efficiency of homeopathy in managing chronic diseases such as cancer and …. Source article  : Recognise hospitals practising alternative systems: Homeopathic Congress.

Assange’s ‘promiscuous lifestyle, refusal to test for HIV led to charges’

LONDON – A WikiLeaks employee has shed new light on the allegations of sexual misconduct that led to Julian Assange’s legal troubles.

WikiLeaks’ Swedish co-ordinator said in an exclusive interview that the two women, who say Assange sexually assaulted them, would never have complained to police if he had agreed to take an HIV test, reports … Read more >>>.

Wealthy people more likely to be get certain cancers

SYDNEY – People living in wealthy suburbs are more likely to get certain types of cancer than those living in poorer zones, according to a report by Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.

The report revealed that richer people were more likely to get breast, prostate and skin cancer, and poorer people were more likely to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Wealthy people more likely to be get certain cancers.

Mistletoe helps kiss cancer side-effects goodbye

LONDON – Mistletoe ‘magic’ may seal romance, bestow fertility and bring peace to warring spouses, according to folklore. Now the plant has also been credited with the power of healing, currently being harnessed to combat the side-efects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

A new outpatient unit at the independent Raphael Medical Centre in Kent, which offers …. Original article  : Mistletoe helps kiss cancer side-effects goodbye.

Oral Cholera Vaccine trial successfully completed in Kochi

KOLKATA – The National Institute for Cholera and Enteric Diseases (NICED) has successfully completed the trial of an Oral Cholera Vaccine (OCV) here on Saturday.

In 2006, the NICED reformulated the composition of a particular double dose OCV, which was produced in Sweden and later …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Oral Cholera Vaccine trial successfully completed in Kochi.

‘Malaria kills over 2 lakh Indians every year’

ALIGARH – Malaria kills around 205,000 people in India every year, more than 13 times the estimate by the World Health Organisation (WHO), an official said here Saturday.

India also accounted for 70 percent of malaria cases in the southeast Asian region, said Prof. M. Ashraf Malik, principal and chief medical superintendent of J.N. Medical …. Original article  : ‘Malaria kills over 2 lakh Indians every year’.

US hospital hires models in lab coats, high heels ‘to attract men’

LONDON – A hospital in America is said to have spent millions of dollars to hire models in lab coats, short skirts and high heels to attract men for DNA tests, overcharging them at the same time.

UMass Memorial Health Care is being investigated by authorities in New Hampshire over “suspect marketing and billing practices”, revealed … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US hospital hires models in lab coats, high heels ‘to attract men’.

Himachal to launch free ambulance service

SHIMLA – Himachal Pradesh will launch a free ambulance service this week to provide timely medical aid to its residents during emergencies, Health Minister Rajeev Bindal said here Monday.

The Atal Swasthya Sewa named after former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee would be launched on his birthday (Dec 25) initially in Shimla, Hamirpur, Sirmaur, Solan, … Original article on : Himachal to launch free ambulance service.

The hour-by-hour guide of combating a cold before it takes a toll on you!

WASHINGTON – Is a cold taking a toll on you and you don’t know how to get rid of it? Well, don’t panic as an expert gives you some simple steps to lessen your agony.

Holly Phillips of WCBS-TV in New York gives you an hour-by-hour cold-fighting countdown, reports CBS News.

Hour 1: … Read : The hour-by-hour guide of combating a cold before it takes a toll on you!.

Beetroot juice could energise the elderly

LONDON – Beetroot juice could energise the elderly to lead more active lives, says a new study.

In tests, they required less energy to carry out low-intensity exercises after drinking the juice. The amount of effort it took to walk was reduced by 12 percent.
This could allow the elderly to carry out tasks they … Read more >>>.

Features of metabolic syndrome prevalent in people with psoriasis

WASHINGTON – A new study has found that people with psoriasis have a high prevalence of the metabolic syndrome.

The features that make up metabolic syndrome include obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes and high total cholesterol and triglyceride levels, according to background information in the … Read more : Features of metabolic syndrome prevalent in people with psoriasis.

Antibiotic used in meat, dairy industry slows prostate cancer growth

WASHINGTON – Finnish researchers have found that an antibiotic called ‘monensin’, used in the meat and dairy industry, could slow the growth of prostate cancer cells.

Evidence pointing to the effects of monensin emerged in a project investigating the effects of nearly … Read more >>.

Why a whole orange is better for you

WASHINGTON – Researchers at the Brigham Young University are squeezing all the healthy compounds out of oranges to find the right mixture responsible for their age-old health benefits.

The popular stocking stuffer is known for its vitamin C and blood-protecting antioxidants, but researchers wanted to learn why a whole orange is better for you than …. Original article  : Why a whole orange is better for you.

Cholesterol busting drugs might be bad for you

LONDON – Millions of people worldwide take cholesterol-lowering drugs known as statins to prevent heart attacks and strokes but a new study questions whether they actually work.

Hailed as ‘wonder pills’ by doctors and drug companies, other new evidence has linked statins with severe depression and suicide.
Statins are prescribed to anyone who …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Carcinogen in ‘Erin Brockovich’ found across 31 US cities

LONDON – The domestic tap water of 31 out of 35 US cities, which were surveyed, contains hexavalent chromium — the probable carcinogen made famous by the film “Erin Brockovich”.

The chemical has been linked to leukaemia in animals as well as liver and kidney damage.
The first nationwide analysis of the chemical … Read more »»».

Burning brown fat could be the key to tackling obesity

WASHINGTON – A new discovery may pave way for treating obesity not just by diet and exercise, but simply by burning the right kind of fat – brown fat.

Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center have identified progenitor cells in mouse white fat tissue and skeletal muscle that can be transformed into brown fat cells.

“It’s particularly exciting … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Burning brown fat could be the key to tackling obesity.

High Spirited People have Higher Risk of Obesity & Depression

KOLKATA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — You are a chilledout person with high spirits and no stress can or tensions can let your spirits down but beware of the fact that your health cab be let down by the risk of obesity and depression. It’s surprising but true that people who are cheerful and underreacts to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Nasal congestion ‘can be a sign of severe asthma’

WASHINGTON – A new study has suggested that nasal congestion can be a sign of severe asthma.

This means that healthcare professionals should be extra vigilant when it comes to nasal complaints.

Furthermore, more severe asthma appears to be more common than previously thought, reveals a study …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Acid suppressive drugs may increase pneumonia risk

WASHINGTON – A new study has suggested that using acid suppressive medications, such as proton pump inhibitors and histamine2 receptor antagonists, may increase the risk of pneumonia.

Acid suppressive drugs are the second leading medication worldwide, totaling over US 26 billion dollars in sales in 2005.

The systematic review incorporated all relevant studies on the association of …. Read the original article  : Acid suppressive drugs may increase pneumonia risk.

Echinacea ‘does not ward off common cold’

WASHINGTON – Echinacea has been used by many as a common cold remedy for years, but a new study has revealed that the herbal treatment has minimal effect in relieving the symptoms or shortening the duration of the illness.

Echinacea, a wild flower (also known as the purple coneflower), is …. Source article  : Echinacea ‘does not ward off common cold’.

Smoking may worsen cancer patients’ pain

WASHINGTON – Cancer patients who continue to smoke despite their diagnosis experience greater pain than nonsmokers, according to a new study.

Researchers at Texas A and M University found that for a wide range of cancer types and for cancers in stages I to IV, smoking was associated with increased pain severity and the extent …. Original article  : Smoking may worsen cancer patients’ pain.

Chinese wary of kids’ mats as chemical said to cause cancer

SHANGHAI – Parents in China are being extra careful while buying play mats for their children after some products in Europe were found to contain cancer-causing chemicals.

Belgium and France have banned brightly-coloured foam mats used by kindergartens and families with toddlers, because a recent study said formamide chemicals – used to soften the foam …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chinese wary of kids’ mats as chemical said to cause cancer.

Haiti cholera toll rises to 2,591

Port-au-Prince, Dec 22 (IANS/EFE) The toll in the deadly cholera epidemic in Haiti has risen to 2,591, officials said.

Since the cholera epidemic struck the poverty-stricken Caribbean country in mid-October, 121,518 people have been affected by the outbreak – of whom 63,711 were hospitalised, according to a latest report from the health ministry released Tuesday.
… Original source on Gaea Times at : Haiti cholera toll rises to 2,591.

Cambridge University students paid 250 pounds to take rave drug ketamine

LONDON – Students from Cambridge University were paid 250 pounds to take part in a psychiatric study where they were injected with rave drug ketamine.

The research was carried out by the Department of Psychiatry to look at different treatments for schizophrenia.

People who suffer from mental illnesses …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

No Speech or Swallowing Problem after Head & Neck Cancer Therapy

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — Most head and neck cancer patients can speak and swallow after undergoing combined chemotherapy and radiation treatment, but several factors may be associated with poor outcomes, researchers have found.
The study came out as a result of three years of detection. The U.S. researchers gave a speaking score of 1 through …. Source article  : No Speech or Swallowing Problem after Head & Neck Cancer Therapy.

New weight-loss mantra for teens: ditch the diet shakes and bars

NEW YORK – If you are an obese teen looking to shed those pounds – here’s a tip – ditch those diet bars and shakes, according to a new study.

Dr. Robert L. Berkowitz of the Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia tested … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : New weight-loss mantra for teens: ditch the diet shakes and bars.

Malaria-infected cells stiffen, block blood flow to brain and other organs

WASHINGTON – For the first time, scientists have shown the malaria parasite’s journeys in the body using advanced computer modeling and laboratory experiments.

Researchers at Brown University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology demonstrated how malaria parasites change red blood cells and how the infected cells impede blood flow to … Read more : Malaria-infected cells stiffen, block blood flow to brain and other organs.

Cancer-causing Chromium Detected in the Tap Water of 31 Cities in US

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com) — A study by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) revealed that tap water of nearly 31 cities contain deadly hexavalent chromium, a chemical that is believed to cause cancer.
The EWG investigated 35 cities and it stated that at least 74 million people in 42 states regularly drink chromium-tainted water, and a … Read : Cancer-causing Chromium Detected in the Tap Water of 31 Cities in US.

Connie Culp Nation’s First Full Face Transplant Patient

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — Connie Culp, recipient of first U.S. face transplant met with the family of the donor who blessed her with a new face.
Culp, a 47-year-old mother and grandmother, underwent the first full face transplant surgery in the U.S. in Dec. 2008 at the Cleveland Clinic. Before the surgery, Culp couldn’t walk … Read more >>>.

NGO files petition to ban junk food in schools

NEW DELHI – In an effort to encourage healthier eating habits in children, an NGO here has filed a public interest litigation (PIL) in the Delhi High Court to ban the sale of junk food and carbonated drinks in and around schools across the country.

“On the one hand, children are taught in the classroom … Original source on Gaea Times at : NGO files petition to ban junk food in schools.

Discovery suggests new way to prevent HIV from infecting human cells

WASHINGTON – Scientists have discovered how HIV binds to and destroys a specific human antiviral protein called APOBEC3F.

The results suggest that a simple chemical change can convert APOBEC3F to a more effective antiviral agent and that shielding of a common feature …. Read the original article  : Discovery suggests new way to prevent HIV from infecting human cells.

Cancer-causing chemical found in tap water of 31 US cities

WASHINGTON – Hexavalent chromium, an industrial chemical and a major health risk highlighted in the movie “Erin Brockovich” in 2000, continues to haunt Americans. A national survey has found that the drinking water in 31 US cities is contaminated with the substance.

The award-winning film recounts the legal battle waged by residents of Hinkley, California …. Read the original article  : Cancer-causing chemical found in tap water of 31 US cities.

American ’stroke belt’ fuelled by too much of fried fish

WASHINGTON – Fried fish is a major reason as to why people in Alabama and across the “stroke belt” states are likelier than other Americans to die of a stroke, according to a new study.

The REGARDS (Reasons for Geographic And Racial Differences in Stroke) trial led by George Howard at the University of Alabama at … Read more »»».

Arsenic-based agent shuts down hard-to-treat cancers

WASHINGTON – An arsenic-based agent already FDA-approved for a type of leukemia may be helpful in another hard-to-treat cancer, Ewing’s Sarcoma (ES), say scientists at the Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center.

The research, based on animal studies, also suggests the drug might be beneficial in treating medulloblastoma, a highly malignant pediatric brain cancer.

The investigators described … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Arsenic-based agent shuts down hard-to-treat cancers.

Designer probiotics could help in the fight against obesity

WASHINGTON – Scientists from the Alimentary Pharmabiotic Centre (APC), Cork, University College Cork and Teagasc, in Ireland say that specially designed probiotics can modulate the physiology of host fat cells.

According to researchers, the findings could lead to specialised probiotics that have a role in the prevention or treatment of conditions such as obesity.cientists engineered a …. Read the original article  : Designer probiotics could help in the fight against obesity.

Eating habits that ensure a longer life

WASHINGTON – A new study has found that the leading causes of death are no more infectious diseases but chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and cancer – which may be affected by food habits.

Researchers investigated eating patterns of over 2500 adults between the ages of 70 and 79 over a ten-year period and found …. Source  : Eating habits that ensure a longer life.

Mercury makes eco-bulbs ‘a health hazard for babies and pregnant’

LONDON – The European Union is phasing out the traditional ‘incandescent bulbs’ used for more than 120 years and is forcing people to switch to low-energy alternatives to meet its climate change targets.

However, energy-saving light bulbs are at the centre of a fresh health scare after researchers claimed that these bulbs could release potentially …. Source  : Mercury makes eco-bulbs ‘a health hazard for babies and pregnant’.

Mike Huckabee defends Michelle Obama in food fight with Sarah Palin

WASHINGTON – Potential Republican presidential candidate Mike Huckabee has defended US First Lady Michelle Obama on her push to combat childhood obesity.

He said Sarah Palin was wrong to mock the first lady’s fight against childhood obesity in the latest episode of her reality TV show ‘Sarah Palin’s Alaska’, reports the Politico.

“With all due respect to …. Original article  : Mike Huckabee defends Michelle Obama in food fight with Sarah Palin.

Obese people likelier to report exercise as trigger for asthma: Study

WASHINGTON – A new study has found that obese people are likelier to report exercise as the trigger for asthma.

“Compared with normal-weight participants, patients who were overweight or obese were more likely to report ETA (exercise-induced asthma),” said Simon Bacon, a professor at the Concordia Department of Exercise Science and a researcher at the Hopital … Original source on Gaea Times at : Obese people likelier to report exercise as trigger for asthma: Study.

Nagging partners ‘can give you heartache’

WASHINGTON – Nagging from a partner significantly increases the risk of suffering angina, the precursor to coronary artery disease, according to a new study.

Dealing with worries from children and other family members also adds to the burden, researchers said.

Previous research has indicated that rewarding personal relationships are a boost for heart health, so authors wanted …. Read the original article  : here.

Alternative remedies can be fatal for children

LONDON – Using alternative remedies for children can be fatal, experts have warned.

Parents can be misled into believing that treatments such as homeopathy are more ‘natural’, with fewer side-effects than conventional allopathic drugs, a new study says.
But they may have direct dangerous effects, and even lead to death, when substituted for effective conventional … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Alternative remedies can be fatal for children.

Honey, a sweet way of getting you over hangovers

LONDON – Scientists claim that a natural sweetener like honey is a great way to deal with the toxic effects of a hangover.

The Royal Society of Chemistry claims that the fructose in the honey – which is also found in golden syrup – is essential to help the body break down alcohol into …. Original source  : Honey, a sweet way of getting you over hangovers.

Neurosurgeon Indrajit Roy will be new sheriff of Kolkata

KOLKATA – Eminent neurosurgeon Indrajit Roy will be the new sheriff of Kolkata, West Bengal government sources said here Friday.

Roy will take over from the incumbent noted journalist Utpal Chatterjee next month, Law Minister Rabilal Moitra told IANS.
“I have been hearing about this. But I am yet to see …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Neurosurgeon Indrajit Roy will be new sheriff of Kolkata.

Beware! Your partner’s nagging could invite heartache

LONDON – This could be a valid reason for your partner to stop nagging — it significantly increases your risk of suffering angina.

Angina is a pain or discomfort in the chest and is usually caused by coronary heart disease. Some might experience focused pain only in arm, neck, stomach or jaw.
While … Original source on Gaea Times at : Beware! Your partner’s nagging could invite heartache.

How physical activity grows a healthy heart

WASHINGTON – We all know that exercise comes with metabolic and cardiovascular benefits, but little is understood about how physical activity influences the heart itself.

Now, a new study offers some of the first molecular-level insights.

The studies in mice has suggested that exercise turns on a genetic program that leads the heart to …. Read the original article  : here.

Sticking to a vegetarian diet may be good for kidney disease patients

WASHINGTON – A new study has suggested that sticking to a vegetarian diet can help kidney disease patients avoid accumulating toxic levels of phosphorous in their bodies.

Kidney disease patients must limit their phosphorous intake, as high levels of the mineral can lead to heart disease and death.

While medical guidelines recommend low phosphorus diets for patients …. Read the original article  : Sticking to a vegetarian diet may be good for kidney disease patients.

You are what your father ate

WASHINGTON – Environmental influences, including diet, that a father experiences can be transmitted to his offspring, “reprogramming” the latter’s genes.

A study has thrown up new evidence that environmental cues influence genes in mammals from one generation to the next.
These insights, coupled with previous human studies, suggest that paternal environmental effects may play …. Read the original article  : here.

Chinese students hospitalised after eating noodles

BEIJING – Over 20 students in China’s Heilongjiang province fell sick after eating noodles in school and had to be rushed to hospital, officials said Friday.

The students of Deqiang Primary and Secondary School in Harbin began suffering from vomiting and diarrhoea at about 4 p.m. Thursday, said Wei Jinghai, a school supervisor.
The students … Read more : Chinese students hospitalised after eating noodles.

Yoga terrible for your knees, Indian doctor warns

LONDON – Performing yoga on a regular basis could hurt your knees, an Indian orthopaedic surgeon has warned.

Dr Ashok Rajgopal said that he has seen a higher incidence of joint and bone ailments among the followers of the practice and has performed knee replacement surgery on a number of leading yoga gurus.

His warning has challenged … Read more : Yoga terrible for your knees, Indian doctor warns.

Chhattisgarh improves infant mortality rate

RAIPUR – Chhattisgarh government Thursday said it had brought down the infant mortality rate and credited its health welfare schemes for the success.

“The infant mortality rate has come down to 57 per 1,000 cases while it was 79 per 1,000 cases at the time of the creation of the state in November 2000,” a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Chhattisgarh improves infant mortality rate.

Madhya Pradesh under hazardous wastes threat

BHOPAL – If you think Union Carbide is the only hub of hazardous wastes in Madhya Pradesh, you are in for a shock. There are seven other sites where tonnes of hazardous wastes have been posing a threat to people’s health for over a decade.

The Right to Information Act (RTI) has helped reveal that …. Original source  : Madhya Pradesh under hazardous wastes threat.

Pakistani girl undergoes sex change operation

ISLAMABAD – A 13-year-old Pakistani girl underwent a successful sex change operation after doctors said her physiology was that of a male.

The teenaged girl, Aisha, was brought to the Hafizabad district headquarters hospital in Punjab province after she complained of chronic pain in her stomach.
Zahoor Ahmed, a urologist, examined her and told her … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pakistani girl undergoes sex change operation.

Risk of Angina Pain Increases with Increase in Family Stress

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — If your life is entangled with stress related to personal relationships like relation with your spouse or children then that may increase the risk of heart disease, a new study found.
Family worries and unhealthy relationships can elevate the risk for developing the severe chest pain condition known as angina. Researchers … Original source on Gaea Times at : Risk of Angina Pain Increases with Increase in Family Stress.

Buying breast milk online not safe, warn experts

NEW YORK – Experts have raised concerns over the safety of breast-milk that is being sold over the Internet.

The Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning saying that breast milk bought via the Internet or through individual may not be wise.

Online forums like OnlytheBreast.com and EatsonFeets.org allow moms who make more breast milk than …. Source article  : Buying breast milk online not safe, warn experts.

Madhya Pradesh tops child mortality, malnutrition rates

BHOPAL – Madhya Pradesh tops the child mortality and malnutrition rates among children in the country, a central health ministry report has said.

The latest report of the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) says that Madhya Pradesh has also fared poor in the mother mortality rate, remaining behind three states.
According to the NRHM, which … Read more »»».

Life-saving test developed for pregnant women

LONDON – Scientists have developed a life-saving test that can predict which woman with high blood pressure in pregnancy will go on to have complications.

Pre-eclampsia affects up to one in 10 pregnant women, causing high blood pressure and protein in the urine. Eclampsia is a condition where the mother may suffer seizures, fall …. Read the original article  : Life-saving test developed for pregnant women.

Obese People More Prone to Die in Car Accidents

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — The rise in obesity is now a major concern across the world and its already an epidemic. Now already obesity is linked with causing many chronic diseases like hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, cancer and gallbladder disease. Adding to this dilemma a team of medical experts have found that obese … Original article on : Obese People More Prone to Die in Car Accidents.

Briton delivers baby – with internet tips on his iPhone

LONDON – A man who was stuck at his snowed-in home in Britain helped deliver his girlfriend’s baby by checking the internet on his iPhone.

Chris Corfield used his phone to look online for tips on how to deliver a baby when his girlfriend Jenni Visser went into labour at their home in Southport, Merseyside, …. Original article  : Briton delivers baby – with internet tips on his iPhone.

Coming soon, do-it-yourself kit for genetic testing

NEW DELHI – A mobile phone-like device will soon rule out a patient’s need to visit a pathological lab for detection of genetic disorders and also do away with the prolonged wait for a forensic expert’s report to find clues about criminals.

Unlike the traditional method which requires high expertise as well as complicated equipment …. Read the original article  : Coming soon, do-it-yourself kit for genetic testing.

iPods filled with music could help patients recover from ops faster

LONDON – Apple iPods loaded with patients’ favourite music could help them recover from operations faster.

A trial will be conducted to test the theory that patients allowed to listen to music feel less pain, need less medication and leave hospital sooner after surgery, reports the Daily Express.

The trial would involve about 120 patients at Barts …. Source article  : iPods filled with music could help patients recover from ops faster.

Motivational interviewing for smoking cessation may not be best option

WASHINGTON – Experts have suggested that motivational interviewing, a popular counseling technique for many addictive behaviors, might not be the ideal treatment choice for those who smoke cigarettes.
eter S. Hendricks, a University of Alabama at Birmingham researcher, says the reason might be, well – motivation.

He says that motivational interviewing produced only modest improvement for people … Read : Motivational interviewing for smoking cessation may not be best option.

Reach your ideal weight by writing what you eat

WASHINGTON – If you’re trying to shed those extra pounds and hitting the gym and dieting have failed to work, then try this.

The first step to reaching your ideal weight may be as simple as writing it down.

Putting a pen to paper and keeping a daily journal of meals and snacks is one of the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Here are 6 tips to kick start weight loss in the New Year

WASHINGTON – Now experts from the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center can help you stick to that New Year’s resolution of losing weight if you just follow these six tips.

1. Keep moving each day: all it takes to see a weight-loss benefit is 30 to 60 minutes of aerobic activity daily.

“You don’t need to be athletic. …. Source article  : Here are 6 tips to kick start weight loss in the New Year.

Chilean woman found carrying brainless foetus

Santiago, Dec 26 (IANS/EFE) A Chilean woman, who is 36 weeks pregnant, has been found to carry a foetus which has no brain.

After learning about her baby’s condition, Claudia Pizarro, who also suffers from cancer of the uterus, has appealed to a court to let her undergo a therapeutic abortion.
Pizarro presented an appeal … Read more »».

China sets up bank to freeze eggs of women cancer patients

SHANGHAI – China will set up an egg bank for women suffering from cancer to store their ovum in freezer so they can have babies before undergoing chemotherapy or a surgery, which could damage their reproductive ability.

The authority has plans to set up the bank in three years, China Daily reported, quoting the Shanghai … Original source on Gaea Times at : China sets up bank to freeze eggs of women cancer patients.

Himachal Pradesh launches free ambulance service

SHIMLA – Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal Saturday launched a free ambulance service here to provide timely medical aid to people in emergencies.

With this launch, the residents in Shimla, Sirmaur, Solan, Una, Hamirpur, Kangra and Bilaspur districts would be able to get round-the-clock ambulance service by calling at a toll free … Original source on Gaea Times at : Himachal Pradesh launches free ambulance service.

China’s sex advice clinic shuts as shy youths go online

SHANGHAI – A health clinic in China providing free advice on sex-related problems to youngsters was closed after five years as it failed to attract enough visitors.

The clinic, which operated under the Shanghai International Peace Maternal and Child Health Hospital, was set up to provide free sex advice and condoms to people aged 15-24.
…. Source article on Gaea Times at  : China’s sex advice clinic shuts as shy youths go online.

Texting before going to bed ‘affects sleep, mood’

WASHINGTON – It may be time for you to put you cellphone aside before going to bed for it might affect your sleep and moods, according to a new study.

Text messaging and other electronic communication media were linked to excessive movement during [..] Read the original article: here.

Booze ‘much more harmful than crack or heroin’

LONDON – A study has revealed that alcohol causes much more damage to health than heroin or crack cocaine.

Professor David Nutt, the government’s former chief drug adviser, conducted an analysis that assesses both harm to the individual and harm to the rest of society – and alcohol turned out to …. Original article  : Booze ‘much more harmful than crack or heroin’.

Nurses go on strike in Madhya Pradesh

BHOPAL – Around 2,500 nurses in government hospitals of Madhya Pradesh struck work Monday, demanding a hike in salary and improvement in work conditions, even as the state government invoked the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) on nursing services for three months.

“Along with other demands, salaries at par with sixth pay commission recommendations … Read : Nurses go on strike in Madhya Pradesh.

City of lakes attracts thousands at National Forest Fair

BHOPAL – You name a forest-related product and you will get it at the ongoing tenth National Forest Fair in the city of lakes.

The fair, organised by the Madhya Pradesh Minor Forest Federation, has showcased products for treatment of various diseases with the help of roots, branches or leaves.
The idea may … Read more »»».

‘Good bacteria’ in yogurt may not be as healthy as you think!

MELBOURNE – Probiotic yoghurts and yoghurt drinks may not be as healthy as they are claimed to be – the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has found that there is not enough evidence that these products have a positive effect on the immune system and digestive health.

The manufacturers of these products had been claiming that … Read more >>>.

‘Miracle’ diet pill reduces food cravings, burns calories even while sitting!

LONDON – A new ‘miracle’ weight loss pill that is being used by the likes of Eva Longoria and Courteney Cox is all the rage.

Meratol increases metabolism, reduces calorie intake, blocks carbohydrates and burns calories all at once, claim its makers.

It even claims to enable people to burn 310 calories while sitting at their desk, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘Miracle’ diet pill reduces food cravings, burns calories even while sitting!.

Jab that could help you drop two dress sizes

LONDON – A diet drug that helps women drop two dress sizes in six months could be available in just three years.

The jab has produced “phenomenal” results helping men and women who have struggled with their weight for years shed a stone and a half (or roughly 9.5 kg).
This makes the …. Source article  : Jab that could help you drop two dress sizes.

Two women die after sterilisation in Bihar

PATNA – Two women died after undergoing a sterilisation operation at a primary health centre in Bihar’s Purnia district, police said Monday.

Gunjan Devi, 25, and Somna Devi, 28, died late Saturday soon after the surgery at a sterilisation camp at Barhara Kothi primary health centre in Purnia, about 350 km from here.
“Their family … Read more : Two women die after sterilisation in Bihar.

Paid news syndrome eroding Indian media: Press council

AGARTALA – Stating that the Indian media was “terribly” deviating from its objectives, Press Council of India (PCI) chairman Justice G.N. Roy said here Sunday that the “paid news syndrome” was leading to the erosion of journalism.

“The media in India terribly deviated from its aims and objectives. Trivialization of news is another …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Coming soon: A trap to trick pregnant mosquitoes!

WASHINGTON – Experts are developing an innovative trap to fight dengue fever – using mosquitoes’ motherly instincts.

Researchers at the Tulane University are deploying small devices with just the right mix of chemicals to convince the disease-carrying mosquitoes that they have found the perfect place to lay their eggs.

And once they fly into this lethal …. Original source  : Coming soon: A trap to trick pregnant mosquitoes!.

Our immune system has back-up to fight infection

WASHINGTON – Our immune system has an effective backup plan to protect the body from infection when its “master switch” fails, says a new study.

Our immune system protects the body against infections caused by bugs and viruses, but also causes inflammation which, when uncontrolled, can trigger chronic illnesses such as heart disease, arthritis, …. Original source  : Our immune system has back-up to fight infection.

Health chip to provide instant diagnoses

LONDON – Your family doctor will no longer have to send blood or cancer cell samples to the lab. A little chip will give him test results on the spot.

A blood sample today needs to be submitted to a central lab for analysis, and weeks may pass before results are provided. The same thing … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Health chip to provide instant diagnoses.

A medical tourism company – with end-to-end solutions

CHANDIGARH – With Punjab and its capital Chandigarh attracting an increasing number of overseas patients, most of them NRIs, a group of doctors has floated a medical tourism company to provide end-to-end solutions — including pick-ups from the airport and doctors’ appointments.

Touted to be the first of its kind medical tourism company in northern … Original source on Gaea Times at : A medical tourism company – with end-to-end solutions.

Feeling guilty about eating too much butter? Don’t – it’s good for you

LONDON – It’s holiday season and that means rich and butter-laden food – cookies, pudding, cakes – almost every other dish; so should you feel guilty every time you take a bite?

Contrary to what health Nazis say about butter, it’s actually good for you, say some health experts.

While it is true that we sometimes … Original source on Gaea Times at : Feeling guilty about eating too much butter? Don’t – it’s good for you.

‘Miracle’ diet drug ‘linked to deaths of thousands’ in France

LONDON – A new official report has revealed that a ‘miracle’ diet drug prescribed to French people may have killed thousands.

Since its launch in 1979, Mediator was prescribed to up to five million people until it was banned last year. It was also used as an appetite-suppressing drug by thousands of healthy men and …. Source article  : ‘Miracle’ diet drug ‘linked to deaths of thousands’ in France.

DNA test urged to determine if Lincoln’s assassin escaped death

LONDON – Descendants of John Wilkes Booth have agreed to exhume his body for DNA testing in an attempt to determine whether the assassin of President Abraham Lincoln escaped his well-recorded shooting death and lived for 40 years in Texas and Oklahoma.

Booth killed the 16th President of the United States on April 14, 1865, just …. Original article  : DNA test urged to determine if Lincoln’s assassin escaped death.

Over 2,700 dead in Haiti from cholera

Port-au-Prince, Dec 28 (IANS/EFE) At least 2,707 people have died in Haiti in the cholera epidemic that has affected the impoverished country since mid-October, according to figures released Monday by the public health ministry.

The bulletin said that another 128,251 people have been affected by the disease, of whom 68,764 were hospitalised, though 66,876 of …. Source article  : Over 2,700 dead in Haiti from cholera.

Indian girl, 6, is world’s youngest yoga trainer!

LONDON – An Indian girl, Shruti Pandey, who is just six years old, has become the youngest yoga trainer in the world.

The bendy youngster has been teaching adults at an ashram, in northern India, for the last two years.

Her trainer, Hari Chetan, 67, set up the ashram 35 years ago and as soon as little …. Original source  : Indian girl, 6, is world’s youngest yoga trainer!.

Warming up before training improves athletic performance

SAARBRUECKEN – Athletes who warm up before training perform better and are less likely to injure themselves, notes Sven Fikenzer, a sport scientist at the German University of Applied Sciences for Prevention and Health Management.

He said that warming up the body loosens tense muscles and increased both blood supply to tendons and lubrication of …. Original article  : Warming up before training improves athletic performance.

New method for testing foetus genes could end miscarriage risks

HONG KONG – For decades doctors and pregnant women have relied on amniocentesis – taking a sample of DNA from the amniotic fluid – to diagnose certain disorders in unborn babies, despite the risk of triggering a miscarriage.

Now scientists in Hong Kong have made a groundbreaking discovery which will make it possible for doctors …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

How New Year’s Eve can be dangerous for your health

WASHINGTON – New Year’s Eve – a time to enjoy – can be dangerous for your health, say experts.

Experts at the Loyola University Health System have said that the health hazards of too much revelry include drunk walking, fattening holiday drinks and the surprising ways that alcohol is bad for you.

Drunk walking: Research has shown …. Original source  : How New Year’s Eve can be dangerous for your health.

Positive attitude could help you bounce back from illness: Study

LONDON – A positive attitude on life could help you to bounce back from the challenges of ill health, suggests a new study.

Psychologists say that putting on a brave face works even for serious complaints such as arthritis, diabetes and heart conditions.

The study of Britons aged 50 to 90 found that those with resilient personalities … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Positive attitude could help you bounce back from illness: Study.

Bulging waistlines put women at higher cancer risk

LONDON – Women with bulging waistlines are at higher risk of developing cancer, warn experts.

Despite the popular belief that men suffer most from middle-age spread, UK government figures have shown it is actually women with the largest girths.

While only one in three men is wider around the middle than he should be, the rate rises … Read more >>>.

Women with wide waists face higher cancer risk

LONDON – Almost half of women have a higher risk of cancer because of their bulging waistlines.

Most people think men carry more weight around their tummy, but the reality is that women are way out in front.
Forty-four percent of women in England have a large waistline linked to a range of cancers and …. Original article  : Women with wide waists face higher cancer risk.

No charges hike at AIIMS, says health ministry

NEW DELHI – The health ministry Tuesday rejected a media report that the government was set to hike treatment charges at Delhi’s All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), saying the report was “speculative” and a “distortion of facts”.

However, the ministry clarified that it has decided to raise charges for services and procedures … Read more : No charges hike at AIIMS, says health ministry.

Swine flu makes comeback, 20 cases in a week

NEW DELHI – Swine flu has made a comeback with 20 cases and one death being reported from across the country in the week ending Dec 26, the health ministry said Tuesday.

This is against last week’s (Dec 13-19) figures when only one case was reported across the country, according to health ministry’s figures. …. Source  : Swine flu makes comeback, 20 cases in a week.

Obesity and Diabetes can be Triggered by Air Pollutants

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — A recent study has revealed that increased exposure of children to air pollutants can increase the risk of diabetes and obesity.
They also discovered that the pollutants cause increased insulin resistance, which can lead to the development of Type 2 diabetes. The results are based on tests on mice and the …. Original source  : Obesity and Diabetes can be Triggered by Air Pollutants.

Surya Pharma’s arm acquires US’s ActivOn for $22 mn

MUMBAI – Surya Pharmaceuticals Tuesday said its subsidiary has acquired US-based ActivOn, a leading over-the-counter (OTC) analgesic drug brand, for $22 million.

“Surya Pharma’s wholly owned subsidiary, Surya Pharmaceutical (Singapore) Pte Ltd, has acquired ActivOn with global marketing rights,” the company said in a regulatory filing.
The investment will be funded through a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Surya Pharma’s arm acquires US’s ActivOn for $22 mn.

Cooling Caps to Restore Hair in Cancer Patients

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — A new kind of skull caps is claimed to prevent cancer patients from losing their hair during chemotherapy.
The devices are skullcaps, chilled to 41 degrees Fahrenheit (5.6 degrees Celsius), a temperature frigid enough to slow blood flow and keep chemo drugs from getting into hair follicles.
The idea that cooling the …. Original source  : Cooling Caps to Restore Hair in Cancer Patients.

Alcoholism booms in ‘dry’ Pakistan, as does addiction counseling

ISLAMABAD – Despite being banned in Pakistan, alcohol is easily available across the country, prompting rising alcoholism and a growing trade in clinics trying to treat middle-class patients.

Pakistan has been dry for much longer- since 1977- and drinkers risk severe punishment: 80 lashes of the whip under strict Islamic laws, the Guardian reports.

But the law … Original article on : Alcoholism booms in ‘dry’ Pakistan, as does addiction counseling.

Free yoga to unemployed in USA

NEVADA – Due to current high unemployment rates across USA, some yoga studios have reportedly started offering free or discounted yoga classes to the unemployed.

When the national unemployment rate is around 10 percent, it is believed that yoga will help reduce stress, bring calmness, improve concentration and make the unemployed feel good about themselves. Many …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Controlling adipose tissue key to tackling obesity: study

WASHINGTON – A thesis by biologist Aline Jelenkovic from University of the Basque Country found that apart from BMI, the amount of adipose tissue should also be considered in the fight against obesity because it is linked to blood pressure.

According to Jelenkovic the characteristics or phenotypes defining the height, the shape and the adipose tissue [..] Read the original article: here.

Mexican woman gives birth at checkpoint

Mexico City, Dec 30 (IANS/EFE) A drunk-driving checkpoint in the Mexican capital became an improvised delivery room for a 25-year-old pregnant woman, authorities said.

“This is the first occasion where a case like this has occurred in seven years of operating the drunk-driving checkpoints,” the Mexico City Public Safety Office said in a communique Wednesday.
…. Original article  : Mexican woman gives birth at checkpoint.

S. American drug gangs funding al-Qaeda terrorists

SAO PAULO – South American drugs gangs are reportedly providing millions of pounds of funding to al-Qaeda terrorists to ensure the safe passage of cocaine across North Africa and towards Europe.

Islamic rebels familiar with the barren terrain of the Sahara have struck deals under which they provide armed security escorts for drug traffickers in return … Original article on : S. American drug gangs funding al-Qaeda terrorists.

Chandigarh doctors clown around – and get children smiling

CHANDIGARH – Most parents dread taking their children to the doctor. The combination of white coats, medicines and injections is enough to transform even the most angelic toddler into a shrieking tantrum-throwing brat. But doctors at a hospital here have come up with a novel solution to this problem – they dress up as clowns!

…. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Chandigarh doctors clown around – and get children smiling.

Be Positive to Ward Off Common illness

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com — A positive attitude towards life can help you combat against chronic diseases like arthritis, diabetes and heart conditions.
The study of Britons aged 50 to 90 found that those with resilient personalities felt better despite their various aches and pains.
Unfortunately, this inner strength takes years to develop and cannot be turned … Original source on Gaea Times at : Be Positive to Ward Off Common illness.

FDA Recalled Rolf’s Patisserie Desserts

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — The US Food and Drug Administration issued a recall on some of the foods of Rolf’s Patisserie desserts due to food poisoning.
The bacteria which the desserts are infected with are able to cause symptoms that range from vomiting to stomach cramps and they can last anywhere between one to three …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Larger Waistline in Women may Rise Cancer Risk

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — Experts have claimed that women with large waistline are more prone to be attacked by cancer than women who flaunts slim figure. Popular belief suggests that men suffer most from middle-age spread but government figure shows that 44% of women in England having bulging waistline are at risk of cancer … Read : Larger Waistline in Women may Rise Cancer Risk.

70-day diet of ‘biscuits, cakes, fat-laden junk food’ to help you lose weight!

MELBOURNE – Ever thought gobbling fat laden junk food, biscuits, cakes and other high-sugar could help shed those extra kilos? If not, then here’s something you should know-an American professor managed to be leaner, healthier and happier after a 10-week junk-food diet.

After eating sponge cakes, biscuits, some raw vegetables and drinking full fat milk and … Original source on Gaea Times at : 70-day diet of ‘biscuits, cakes, fat-laden junk food’ to help you lose weight!.

Edible vaccine for malaria on way

BANGALORE – A spoonful of genetically modified starch could be a new malaria vaccine if a new strategy that seems to work in mice also performs well in humans.

At present there is no efficient vaccine against malaria, which is caused by the plasmodium parasite. Now researchers from two laboratories in France have successfully vaccinated … Read more : Edible vaccine for malaria on way.

New legal party drugs ‘as dangerous as cocaine’

LONDON – Many teenagers in UK have been admitted to the hospital after taking dangerous new strains of ‘legal highs’, it has emerged.

A report compiled by drugs workers in Cambridge revealed teens are suffering serious illnesses from consuming legal drugs called ‘Diablo’ and ‘Eric 3′.

They gained popularity after the Government banned the drug Meow Meow … Read : New legal party drugs ‘as dangerous as cocaine’.

Consistent exercise linked to lower risk of colon cancer death

WASHINGTON – A new research has found that consistent exercise is associated with a lower risk of dying from colon cancer.

The study, led by researchers at the Siteman Cancer Center at Washington University School of Medicine and Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, is among the first to show that physical activity can make … Read more >>>.

Risk for alcoholism linked to obesity risk: Study

WASHINGTON – Scientists have revealed in a new study that those at risk for alcoholism are also at an increased risk for obesity.

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis noted that the association between a family history of alcoholism and obesity risk has become more pronounced in recent years.

“In addiction research, we …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Risk for alcoholism linked to obesity risk: Study.

Yoga in the snow? Mountaineer challenges Baba Ramdev

LUCKNOW – He’s a mountaineer and a yoga instructor and claims to have performed yoga bare-bodied in Ladakh’s snow-clad mountains at an altitude of over 14,000 ft. And Ajai Kumar Bajpayee has now dared renowned yoga guru Baba Ramdev to match his feat.

Bajpayee, 32, a liaison officer with the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) and … Original article on : Yoga in the snow? Mountaineer challenges Baba Ramdev.

Haryana gives 300 acres land for AIIMS-like institute

CHANDIGARH – The Haryana government Thursday approved the lease of 300 acres of land in the states Jhajjar district for the setting up of a premier medical institute on the lines of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences.

The formal approval for giving the land on lease in Badsa village of Jhajjar district to …. Original article  : Haryana gives 300 acres land for AIIMS-like institute.

Heart Disease risk increases with Poor Response to Anti-anemia Drug

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — Scientists have claimed that patients ith diabetes, kidney disease and anemia who don’t respond to treatment with an anti-anemia drug have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease or death.
This finding suggests that lowering the blood iron levels in the body of the affected patients may reduce the risk. The results …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Malaysian police arrest yoga teacher for detaining girls as sex slaves

SELANGOR – Police in the Malaysian city of Kuala Kubu Baru have arrested a 54-year-old yoga instructor for holding three girls as sex slaves in his house for about a month.

Police raided his house on Wednesday evening and rescued the girls, two of who were aged 16, while the third was aged 20.

It is believed …. Original article  : Malaysian police arrest yoga teacher for detaining girls as sex slaves.