Health (General) – Weekly Newsletter for February 7-14, 2011

Monday, February 14, 2011

This robot will be elderly people’s caregiver

WELLINGTON – A company in New Zealand has developed a robot that reminds the aged people about their medication, monitors their vital signs, and will soon be able to entertain them too while encouraging exercise and mobility.

Christchurch-based gaming company Stickmen Studios has developed a game – Kung Fu Funk – that can help … Read more >>>.

Allergies cut risk of low and high-grade glioma

WASHINGTON – University of Illinois researchers have found that allergies lower the risk of developing low and high-grade glioma.

The researchers used self-reported data on medically diagnosed allergies and antihistamine use for 419 patents with glioma and 612 cancer-free patients from Duke University and NorthShore University HealthSystem.

“Other studies have found a correlation between allergies and glioma … Original source on Gaea Times at : Allergies cut risk of low and high-grade glioma.

Chocolate healthier than many fruit juices

WASHINGTON – Chocolate is healthier than many fruit juices and is a ’superfood’ in its own right, says a new study conducted by a US-based chocolate company.

Superfoods are high in anti-oxidants and compounds that help prevent damage to healthy cells.
Researchers from the Hershey Centre for Health & Nutrition in the US …. Read the original article : Chocolate healthier than many fruit juices.

Now, a universal vaccine that kills all strains of flu virus

LONDON – Oxford University scientists have successfully tested a universal flu vaccine that could work against all known strains of the illness.

The treatment-using a new technique and tested for the first time on humans infected with flu-targets a different part of the flu virus to traditional vaccines, meaning it does not need expensive reformulation every … Read more »».

New 27 Pounds L’oreal face cream ‘first to get to the roots of wrinkles’

LONDON – A new anti-wrinkle cream that can take years off your face is about to go on sale for 27 pounds after receiving the backing by scientists.

Most anti-wrinkle creams on the market these days have collagen – the skin-plumping protein said to smooth out laugh lines and crow’s feet.

But what if it was possible …. Source : New 27 Pounds L’oreal face cream ‘first to get to the roots of wrinkles’.

Army chief, Antony’s wife join cancer awareness march

NEW DELHI – A group of children who have survived the deadly cancer took out an awareness march here Sunday, with Defence Minister A.K. Antony’s wife Elizabeth and army Chief General Vijay Kumar Singh joining in to express solidarity.

General Singh was accompanied by his wife Bharti Singh in the two-km march. The youngest … Original article on : Army chief, Antony’s wife join cancer awareness march.

Shot for preventing genital warts works in men

WASHINGTON – A vaccine for human papillomavirus (HPV), which can be transmitted by sexual contract, prevents 90 percent of genital warts in men.

A four-year clinical trial and double-blind study that included 4,065 healthy men aged 16-26 years, spanning 71 sites in 18 countries, provides the first reported results of using the HPV vaccine …. Source : Shot for preventing genital warts works in men.

Three ingredients to ease life of asthmatic kids

WASHINGTON – Eliminating distractions like cell phones and TV, involving behaviour control such as mild discipline and allowing communication that shows genuine interest and concern are the ways to ease the lives of asthmatic children.

University of Illinois Family Resiliency Centre director Barbara H. Fiese and her colleagues videotaped 200 families that included children aged …. Original source : Three ingredients to ease life of asthmatic kids.

Over 40,000 childhood cancer cases in India every year: Experts

NEW DELHI – Over 40,000 cases of cancer in children are being reported in India every year, experts said here Sunday, adding that only a fraction of them manage to receive proper treatment.

The number of cases of childhood cancer is increasing in India. Of the 40,000 that is reported, only 20-30 percent …. Read the original article : Over 40,000 childhood cancer cases in India every year: Experts.

Dogs can sniff out prostate cancer in urine samples

LONDON – Dogs can sniff out chemicals released in urine by prostate tumours, thus opening up a new method for their early detection.

These chemicals have distinct odours that dogs can pick up, says a new study, led by Jean-Nicolas Cornu of Tenon Hospital and colleagues in Paris.
Cornu’s team trained a Belgian Malinois, …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Dogs can sniff out prostate cancer in urine samples.

Therapy to prevent heart failure more beneficial for women than men

WASHINGTON – Women receive a significantly greater benefit – a 70 percent reduction in heart failure and a 72 percent reduction in death – from cardiac resynchronization therapy with defibrillator (CRT-D) than men, according to a new study.

“In prior cardiac studies, men and women generally received similar benefit from preventive medical therapy,” said cardiologist Arthur …. Read the original article : Therapy to prevent heart failure more beneficial for women than men.

US girl eats five soaps a week

LONDON – A 19-year-old girl in the US is getting treatment for her addiction of eating soaps and detergent powders.

Tempestt Henderson, from Florida, eats up to five bars of soap a week and washing powder as well, the Daily Mail reported here.
According to doctors, the toxic compulsion is a rare medical condition, PICA, … Read : US girl eats five soaps a week.

How chocolates protect against heart disease

WASHINGTON – With Valentine’s day round the corner, it’s that time of the year when chocolate-giving and chocolate-taking is at its peak, and scientists have shed light on how this can keep you away from heart diseases.

Scientists have found that this treat boosts the body’s production of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL)-the ‘good’ form of cholesterol … Read more >>.

Outdoor exercise healthier than gym workouts: Study

LONDON – A new study has found that going for a run outdoors is better than exercising in the gym because it has a positive impact on mental, as well as physical health.

The study found that exercise in natural environments was linked to greater feelings of revitalization, … Read more »»».

Caring robot to keep Kiwi elderly entertained

CHRISTCHURCH – Christchurch-based gaming company Stickmen Studios has developed a game – Kung Fu Funk – that can help rehabilitate people who have suffered brain injuries.

Stickmen Studios and the University of Auckland have teamed up to customize a robot with gaming facilities that will help elderly people stay … Read more »»».

US Surgeon General approves of Obama’s fat-filled Super Bowl party

NEW YORK – President Barack Obama’s fat-filled Super Bowl party was approved by the U.S. Surgeon General at an event celebrating the White House’s war on childhood obesity.

The White House had served bratwurst, kielbasa, cheeseburgers, deep-dish pizza, Buffalo wings and beer to Obama’s 100 guests gathered for the Steelers-Packers showdown.

“The President is allowed to do …. Read the original article : here.

Loneliness ‘ups risk of inflammatory diseases’

WASHINGTON – A new study has revealed that chronically lonely people may be at higher risk for certain types of inflammatory disease because their feelings of social isolation trigger the activity of pro-inflammatory immune cells.

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) researchers analyzed 93 older adults for the study.

They screened for gene function among different types … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Loneliness ‘ups risk of inflammatory diseases’.

DMAE Cream In Spotlight

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- There are a huge number of anti aging skincare products in the market and they are mostly sought after by people who want to retain their youthful looks even when they are past their prime. This explains why a number of skincare companies earn huge revenues every year selling their cosmetics …. Source article : DMAE Cream In Spotlight.

Chocolate Can Worsen Acne?

NEW ORLEANS (GaeaTimes.com)- Chocolate may have some health benefits for human beings but it can also have side effects on skin as a new study points out. Those who have sensitive and acne prone skin should not eat much chocolate to avoid more acne appearing on their skin. The study was conducted on a …. Read the original article : Chocolate Can Worsen Acne?.

Dogs could be the key to getting sedentary teens off the couch

WASHINGTON – A new study on dog ownership and adolescent physical activity has revealed that the key to get your sedentary teen off the couch is bringing a ‘fun loving’, ‘furry’ dog home.

“You can think of your dog not only as your best friend, but also a social support tool for being active,” said John … Read more >>>.

Michelle Obama to take ‘Let’s Move!’ anti-obesity drive global

NEW YORK – US First Lady Michelle Obama wants to take her signature campaign to reduce childhood obesity to a bigger audience.

During a wide-ranging luncheon interview with reporters, Michelle said she intended to spend part of the coming years shaping a more international message, with a possible focus on issues of maternal and child health. …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Michelle Obama defends ‘fattening’ White House Super Bowl party menu

WASHINGTON – US First Lady Michelle Obama, who has been campaigning against childhood obesity for a year now, has defended the decision to serve bratwurst, cheeseburgers and deep dish pizza at the White House Super Bowl party over the weekend.

“I think I’ve always been very consistent on that front because that’s how I live my … Read more >>>.

E-ciggies ‘are a promising tool to help smokers quit’

WASHINGTON – A new study has found that electronic cigarettes are a promising tool to help smokers quit, producing six-month abstinence rates nearly double those for traditional nicotine replacement products.

The study, led by Boston University School of Public Health (BUSPH) researchers, found that 31 percent of respondents reported having quit smoking six months after first …. Original article : E-ciggies ‘are a promising tool to help smokers quit’.

Lack of sleep ‘ups risk of colon cancer’

WASHINGTON – A groundbreaking new study has found that lack of sleep is associated with an increase risk of colon cancer.

Lack of sleep has been already linked with higher risks of obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and death.

Researchers from University Hospitals (UH) Case Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine found that individuals … Original source on Gaea Times at : Lack of sleep ‘ups risk of colon cancer’.

Chocolate’s Health Benefits Emerge!

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- The chocolate lovers have reasons to feel happy about. A group of US researchers have found out that the dark chocolate has significant health benefits and the advantages exceed what one can get from fresh fruits. The research has revealed that dark chocolate contains a large amount of antioxidants and …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Chocolate’s Health Benefits Emerge!.

Breakthrough can reduce heart failure in cancer patients

LONDON – A breakthrough could help reduce heart failure among cancer patients worldwide and increase survival rates, researchers claim.

Scientists at the Centre for Vision and Vascular Science, Queen’s University Belfast, have discovered the role of an enzyme which, when a patient receives chemotherapy, can cause serious damage to the heart.
This has, … Read more >>.

Walking in the park is the key to better health

WASHINGTON – Penn State researchers have said that the payoff for investing in public parks and recreation sites may be healthier, more physically fit residents and a less strained healthcare system.

Geof Godbey, professor emeritus of leisure studies, and Andrew Mowen, associate professor of recreation and parks management, said that investments in parks and recreational services …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Walking in the park is the key to better health.

Diet soda ups risk of vascular events; high salt intake linked to stroke

WASHINGTON – Two separate studies have found that drinking diet soda may raise odds of vascular events and high salt consumption is associated with risk of ischemic strokes.

Scientists say even if you drink diet soda – instead of the sugar variety – you could still have a much higher risk of vascular events compared to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Diet soda ups risk of vascular events; high salt intake linked to stroke.

Brain tumour treated with minimal invasive surgery

NEW DELHI – Deweshwar Kumar, 77, had lost all hope after a sudden loss of consciousness was attributed to a large blood clot in his brain. Chances of survival were low and his condition deteriorated. But his life was saved thanks to minimal invasive neuroendoscopy.

“The blood clot caused a pressure effect in the patient’s … Read more >>.

Eating cheese every day ‘could increase bladder cancer risk’

LONDON – New research suggests that a daily helping of cheese could increase the risk of bladder cancer.

Eating more than 53g – roughly the same size as a small chocolate bar – raises the chance of the disease by 50 per cent.

On the other hand, a daily portion of olive oil, can more than halve …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Eating cheese every day ‘could increase bladder cancer risk’.

Protein that turns off stress identified

LONDON – How does the body recover from responding to shock or acute stress? This question is at the heart of a research which has identified a protein family central to the brain’s stress coping mechanism.

The study, based on mice, was conducted by Alon Chen, neurobiologist at the Weizmann Institute of Sciences in Israel. … Read more »»».

Americans favour health care law repeal by double-digit margin: Poll

ISLAMABAD – Less than a year after the Obama administration passed the health care law, most voters still favour repealing the overhaul by a double-digit margin, a new poll has found.

Fox News quoted a Rasmussen Reports poll as … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Americans favour health care law repeal by double-digit margin: Poll.

Late to bed, early to rise way to heart attack

LONDON – Sleeping for less than six hours a night boosts the risk of dying from a heart attack or stroke.

But beware — those who have too much sleep are also more likely to suffer a heart attack, the European Heart journal warned.
While the extra slumber is unlikely to be the cause, long-term … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Late to bed, early to rise way to heart attack.

High school students in Oz grow up to be heart attack victims: Study

MELBOURNE – A survey of secondary students in Australia has revealed that teens of today will end up being victims of heart attack in the future.

The largest survey of Australian secondary students in 25 years has revealed a “chronic disease time bomb”, with laid-back exercise habits and poor diets as the norm.

The survey took in …. Source article on Gaea Times at : High school students in Oz grow up to be heart attack victims: Study.

Extra cheese could raise bladder cancer risk

LONDON – Beware, munching on extra helpings of cheese could up your risk of bladder cancer.

Scientists have found that the risk increased by more than 50 percent in those who ate more than 53 grams of cheese daily, roughly the same weight as a small chocolate bar.
But eating less than that did not …. Original source : Extra cheese could raise bladder cancer risk.

Americans split over GOP efforts to repel Obama administration’s health care law: Poll

WASHINGTON – Although most American voters are in support of the “old” health care system, a majority of them believe that opponents of President Obama’s historic 2010 health care law will fail to repeal it, a latest Fox News poll has found.

By a 48-42 percent margin, more voters would rather go back to the health …. Original article : Americans split over GOP efforts to repel Obama administration’s health care law: Poll.

Go for dark chocolate, red wine to keep your partner heart-healthy this Valentine’s

WASHINGTON – Want to keep your true love’s heart beating strong? Then serve dark chocolate and red wine instead of oysters and the champagne this Valentine’s Day.

If you want to keep your true love’s heart beating strong, Susan Ofria, clinical nutrition manager at Gottlieb Memorial Hospital, says the real food of love is dark … Original source on Gaea Times at : Go for dark chocolate, red wine to keep your partner heart-healthy this Valentine’s.

Breast pumps, lactation supplies are now tax deductible in US

NEW YORK – Unlike India, where there are no rebates whatsoever on life-saving drugs, even breast pumps and lactation supplies are tax deductible in the US.

The Internal Revenue Service’s new ruling has designated the items as ‘medical expenses,’ meaning families can use pre-tax funds from their flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts to pay [..] Read the original article: here.

Fructose does not increase food intake or impact weight: Extensive study

WASHINGTON – Fructose does not increase food intake or impact body weight or blood triglycerides in overweight or obese individuals, according to a new comprehensive review.

The review examined data regarding the normal consumption of fructose and any subsequent development of alterations in lipid or and/or glucose metabolism or weight gain in overweight people.

Researchers were …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Fructose does not increase food intake or impact weight: Extensive study.

Now, collagen meals to help banish those unwanted wrinkles

LONDON – A restaurant in London is offering age-conscious diners, meals that contain collagen, the protein that gives skin its strength and elasticity.

Such restaurants melt down chunks of collagen, which is a popular menu choice in Japan, and mix them into meat and fish dinners, in the hopes that it will help customers banish wrinkles … Original source on Gaea Times at : Now, collagen meals to help banish those unwanted wrinkles.

Green LED products contain lead, arsenic

WASHINGTON – Light-emitting diodes (LeDs) marketed as environment-friendly and safe actually contain lead, arsenic and a dozen other hazardous substances, research shows.

“LeDs are touted as the next generation of lighting…We have to be vigilant about the toxicity hazards of those marketed as replacements,” said Oladele Ogunseitan, professor of population health at the University of …. Source : Green LED products contain lead, arsenic.

Do chinks in brain make you ill at ease?

WASHINGTON – Why do some people fret over the most trivial matters while others remain calm in the face of calamity? Researchers blame it on chinks in the brain.

Researchers at the University of California-Berkeley have identified two different chinks in our brain circuitry that explain why some of us are more prone to anxiety.
… Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Do chinks in brain make you ill at ease?.

Hyderabad to host national cardiology meet

HYDERABAD – The third edition of ‘Prevent India 2011′, a national programme on preventing diseases of the heart and blood vessels, will be held here from Feb 19, a statement said.

Medwin Heart Foundation is hosting the three-day event on preventive cardiology where eminent doctors will deliberate on ‘when and how’ to control the cardiovascular … Read more >>>.

Doctors warn of catastrophic consequences from using Dr Google

WELLINGTON – Doctors have issued warnings over the usage of Dr Google to make a self-diagnosis, saying it could lead to catastrophic consequences.he warning comes as it was revealed that four in five Australians are turning to the web for health information and nearly half of those are using Dr Google.

Leading GPs say people are … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Doctors warn of catastrophic consequences from using Dr Google.

Woman given 6 weeks to live after 1998 cancer diagnosis still going strong

LONDON – A woman who was given just weeks to live after her cancer diagnosis has stunned doctors by surviving for another 13 years -and is still going strong.

Mother-of-two Sue Wigg, 56, from West Sussex, was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 1998 after cancerous tumours were found in her liver and brain, reports the Daily … Read more >>.

Marijuana use could lead to sexual dysfunction in men

WASHINGTON – A new study on the effects of marijuana on sexual health has suggested that men could be courting sexual dysfunction from smoking it.

Study researcher Rany Shamloul, a physician with appointments at the University of Ottawa and Queen’s University in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Marijuana use could lead to sexual dysfunction in men.

‘Leftover’ Chinese singles are in the grip of depression

NEW DELHI – China’s first mental health survey has revealed that more than 70 percent of urban Chinese singles getting nearer to their “expiry date” for marriage are in the grip of depression.

These “leftover” men and women, as they are called in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Leftover’ Chinese singles are in the grip of depression.

Haryana to recruit 400 doctors

CHANDIGARH – The Haryana government has begun the process to recruit 400 doctors for its hospitals.

Besides, all vacant posts of doctors and medical staff will be filled in the coming months.
“For speedy recruitment, the process has been brought out of the purview of the Haryana Public Service Commission and a special committee has …. Source article : Haryana to recruit 400 doctors.

Young music fans with ‘iPod-itis’ at greater risk of going deaf

LONDON – Youngsters who are ‘emotionally attached’ to playing their music at full blast on their music players are in for a rude shock.

A doctor has revealed that a whole generation of music fans are suffering from ‘iPod-itis’ – ringing in the ears – from playing music too …. Source article : Young music fans with ‘iPod-itis’ at greater risk of going deaf.

3-yr-old NY boy living despite a ‘vanishing brain’!

WASHINGTON – A 3-year-old boy from New York has surprised doctors as he is living on an apparently ‘disappearing brain.’

His brain is missing a cerebellum – the part of the brain responsible for motor control, balance, coordination [..] Read the original article: here.

When it took 15 people to shift man to hospital

LONDON – At least 15 muscular firemen and ambulance staff had a tough time shifting a man from his house to a nearby hospital in Britain, as he weighed 190 kg.

Paramedics were called to the home of Alexander Sutherland-Jones, 38, when he became ill with a viral infection. But they were unable to … Read more : When it took 15 people to shift man to hospital.

Delhi doctors remove 7 kg ovarian tumour

NEW DELHI – An ovarian tumor weighing 7 kg was successfully removed by doctors in a city hospital in a four-hour long surgery, hospital officials said Friday.

The 45-year-old woman was admitted to the Action Cancer Hospital in Paschim Vihar area of west Delhi Jan 27 following complaints of abdominal distension and the doctors … Original article on : Delhi doctors remove 7 kg ovarian tumour.

Tool predicts death probability from stroke

TORONTO – Researchers have developed a new tool that will help doctors predict death probability in patients after an ischemic stroke.

An ischemic stroke, the most common type of stroke, occurs when an artery to the brain is blocked. The tool is the first to use risk factors such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer …. Source : Tool predicts death probability from stroke.

Mizoram campaigns for ’smoking free’ state

AIZAWL – In a state where more than half of the population smokes, the Mizoram government Friday intensified its efforts to make the state a “smoking-free” zone.

Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla said: “The state is slowly moving towards becoming a smoking-free state.”
According to state government records, Mizoram topped the country eight years ago …. Source article : Mizoram campaigns for ’smoking free’ state.

Divorced women do care for ex-spouses in illness

WASHINGTON – Divorced women do care for their former spouses, offering support, assistance with daily tasks and management of health needs, says a new study.

“Some women reported caregiving as a turning point in relationships with their ex-husbands,” said Teresa Cooney, study author and associate professor at the University of Missouri College of Human … Read : Divorced women do care for ex-spouses in illness.

Bionic arm that relies on mind power to work

LONDON – In a chapter straight out of sci-fi, scientists have fashioned a bionic arm by connecting nerves from an amputee’s stump to his chest muscles to make it work seemingly on mind power.

When the amputee wishes to move his chest muscles, the signals are picked up by the nerves previously connected to the … Read more »».

Camel ciggies maker forced to pay $260K to smoker who developed cancer

LONDON – Camel cigarettes maker R.J. Reynolds has been forced to pay more than 260,000 dollars in damages to an elderly man who developed cancer from smoking.

Leroy Kirkland had sought damages of more than 10 billion dollars from the company, which is the largest award ever sought by an individual, but he settled for 260,000 …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Camel ciggies maker forced to pay $260K to smoker who developed cancer.

‘Need to upgrade diagnostic facilities in health sector’

NEW DELHI – Diagnostic facilities and infrastructure need to be upgraded to meet the growing demands of the public health sector, a diagnostic expert said here Sunday.

“Demand for better facilities in diagnostic care is increasing with times. When we talk of efficient healthcare facilities, it’s very important to consider diagnostic care as a major … Read more >>.

Srinagar’s ‘dogged’ problem giving nightmares

SRINAGAR – Is Srinagar going to the dogs? Packs of ferocious canines nip at the heels of the devout at the entrance of mosques, chase students on way to tuition, and bark raucously at people taking an evening stroll. The pretty city’s stray dog population stands at over 100,000 and in four years is estimated … Read more »».

Cancer to be number one killer disease worldwide by 2025: Indian doctors

BHUBANESWAR – Cancer is set to take over as the number one killer disease globally by 2025, doctors at the Indian Cancer Congress said on Saturday.

Jitendra Kumar Singh, Secretary of the Indian Cancer Society, told the gathering in Bhubaneswar, Orissa, that cancer would knock heart disease from the top spot soon.

“By 2025, cancer …. Original source : Cancer to be number one killer disease worldwide by 2025: Indian doctors.