Even though they know it’s dangerous, many American drivers still talk on a cellphone or text while behind the wheel, a new survey finds. In fact, the number of drivers who say they talk regularly or fairly often on their cellphone while driving has actually risen 46 percent since 2013, the pollsters say. More than… read on >
Medical care costs in the United States can be so overwhelming that Americans fear the cost of treatment more than the illness itself, a new poll shows. “It’s shocking and unacceptable that medical bills strike more fear in the hearts of Americans than serious illness,” said Shelley Lyford. She is president and CEO of West… read on >
Ovarian cancer can be tough to beat, particularly if it returns after initial treatment, but new research offers a glimmer of hope. One study found that a new targeted “immunotherapy” to treat ovarian cancer that has come back looked promising in a small, early trial. Meanwhile, a second team of researchers discovered what appears to… read on >
Ear pain while flying is most often caused by changes in air pressure that cause the ear’s Eustachian tubes to compensate by opening wider or narrowing. The American Academy of Otolaryngology suggests how to deal with ear pain caused by changes in altitude: Consult with your doctor on how soon after ear surgery it is… read on >
Most people today simply aren’t as active as people were decades ago. You can blame technology for some of that. The conveniences of modern living have taken away many chances to burn calories. Homes, office buildings and even some public spaces have been modernized in ways that require people to be less physically active throughout… read on >
Stigma surrounding Alzheimer’s disease may discourage Americans from learning about their risk and from joining clinical trials for potential new treatments, a small survey reveals. “We found that concerns about discrimination and overly harsh judgments about the severity of symptoms were most prevalent,” lead researcher Shana Stites said in an Alzheimer’s Association news release. “By… read on >
Advances in medical technology sometimes come with drawbacks, and in the case of electronic health records, a new study suggests these systems occasionally put patients at risk. “There’s no question that electronic health records have clear benefits for clinicians and patients, and can improve the care process,” said senior author Raj Ratwani. He is director… read on >
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s decision late last year to delay a review of electronic cigarettes and cigars is unlawful and a threat to public health, according to a lawsuit launched by seven medical and public health groups, as well as five individual pediatricians. According to the groups, the FDA’s decision to delay the… read on >
Besides staying alert, coffee lovers who drink more than three cups of java a day may lower their risk for clogged arteries, a new Brazilian study suggests. Scientists surveyed more than 4,400 residents of Sao Paulo about their coffee-drinking habits, and correlated them with coronary artery calcium (CAC) readings. CAC scans look for signs of… read on >
Raw fruit and vegetables provide vital nutrients and vitamins. But they may also harbor harmful germs, such as Salmonella andE. coli. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests how to select and store fruit and vegetables: Select producethat doesn’t look bruised or damaged. Keep precut fruit and vegetables cold.Refrigerate it or keep it on… read on >
