Cigarette use fell in most countries over the past three decades, but increased in some nations, notably China, a new global study says. Researchers analyzed data from 71 countries that represent 85% of the world’s population and account for more than 95% of global cigarette use. While overall cigarette use declined, there were significant differences… read on >
(HealthDay News) — The body relies on many systems to coordinate balance, says KidsHealth. The ears, eyes, joints and muscles all work together to keep a person steady and upright. Without good balance, simple activities, such as walking, riding a bike or doing school work, can be difficult and frustrating. Signs of balance disorders may… read on >
Most Americans think they won’t get caught driving while high on marijuana, a new AAA Foundation survey finds. Nearly 70% of the nearly 2,600 licensed drivers polled think there’s a low chance that a driver using pot will be stopped by police. “Marijuana can significantly alter reaction times and impair a driver’s judgment,” said David… read on >
Many parents of lesbian, gay or bisexual (LGB) children take years to adjust after learning about their sexual orientation, a new study finds. The study included more than 1,200 parents of LGB youth aged 10 to 25. The parents visited a website with LGB resources and were asked to complete a questionnaire. Of those parents,… read on >
Neck pain can sneak up on you over time. While it can be caused by an accident or injury, your everyday posture and body mechanics can also be to blame, from the way you carry a shoulder bag, cradle your phone while multitasking or sit at your desk. These tips will help you better protect… read on >
Many aging Americans have the common heart rhythm disorder known as atrial fibrillation, or “a-fib.” Now comes the sobering news that it might raise their odds for dementia. The Korean study couldn’t prove cause and effect, but researchers noted that the link between a-fib and dementia was found even among people who hadn’t suffered a… read on >
Drug overdoses and suicide are common causes of death among women who die within a year of giving birth, a new study finds. In fact, in the study based on data from California, these two causes accounted for nearly 20% of postpartum deaths from 2010 to 2012. “These deaths are rare but devastating for families,”… read on >
A combination of depression and genetic risk may fuel an addiction to indoor tanning. That’s the conclusion of a new study out of Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center in Washington, D.C. For the study, researchers surveyed nearly 300 women who used indoor tanning beds, sunlamps or sun booths, and analyzed DNA samples. The women were… read on >
(HealthDay News) — More than 3 million people in the U.S. have some form of epilepsy, says the Epilepsy Foundation of Eastern Pennsylvania. Seizures can last from seconds to minutes, and can cause convulsions. For convulsion-inducing seizures, here are suggestions for general first aid: Cushion the head and remove any glasses. Loosen tight clothing. Turn… read on >
Take a stroll down the beauty products aisle and you’ll see rows of colorful packages, even some with pictures of fruit on them. It’s easy to see how about a dozen kids a day end up in the emergency room due to exposure to these enticing chemical concoctions. Over a 15-year period, nearly 65,000 youngsters… read on >
