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Health Tip
Recovering From C-Section
November 19, 2009
What new moms can expect Cesarean section is a surgical alternative to vaginal birth. After this surgery, the new mom needs time to recover.
The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers this list of what moms who have delivered by cesarean can expect:
You'll have an incision in your abdomen, which may feel sore for a few weeks.
The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers this list of what moms who have delivered by cesarean can expect:
You'll have an incision in your abdomen, which may feel sore for a few weeks.
MS Need Not Preclude Pregnancy
November 18, 2009
Study finds complications no greater overall than for other women. New research suggests that having multiple sclerosis puts pregnant women at slightly higher risk for giving birth via cesarean deliveries or having babies that grow at a slower rate in the womb.
But the researchers, whose findings were published online Nov. 18 in Neurology, also reported that pregnant women with MS were not more likely than other women to develop such conditions as preeclampsia or premature rupture of membranes.
But the researchers, whose findings were published online Nov. 18 in Neurology, also reported that pregnant women with MS were not more likely than other women to develop such conditions as preeclampsia or premature rupture of membranes.
Late Preterm Births Increasing in U.S.
November 18, 2009
Reasons for early births vary, but all premature babies face higher risks, experts warn. The percentage of babies born preterm in the United States rose by more than 20 percent from 1990 to 2006, most delivered at the end of the preterm period, federal health officials report.
Every day in the United States, more than 900 of these "late preterm" births occur, adding up to 333,461 a year, according to the report, Born A Bit Too Early: Recent Trends in Late Preterm Births, issued by the U.S.
Every day in the United States, more than 900 of these "late preterm" births occur, adding up to 333,461 a year, according to the report, Born A Bit Too Early: Recent Trends in Late Preterm Births, issued by the U.S.
Pregnancy Complication May Be Linked to Thyroid Problems
November 18, 2009
Women with preeclampsia are more likely to have reduced thyroid function, study finds. New research offers bad news for women who develop a condition known as preeclampsia during pregnancy: They're at higher risk of reduced thyroid function and may be more likely to have thyroid problems in later life.
Preeclampsia develops in the second half of pregnancy and can cause serious problems such as extremely high blood pressure. The causes aren't clear, but may have something to do with high levels of proteins in the body.
Preeclampsia develops in the second half of pregnancy and can cause serious problems such as extremely high blood pressure. The causes aren't clear, but may have something to do with high levels of proteins in the body.
Folic Acid Fortification Might Boost Cancer Risk
November 17, 2009
Norwegian study found supplementation raised chances of disease by 21%. Although folic acid fortification of foods can prevent many birth defects, it may also increase the risk for developing cancer, Norwegian researchers report.
Since 1998, many countries have mandated folic acid (vitamin B9) fortification of foods to decrease the incidence of neural-tube defects in newborns. By October 2009, the flour produced in these countries, plus the flour that is fortified voluntarily, represented 30 percent of the world's wheat flour produced in large mills.
Since 1998, many countries have mandated folic acid (vitamin B9) fortification of foods to decrease the incidence of neural-tube defects in newborns. By October 2009, the flour produced in these countries, plus the flour that is fortified voluntarily, represented 30 percent of the world's wheat flour produced in large mills.
Viagra Helpful for Children With Heart Defect
November 17, 2009
Pumping ability improved with sildenafil in study group. The erectile dysfunction drug sildenafil, commonly known as Viagra, boosts the heart's pumping ability in children and young adults who've had the Fontan operation to correct single-ventricle heart defects, researchers report.
In the Fontan operation, doctors direct venous blood directly to the pulmonary arteries, bypassing the heart. The procedure is the third surgery in staged reconstruction for children with single-ventricle defects, explained the researchers from the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia in a news release from the American Heart Association.
In the Fontan operation, doctors direct venous blood directly to the pulmonary arteries, bypassing the heart. The procedure is the third surgery in staged reconstruction for children with single-ventricle defects, explained the researchers from the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia in a news release from the American Heart Association.
'Fearless' 3-Year-Olds Might Be Tomorrow's Criminals
November 17, 2009
20-year study finds adults with records were more likely as tots to not be afraid. Children who are fearless at 3 years of age might just be poised for a life of crime.
According to a new study, poor fear conditioning at the tender age of 3 can predispose that person to break the law as an adult. Yet other factors, such as education of the parents, large family size, nutrition, physical activity, configuration of the household and other elements also play a role, the researchers concluded.
According to a new study, poor fear conditioning at the tender age of 3 can predispose that person to break the law as an adult. Yet other factors, such as education of the parents, large family size, nutrition, physical activity, configuration of the household and other elements also play a role, the researchers concluded.
U.S. Scores a 'D' on Preterm Birth Report Card
November 17, 2009
March of Dimes' annual state-by-state stats show need for improvement. The United States is doing a poor job of reducing preterm births, according to a new report, which found Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana have especially high numbers of early, life-threatening deliveries.
Vermont and New Hampshire were the only states with a preterm birth rate under 10 percent, while in Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi, the premature birth rate ranged from 16.5 to 18.
Vermont and New Hampshire were the only states with a preterm birth rate under 10 percent, while in Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi, the premature birth rate ranged from 16.5 to 18.
Health Tip
When Baby Is Teething
November 17, 2009
Ways to offer some relief When babies are teething, they're generally miserable from the pain, swelling and tenderness in their gums.
Here are suggestions from the Nemours Foundation to help comfort little ones who are teething:
Use a warm, wet cloth to wipe down baby's face and remove any drool. This may help prevent a rash.
Here are suggestions from the Nemours Foundation to help comfort little ones who are teething:
Use a warm, wet cloth to wipe down baby's face and remove any drool. This may help prevent a rash.
Health Tip
Creating Your Birth Plan
November 16, 2009
Make a list of your preferences for delivery There are many things to do to prepare for your baby's birth. That's why establishing a birth plan .
'Love Hormone' May Trigger Jealousy, Too
November 15, 2009
Oxytocin could be inappropriate for use with autism, expert cautions. With a reputation as the "love hormone," oxytocin has been linked to trust, empathy and generosity.
But new research suggests that oxytocin plays a role in jealousy and gloating as well.
"Subsequent to these findings, we assume that the hormone is an overall trigger for social sentiments: When the person's association is positive, oxytocin bolsters pro-social behaviors; when the association is negative, the hormone increases negative sentiments," Israeli researcher Simone Shamay-Tsoory, of the University of Haifa, said in a news release from the university.
But new research suggests that oxytocin plays a role in jealousy and gloating as well.
"Subsequent to these findings, we assume that the hormone is an overall trigger for social sentiments: When the person's association is positive, oxytocin bolsters pro-social behaviors; when the association is negative, the hormone increases negative sentiments," Israeli researcher Simone Shamay-Tsoory, of the University of Haifa, said in a news release from the university.
Kids Kept Indoors Due to Poor Clothing Choices
November 13, 2009
Children without proper attire can prevent their class from playing outdoors, study finds. Inappropriate clothing can limit or prevent young children's outdoor physical activity, a U.S. study has found.
New Understanding of How the Brain Detects Emotion
November 13, 2009
Study findings might further autism research. An area of the brain that responds to both facial and vocal expressions of emotion has been identified by British researchers.
They used a MagnetoEncephaloGraphic (MEG) scanner to analyze brain activity in 19 volunteers who were shown photographs of people with fearful and neutral facial expressions, and listened to fearful and neutral sounds, separately and together.
The University of York team found that responses in the posterior superior temporal sulcus were much greater when the participants could both see and hear the emotional faces and voices, but not when they saw and heard neutral faces and voices.
They used a MagnetoEncephaloGraphic (MEG) scanner to analyze brain activity in 19 volunteers who were shown photographs of people with fearful and neutral facial expressions, and listened to fearful and neutral sounds, separately and together.
The University of York team found that responses in the posterior superior temporal sulcus were much greater when the participants could both see and hear the emotional faces and voices, but not when they saw and heard neutral faces and voices.
Another Swine Flu Vaccine Approved for Children
November 13, 2009
CSL's shot now for ages 6 months and older CSL Limited's H1N1 influenza vaccine has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to include children 6 months and older, the agency said.
Folic Acid Late in Pregnancy Tied to Asthma in Kids
November 13, 2009
But supplements are still recommended in the first trimester, researchers say. Children born to women who take folic acid in late pregnancy are at increased risk for asthma, Australian researchers say.
The University of Adelaide study included more than 500 women whose diet and supplements were assessed during pregnancy. The women's children were checked for asthma at age 3.
The University of Adelaide study included more than 500 women whose diet and supplements were assessed during pregnancy. The women's children were checked for asthma at age 3.
22 Million Sickened by Swine Flu in 6 Months
November 12, 2009
Revised estimation method gives clearer picture of pandemic, CDC says. At least 22 million Americans have come down with the H1N1 swine flu since the virus first surfaced in April and approximately 3,900 people have died, including an estimated 540 children, federal health officials reported Thursday.
While these numbers represent a significant jump in the numbers of sick, hospitalized and dead from previous figures, they don't mean that the swine flu has suddenly gotten worse. Instead, the new numbers are based on extrapolations from laboratory-confirmed cases of swine flu.
While these numbers represent a significant jump in the numbers of sick, hospitalized and dead from previous figures, they don't mean that the swine flu has suddenly gotten worse. Instead, the new numbers are based on extrapolations from laboratory-confirmed cases of swine flu.
Wireless Phones Alter Levels of Brain Chemical
November 12, 2009
Study found elevated amounts of protein involved in blood-brain barrier. Wireless phones have a biological effect on the brain, but it's too early to say whether this poses any health risks, a Swedish medical researcher reports.
Fredrik Soderqvist, of Orebro University, analyzed blood samples from adult wireless phone users and discovered they had elevated levels of a protein called transthyretin, which is found in the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier that protects the brain against harmful substances in the blood system.
The findings indicate that the brain is affected by microwaves from cell phones and other wireless telephones, which may cause other as yet unknown effects, said Soderqvist, who conducted the research as part of his doctoral thesis.
Fredrik Soderqvist, of Orebro University, analyzed blood samples from adult wireless phone users and discovered they had elevated levels of a protein called transthyretin, which is found in the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier that protects the brain against harmful substances in the blood system.
The findings indicate that the brain is affected by microwaves from cell phones and other wireless telephones, which may cause other as yet unknown effects, said Soderqvist, who conducted the research as part of his doctoral thesis.
Older People at Greater Risk of Swine Flu Death
November 12, 2009
Cases in Mexico show young more likely to get sick, but elderly more likely to die. A study of H1N1 swine flu in Mexico finds that while babies and people under the age of 40 are most likely to get sick, elderly people have the highest death rates.
The research, published online Nov. 11 in The Lancet, analyzed medical records of patients at clinics in the Mexican Institute for Social Security network, who became sick with flu-like illnesses between April 28 and July 31, 2009.
The research, published online Nov. 11 in The Lancet, analyzed medical records of patients at clinics in the Mexican Institute for Social Security network, who became sick with flu-like illnesses between April 28 and July 31, 2009.
Boys' Team Sports May Encourage Bad Behavior
November 12, 2009
Male high school athletes more likely to drink and fight than females, study finds. When it comes to teaching healthy behaviors, boys' high school team sports might be doing more harm than thought.
New research suggests that for teenage boys, participation in team sports may encourage unruly behavior such as fighting and binge drinking.
Girls, on the other hand, seem to behave better in organized sports, said the lead researcher, Susan Connor, manager of the injury prevention program at Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital in Cleveland.
New research suggests that for teenage boys, participation in team sports may encourage unruly behavior such as fighting and binge drinking.
Girls, on the other hand, seem to behave better in organized sports, said the lead researcher, Susan Connor, manager of the injury prevention program at Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital in Cleveland.
Dyslexia May Make It Tough to Tune Out School Noise
November 11, 2009
But sitting in front of teacher or using wireless technologies might help, experts say. Students with developmental dyslexia may not be able to focus on the teacher's voice in noisy school settings that include banging lockers, scraping chairs and other auditory distractions, a U.S. study has found.
Health Tip
Symptoms of Postpartum Depression
November 10, 2009
Signs that you should seek help Welcoming a new baby is a happy and exciting time, but it's also full of stress. Postpartum depression affects many new moms, and it's important to recognize the signs and seek treatment.
The American Academy of Family Physicians lists these warning signs of postpartum depression:
Persistent feelings of sadness and crying.
The American Academy of Family Physicians lists these warning signs of postpartum depression:
Persistent feelings of sadness and crying.
Handwriting Skills May Lag in Kids With Autism
November 09, 2009
Therapy to improve letter formation could boost self-esteem, researchers say. Autistic children are more likely to have handwriting problems, including trouble forming letters, than those without autism, researchers say.
The new study included 28 children, aged 8 to 13. Half of the study participants had autism spectrum disorder, but all of the children scored within the normal range for perceptual reasoning on an IQ test.
The new study included 28 children, aged 8 to 13. Half of the study participants had autism spectrum disorder, but all of the children scored within the normal range for perceptual reasoning on an IQ test.
Depressed and Pregnant? Flu Shot May Be Needed
November 09, 2009
Symptoms of seasonal flu could be severe in this group of women, study finds. Pregnant women who are depressed may suffer severe symptoms if they catch seasonal flu, a new study suggests.
Ohio State University researchers assessed depressive symptoms and took blood samples from 22 pregnant women before they received a seasonal flu shot. Those with significant symptoms of depression had a stronger inflammatory response to the flu shot than the other women.
Ohio State University researchers assessed depressive symptoms and took blood samples from 22 pregnant women before they received a seasonal flu shot. Those with significant symptoms of depression had a stronger inflammatory response to the flu shot than the other women.
Good Posture May Inspire Confidence
November 08, 2009
Straight-back, chest-out position promotes self-assurance, research finds. Your mother may have been right when she told you to sit up straight: New research suggests that good posture could make you feel more confident about your thoughts.
"Most of us were taught that sitting up straight gives a good impression to other people," Richard Petty, co-author of the study and a psychology professor at Ohio State University, said in a university news release. "But it turns out that our posture can also affect how we think about ourselves.
"Most of us were taught that sitting up straight gives a good impression to other people," Richard Petty, co-author of the study and a psychology professor at Ohio State University, said in a university news release. "But it turns out that our posture can also affect how we think about ourselves.
Singing in Pregnancy May Be Harder Work
November 06, 2009
As hormones increase, so does the need to exert more pressure from the lungs, researchers say. Hormonal fluctuations make it harder for women to sing during pregnancy, a new study finds.
Many professional singers have difficulty singing while pregnant, but it hasn't been known whether this was because of hormones or other causes, such as decreased lung capacity as the baby grows.
In this study, researchers followed a professionally trained singer through 12 weeks of pregnancy and for 12 weeks after she gave birth.
Many professional singers have difficulty singing while pregnant, but it hasn't been known whether this was because of hormones or other causes, such as decreased lung capacity as the baby grows.
In this study, researchers followed a professionally trained singer through 12 weeks of pregnancy and for 12 weeks after she gave birth.
Breast-Feeding Benefits Moms and Babies
Report
November 06, 2009
Nursing exclusively for six months, then with foods until at least 12 months is ideal, dietitians say. Breast-feeding offers health benefits for infants and mothers, and should be promoted and encouraged, says an updated position paper released by the American Dietetic Association.
"It is the position of the American Dietetic Association that exclusive breast-feeding provides optimal nutrition and health protection for the first 6 months of life, and breast-feeding with complementary foods from 6 months until at least 12 months of age is the ideal feeding pattern for infants. Breast-feeding is an important public health strategy for improving infant and child morbidity and mortality and improving maternal morbidity and helping to control health care costs," the ADA said in a news release.
"It is the position of the American Dietetic Association that exclusive breast-feeding provides optimal nutrition and health protection for the first 6 months of life, and breast-feeding with complementary foods from 6 months until at least 12 months of age is the ideal feeding pattern for infants. Breast-feeding is an important public health strategy for improving infant and child morbidity and mortality and improving maternal morbidity and helping to control health care costs," the ADA said in a news release.
Cooling May Reduce Brain Lesions in Newborns
November 06, 2009
Treatment after oxygen deprivation accounts for better motor skills later, study suggests. Babies who are deprived of oxygen at birth often go on to have lifetime disabilities, but research has shown that cooling infants can help prevent problems.
Now, a new study reports that the cooling actually reduces the number of brain lesions in the babies.
Oxygen starvation at birth can cause a condition called hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, which can be fatal.
Now, a new study reports that the cooling actually reduces the number of brain lesions in the babies.
Oxygen starvation at birth can cause a condition called hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, which can be fatal.
Swine Flu Virus Dominant Strain Worldwide
WHO
November 05, 2009
Agency says pathogen continues to target younger adults, producing mild-to-moderate illness. The H1N1 swine flu virus is now the predominant flu strain worldwide, although it shows no signs of becoming more virulent and continues to produce mild-to-moderate symptoms in most people, the World Health Organization's flu chief said Thursday.
In some countries, the swine flu accounts for up to 70 percent of the flu viruses being sampled, Dr. Keiji Fukuda said during a press briefing, the Associated Press reported.
In some countries, the swine flu accounts for up to 70 percent of the flu viruses being sampled, Dr. Keiji Fukuda said during a press briefing, the Associated Press reported.
Fetus Learns Intonations of Mother's Tongue
November 05, 2009
French, German newborns show crying patterns that mimic parents' language, study finds. Infants who are just a few days old cry with intonation patterns that reflect the language spoken by their parents, new research shows.
The conclusion drawn by German researchers is that fetuses are listening closely to their mothers during the last trimester of pregnancy, laying the groundwork for learning language even before they're born.
By analyzing the sounds of newborn cries, researchers found distinct differences in the intonation patterns of German and French newborns.
The conclusion drawn by German researchers is that fetuses are listening closely to their mothers during the last trimester of pregnancy, laying the groundwork for learning language even before they're born.
By analyzing the sounds of newborn cries, researchers found distinct differences in the intonation patterns of German and French newborns.
New HPV Vaccine Might Stop Vulvar Cancer in its Tracks
November 04, 2009
Working differently than Gardasil, Cervarix, it targets inside of virus, study shows. A vaccine that targets human papillomavirus (HPV) is able to stop precancerous lesions in the vulva from progressing into full-blown malignancies, Dutch researchers report.
Two other vaccines .
Two other vaccines .
Health Tip
Getting Ready for Birth
November 04, 2009
Be prepared before you leave for the hospital The nursery is ready, the tiny outfits washed, and the infant seat is installed in the car.
Not so fast. Before you leave for the hospital, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says you should also make these preparations:
Know your doctor's phone number for any time of day.
Not so fast. Before you leave for the hospital, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says you should also make these preparations:
Know your doctor's phone number for any time of day.
Folate Levels in Pregnancy Tied to ADHD in Offspring
November 03, 2009
Prenatal nutrition seems to affect child's nervous system, brain growth, researchers say. Low folate levels during pregnancy are associated with higher odds for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in offspring aged 7 to 9, new research has found.
The findings seem to support the long-held belief that folate (folic acid) levels in expectant mothers influence their children's nervous system development.
The researchers also found that children of mothers with low folate levels had notably smaller head circumference at birth, which may indicate a slower rate of prenatal brain growth.
The findings seem to support the long-held belief that folate (folic acid) levels in expectant mothers influence their children's nervous system development.
The researchers also found that children of mothers with low folate levels had notably smaller head circumference at birth, which may indicate a slower rate of prenatal brain growth.
CDC Urges Patience As More Swine Flu Shots Arrive
November 03, 2009
Total should near 42 million by week's end; more health-care workers getting vaccine. The United States has 31.8 million H1N1 flu vaccine doses available and is on track to have another 10 million ready by week's end, a federal health official said Tuesday.
So far, that isn't enough to prevent long lines at vaccination centers, but it is consistent with what officials had projected earlier this week.
So far, that isn't enough to prevent long lines at vaccination centers, but it is consistent with what officials had projected earlier this week.
CDC Finds U.S. 30th in Infant Mortality
November 03, 2009
Finding is attributed to country's high rate of premature births. When comparing rates of infant mortality, the United States lags dismally behind most other developed countries, largely because of a disproportionately high number of babies delivered prematurely, according to a new government report.
"The U.S.
"The U.S.
CDC Study Links 2 Antibiotics to Birth Defects
November 03, 2009
No added risk was found, however, for most commonly used infection-fighters. Taking antibiotics during pregnancy does not raise the risk for most birth defects, though there are some exceptions, new research has found.
Penicillin, which is the most commonly used antibiotic during pregnancy, as well as erythromycin, cephalosporins and quinolones, other widely prescribed antibiotics, were not associated with increased risk for about 30 different birth defects.
However, the study found that two types of antibiotics were linked with a higher risk for several birth defects: nitrofurantoins and sulfonamides, sometimes called "sulfa drugs," which are prescribed for urinary tract and other infections.
Penicillin, which is the most commonly used antibiotic during pregnancy, as well as erythromycin, cephalosporins and quinolones, other widely prescribed antibiotics, were not associated with increased risk for about 30 different birth defects.
However, the study found that two types of antibiotics were linked with a higher risk for several birth defects: nitrofurantoins and sulfonamides, sometimes called "sulfa drugs," which are prescribed for urinary tract and other infections.
TV May Increase Aggression in Toddlers
November 02, 2009
The more watched, the more aggressive the behavior, study finds. Yet another study has found that television viewing is linked to aggression in young children.
This research, published in the November issue of the Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, found that direct TV watching by young children or exposure to indirect viewing in the household were both associated with increased aggression in small children.
After controlling the data for other factors, such as maternal depression, living in an unsafe neighborhood and being spanked, "for every hour that a child watched TV directly, aggression went up 0.
This research, published in the November issue of the Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, found that direct TV watching by young children or exposure to indirect viewing in the household were both associated with increased aggression in small children.
After controlling the data for other factors, such as maternal depression, living in an unsafe neighborhood and being spanked, "for every hour that a child watched TV directly, aggression went up 0.
One Dose of Swine Flu Vaccine Works for Pregnant Women
November 02, 2009
Young children need two doses, spaced several weeks apart, U.S. health officials say. Results from ongoing clinical trials confirm that pregnant women need only one dose of the swine flu vaccine, while young children .
At Least 114 U.S. Kids Dead From Swine Flu
October 30, 2009
Two-thirds had chronic health problems, CDC says. At least 114 U.S. children have now died from laboratory-confirmed H1N1 swine flu, including 19 during the past week .
Asians Seem to Suffer Less During Childbirth
October 30, 2009
Length of labor and intensity vary among ethnic groups, study finds. Asian women experience less labor pain than other women, say U.S. researchers.
Veggies in Pregnancy Lowers Child's Diabetes Risk
October 30, 2009
Type 1 less likely in kids whose moms favored these foods, study found. Children born to mothers who ate plenty of vegetables during pregnancy are less likely to have type 1 diabetes, Swedish researchers say.
"This is the first study to show a link between vegetable intake during pregnancy and the risk of the child subsequently developing type 1 diabetes, but more studies of various kinds will be needed before we can say anything definitive," study author Hilde Brekke, a clinical nutritionist at the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, said in a news release from the university.
Brekke and colleagues studied 6,000 5-year-olds and found that 3 percent either had fully developed type 1 diabetes or had elevated levels of antibodies that indicate a risk of developing the disease.
"This is the first study to show a link between vegetable intake during pregnancy and the risk of the child subsequently developing type 1 diabetes, but more studies of various kinds will be needed before we can say anything definitive," study author Hilde Brekke, a clinical nutritionist at the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, said in a news release from the university.
Brekke and colleagues studied 6,000 5-year-olds and found that 3 percent either had fully developed type 1 diabetes or had elevated levels of antibodies that indicate a risk of developing the disease.
Whooping Cough Immunity Lasts 30 Years or More
October 30, 2009
Finding defies belief that resistance wears thin much sooner. Exposure to whooping cough will provide immunity for an average of three decades, new research suggests.
Doctors had previously thought that immunity lasted for much less time. But the new study, by researchers based at the University of Michigan and the University of New Mexico, rebuts that assumption.
Doctors had previously thought that immunity lasted for much less time. But the new study, by researchers based at the University of Michigan and the University of New Mexico, rebuts that assumption.
Flu Shot in Pregnancy Protects Baby
October 30, 2009
Vaccinating expectant moms led to bigger, healthier infants, studies show. Pregnant women head the list of people who should get H1N1 swine flu and seasonal flu shots, and four new studies highlight the benefits of vaccination for moms-to-be and their babies.
Bigger, healthier newborns, fewer preterm births and reduced rates of hospitalization top the findings, which are to be presented this week at the annual meeting of the Infectious Disease Society of America in Philadelphia.
In one study, U.
Bigger, healthier newborns, fewer preterm births and reduced rates of hospitalization top the findings, which are to be presented this week at the annual meeting of the Infectious Disease Society of America in Philadelphia.
In one study, U.
Almost 6 Million U.S. Cases of Swine Flu in First Few Months
October 29, 2009
CDC says H1N1 may be tied to 21,000 hospitalizations during that time. Up to 5.7 million cases of H1N1 swine flu hit the United States between April and July, according to a new estimate from the U.S.
Tamiflu-Resistant Swine Flu Passed Person-to-Person in U.S.
October 29, 2009
Another study shows kids shed virus up to 13 days after fever starts. U.S. researchers say they've spotted the first case of a Tamiflu-resistant H1N1 flu virus passing between two people .
One Embryo as Good as Two in Second IVF Attempt
October 28, 2009
Study found live birth rates similar, fewer multiple births with one embryo. Women undergoing a second round of in-vitro fertilization should get one embryo instead of two, suggests new Swedish research that found the first approach is almost as successful as the second and greatly reduces the risk of multiple births.
A previous study produced the same result, but this latest report examined the women for a longer period of time, through more embryo implantations.
The findings "should provide comfort for those who want to perform single-embryo transfers that the pregnancy rates are equivalent," said Dr.
A previous study produced the same result, but this latest report examined the women for a longer period of time, through more embryo implantations.
The findings "should provide comfort for those who want to perform single-embryo transfers that the pregnancy rates are equivalent," said Dr.
Preventive Antibiotics Help Some Kids Fend Off Urinary Infections
October 28, 2009
Modest reduction may be worthwhile for those most at risk, experts say. Children who are predisposed to recurrent urinary tract infections are commonly treated with preventive antibiotics, and a new Australian study suggests that such prophylactic therapy may have at least a modest effect.
Only 13 percent of youngsters who were given the antibiotic combination of trimethoprim plus sulfamethoxazole (brand names Bactrim and Septra) developed a urinary tract infection while on the medication compared to 19 percent of the children on a placebo, according to the study.
"There was a small benefit across many groups of children, which will be worthwhile in some .
Only 13 percent of youngsters who were given the antibiotic combination of trimethoprim plus sulfamethoxazole (brand names Bactrim and Septra) developed a urinary tract infection while on the medication compared to 19 percent of the children on a placebo, according to the study.
"There was a small benefit across many groups of children, which will be worthwhile in some .
1 Million More Doses of Swine Flu Vaccine on Hand
October 28, 2009
Gap between supply and demand starting to close, U.S. officials say. U.S. officials reported Wednesday the addition of another million doses H1N1 swine flu vaccine, bringing the total so far to 23.
Let Kids Sleep Late on Weekends to Fight Fat
Study
October 28, 2009
Too little shuteye contributes to obesity, researchers say. Letting children sleep late on weekends and holidays might help them avoid becoming overweight or obese, a new study suggests.
Researchers in Hong Kong found that children who got less sleep tended to be heavier (as measured by body mass index, or BMI) than children who slept more. But among children who slept less than eight hours a night, those who compensated for their weekday sleep deficit by sleeping late on weekends or holidays were significantly less likely to be overweight or obese.
Researchers in Hong Kong found that children who got less sleep tended to be heavier (as measured by body mass index, or BMI) than children who slept more. But among children who slept less than eight hours a night, those who compensated for their weekday sleep deficit by sleeping late on weekends or holidays were significantly less likely to be overweight or obese.
Health Tip
Exercise During Pregnancy
October 28, 2009
A list of typical benefits Being pregnant shouldn't give you an excuse to give up on your exercise regimen.
The Nemours Foundation says your doctor should approve any exercise routine while you're pregnant. The foundation says staying fit offers these potential benefits:
Possible relief from common pregnancy symptoms, such as back pain and constipation.
The Nemours Foundation says your doctor should approve any exercise routine while you're pregnant. The foundation says staying fit offers these potential benefits:
Possible relief from common pregnancy symptoms, such as back pain and constipation.
More Swine Flu Vaccine Coming Soon
October 27, 2009
22 million doses out now, and shortage should ease over coming weeks, CDC says. The H1N1 swine flu is spreading throughout the United States and vaccine remains in short supply, but federal health officials said Tuesday that more than 22 million doses are now available, with more expected in coming weeks.
"This is a challenging time," Dr. Thomas R.
"This is a challenging time," Dr. Thomas R.
Antipsychotic Drugs Spur Dramatic Weight Gain in Kids
October 27, 2009
Researchers urge other alternatives, close monitoring of patients. Children and teens who take medicines for conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and autism tend to put on a substantial amount of weight, a new study finds.
The worry is that excessive weight gain and other metabolic changes in childhood can place kids at risk for chronic health problems as adults. Some of these medicines, collectively known as "atypical antipsychotics," have been linked to increased blood-fat levels.
The worry is that excessive weight gain and other metabolic changes in childhood can place kids at risk for chronic health problems as adults. Some of these medicines, collectively known as "atypical antipsychotics," have been linked to increased blood-fat levels.
Toxins Make Halloween Face Paints Scary
October 29, 2009
Report finds all products tested contained lead and some had known skin allergens. If your little goblins or vampires are set to paint their faces this Halloween to look all the more believable, you may want to think twice, according to a new report released just in time for the holiday.
The report, issued by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, is titled: Pretty Scary: Could Halloween Face Paint Cause Lifelong Health Problems? Researchers tested 10 face paint products, the types widely available via the Internet or in craft or Halloween stores.
"All 10 face paint products tested contained lead, and six out of 10 had known skin allergens, including nickel, cobalt or chromium, at levels above recommendations of industry studies," said Stacy Malkan, the campaign's co-founder and a co-author of the report.
The report, issued by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, is titled: Pretty Scary: Could Halloween Face Paint Cause Lifelong Health Problems? Researchers tested 10 face paint products, the types widely available via the Internet or in craft or Halloween stores.
"All 10 face paint products tested contained lead, and six out of 10 had known skin allergens, including nickel, cobalt or chromium, at levels above recommendations of industry studies," said Stacy Malkan, the campaign's co-founder and a co-author of the report.
Health Tip
Recovering After Childbirth
October 27, 2009
What you should expect New mothers may be so consumed with their newborns that they forget the ordeal of childbirth. How quickly their bodies actually recover is another story.
The Nemours Foundation offers these suggestions of what new mothers may experience:
Tender, full breasts.
The Nemours Foundation offers these suggestions of what new mothers may experience:
Tender, full breasts.
Treat Kids to a Safe Halloween
October 26, 2009
Some simple precautions will safeguard young trick-or-treaters, experts say. There's no trick to keeping children and the rest of the family safe on Halloween. Some simple precautions will ensure that the night is a treat for everyone.
The American Academy of Pediatrics offers the following safety tips:
Choose costumes that are bright and reflective and short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.
The American Academy of Pediatrics offers the following safety tips:
Choose costumes that are bright and reflective and short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.
Sebelius
There Will Be Swine Flu Vaccine for All Who Want It
October 26, 2009
But the HHS secretary admits that delays are limiting supplies so far. While acknowledging delays in getting the swine flu vaccine to Americans, U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said Monday that the vaccine "is coming out the door as fast as it comes off the production line.
6 Million U.S. Kids Lack Enough Vitamin D
October 26, 2009
Minority children are hit hardest, nationwide study finds. While the optimal amount of vitamin D is still subject to debate, a new study finds one thing is sure: over 6 million American children are getting too little of this essential nutrient.
"There are a lot of studies demonstrating associations between low levels of vitamin D and a laundry list of poor health outcomes," noted lead researcher Dr. Jonathan Mansbach, an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School and a pediatrician at Children's Hospital Boston.
"There are a lot of studies demonstrating associations between low levels of vitamin D and a laundry list of poor health outcomes," noted lead researcher Dr. Jonathan Mansbach, an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School and a pediatrician at Children's Hospital Boston.
Obama Declares Swine Flu a National Emergency
October 25, 2009
Action allows hospitals to better handle large numbers of patients as outbreak spreads President Barack Obama has declared the H1N1 swine flu a national emergency.
His proclamation, signed Friday night and released by the White House Saturday, will allow hospitals and doctors' offices to get legal waivers of federal rules so they can handle large numbers of sick people as the outbreak spreads.
"The H1N1 is moving rapidly, as expected.
His proclamation, signed Friday night and released by the White House Saturday, will allow hospitals and doctors' offices to get legal waivers of federal rules so they can handle large numbers of sick people as the outbreak spreads.
"The H1N1 is moving rapidly, as expected.
HPV Vaccine No More Painful Than Other Shots
October 23, 2009
Reports that injection sting is excessive disputed in U.S. study. There have been reports that injections of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine are especially painful, but a new study finds that they don't hurt more than any other shots.
Public health officials worried that reports of excess pain might prevent young women from getting the vaccine, which protects against a virus that can cause cervical cancer, some other kinds of cancer and genital warts. There was also concern that some women might not get all three required doses.
Public health officials worried that reports of excess pain might prevent young women from getting the vaccine, which protects against a virus that can cause cervical cancer, some other kinds of cancer and genital warts. There was also concern that some women might not get all three required doses.
Swine Flu Vaccine Still in Short Supply
October 23, 2009
Goal of 40 million doses by end of October won't be met, CDC says. Production delays continue to hamper distribution of the H1N1 swine flu vaccine, a leading U.S. health official said Friday.
Cocaine Use in Pregnancy Linked to Impulsivity in Sons
October 23, 2009
Monkey research finds that mother's drug use affects male offspring's behavior. While adult male monkeys exposed to cocaine in the womb have poor impulse control, the same is not true for female monkeys, new research has found.
The male monkeys continued to have poor impulse control 15 years after birth. Impulsivity is a risk factor for drug abuse, said the researchers, who added that their findings could help improve understanding of human drug abuse.
The male monkeys continued to have poor impulse control 15 years after birth. Impulsivity is a risk factor for drug abuse, said the researchers, who added that their findings could help improve understanding of human drug abuse.
Babies Spot Human Speech at 5 Months
October 23, 2009
They easily distinguish language from animal sounds, researchers say. Children as young as 5 months old are able to tell the difference between human speech and monkey calls, a new study has found.
Researchers showed 5-month-old infants from English- and French-speaking homes pictures of human faces and rhesus monkey faces paired with either human speech or monkey calls. The infants looked longer at pictures of human faces when human speech was presented and longer at monkey faces when monkey calls were played.
Researchers showed 5-month-old infants from English- and French-speaking homes pictures of human faces and rhesus monkey faces paired with either human speech or monkey calls. The infants looked longer at pictures of human faces when human speech was presented and longer at monkey faces when monkey calls were played.
Psychiatric Meds for Infants Linked to Later Behavior Problems
October 22, 2009
Researchers found drugs used to treat mood disorders, pain and epilepsy raised risk. Researchers report that infant rats given commonly prescribed drugs to treat mood disorders, pain and epilepsy develop behavioral problems in adulthood.
Earlier studies showed that brain cells in young rats die after they're given the drugs. The cells are in parts of the brain that control mood, cognition and movement.
Earlier studies showed that brain cells in young rats die after they're given the drugs. The cells are in parts of the brain that control mood, cognition and movement.
Production Problems Plague Delivery of Swine Flu Vaccine
October 23, 2009
Despite significant shortfall, CDC says all Americans who want shot will be able to get one, eventually. As reports of swine flu infections continue to pour in from across the United States, health experts labored Thursday to explain why delivery of stocks of the long-awaited H1N1 vaccine are falling behind schedule.
Federal officials had projected that 40 million doses would be on hand by Oct. 15, but not even 13 million doses had arrived by Tuesday.
Federal officials had projected that 40 million doses would be on hand by Oct. 15, but not even 13 million doses had arrived by Tuesday.
Rotavirus Vaccine Cutting Infection Rates Among Kids
October 22, 2009
CDC report shows drop in U.S. incidence since vaccine was introduced in 2006. Since routine vaccination of infants against rotavirus started in the United States in 2006, there's been a substantial reduction in the number of cases of rotavirus disease in children, a new government study shows.
Rotavirus is the leading cause worldwide of severe acute diarrhea in children younger than 5. Before 2006, rotavirus caused 20 to 60 deaths each year in the United States, along with 55,000 to 70,000 hospitalizations, 205,000 to 272,000 emergency department visits, and 410,000 outpatient visits among children younger than 5.
Rotavirus is the leading cause worldwide of severe acute diarrhea in children younger than 5. Before 2006, rotavirus caused 20 to 60 deaths each year in the United States, along with 55,000 to 70,000 hospitalizations, 205,000 to 272,000 emergency department visits, and 410,000 outpatient visits among children younger than 5.
Money Woes Keeping Many Couples From Fertility Treatments
October 22, 2009
They're foregoing expensive therapies or opting to discard stored embryos, studies show. A squeeze on finances is now playing a key role in many couples' decisions about fertility treatments, including whether they will try to conceive using assisted reproductive technology or whether they will discard leftover embryos put into storage, new studies show.
Among the new findings, presented this week at the annual meeting of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine in Atlanta:
More than half (58 percent) of couples diagnosed as infertile who opted not to pursue treatment said cost was the primary reason;
About 7 percent of couples who had leftover embryos in cold storage discarded the embryos from October 2008 to March 2009, a number that was almost three times higher than six months prior;
About 57 percent of young women who donated eggs to infertile couples in 2008 now say they planned to use the money to pay for school, up from 28 percent in 2002-2004.
Given the high cost of fertility treatments, which are often not covered by insurance, experts said they weren't surprised by the findings.
Among the new findings, presented this week at the annual meeting of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine in Atlanta:
More than half (58 percent) of couples diagnosed as infertile who opted not to pursue treatment said cost was the primary reason;
About 7 percent of couples who had leftover embryos in cold storage discarded the embryos from October 2008 to March 2009, a number that was almost three times higher than six months prior;
About 57 percent of young women who donated eggs to infertile couples in 2008 now say they planned to use the money to pay for school, up from 28 percent in 2002-2004.
Given the high cost of fertility treatments, which are often not covered by insurance, experts said they weren't surprised by the findings.
Assessing Embryo Metabolism May Aid IVF Success
October 22, 2009
Aim is to determine which have best chance of success. Examining the metabolism of embryos may help determine which ones offer the best chance of success with in vitro fertilization (IVF), a new study finds.
Currently, the process of selecting embryos for implantation in the mother's womb is highly subjective.
"It's a guessing game that can end in IVF failure or multiple pregnancies," Dr.
Currently, the process of selecting embryos for implantation in the mother's womb is highly subjective.
"It's a guessing game that can end in IVF failure or multiple pregnancies," Dr.
Health Tip
Soothe the Pain of Breast-Feeding
October 22, 2009
Have a more comfortable experience Breast-feeding is a great time to bond with your little one. But for some moms, it can be a painful experience.
The Nemours Foundation offers these suggestions to help make breast-feeding a little more comfortable:
Make sure your baby is latched on correctly.
The Nemours Foundation offers these suggestions to help make breast-feeding a little more comfortable:
Make sure your baby is latched on correctly.
Less Sensitivity to Hormone May Play Role in Autism
October 22, 2009
Treatment with oxytocin might improve social interaction, researchers say. A new genetic signature that's strongly associated with autism has been identified by U.S. researchers, who said the finding may lead to new ways to diagnose and treat the disorder.
For Obese, Weight Gained in Pregnancy May Not Leave
October 21, 2009
Overweight women have tougher time shedding those excess pounds, study finds. Obese women who gain more than 15 pounds during pregnancy tend to retain much of it long after delivery, a new U.S. study finds.
Sex of Twins May Affect Outcomes
October 21, 2009
Early birth, breathing problems more likely when pair includes a boy, study finds. The outcomes of a twin pregnancy .
CDC Panel Says No to Routine Use of Gardasil for Boys
October 21, 2009
Doctors are free to offer HPV shot to males but widespread vaccination not advised. A U.S. advisory panel on Wednesday voted against the routine use of the vaccine Gardasil in boys and men, but did leave individual doctors free to recommend the vaccine for males as an option.
Alternative Treatments May Boost IVF Success
October 21, 2009
Mind-body therapies increase odds of pregnancy, studies find. New research suggests that mind-body treatment can boost the odds that infertile women will become pregnant by in vitro fertilization .
Worldwide Vaccine Availability Reaches All-Time High
Report
October 21, 2009
Experts urge international community to continue to push for progress. Worldwide immunization rates are at their highest-ever levels,
a new report shows.
A record number of vaccines .
a new report shows.
A record number of vaccines .
Prolonged Use of Pacifier Linked to Speech Problems
October 21, 2009
Kids with sucking habit for more than 3 years may be at increased risk, researchers say. A pacifier is fine for a while, but don't let your child use one too long, experts say.
In a study of 128 children aged 3 to 5 in Patagonia, Chile, researchers found that children who used a pacifier or sucked their fingers for more than three years were three times as likely as other kids to develop speech impediments.
The study, published online in the journal BMC Pediatrics, also found that children will have a lower risk of developing speech disorders if they don't start using bottles until they're at least 9 months old.
In a study of 128 children aged 3 to 5 in Patagonia, Chile, researchers found that children who used a pacifier or sucked their fingers for more than three years were three times as likely as other kids to develop speech impediments.
The study, published online in the journal BMC Pediatrics, also found that children will have a lower risk of developing speech disorders if they don't start using bottles until they're at least 9 months old.
New IVF Guidelines Aim to Reduce Multiple Births
October 20, 2009
Key provision limits embryo transfers In an effort to reduce multiple births following fertility treatment, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine has revised its recommendations on the number of embryos that should be transferred during in vitro fertilization procedures.
The society reports that the guidelines are now different in two major ways.
For one, it says that doctors should only use one more embryo than called for in patients whose prognosis is less optimistic.
The society reports that the guidelines are now different in two major ways.
For one, it says that doctors should only use one more embryo than called for in patients whose prognosis is less optimistic.
Swine Flu Still Strikes Younger People Hardest
October 20, 2009
90 percent of deaths since Sept. 1 were among those under 65, CDC says. The H1N1 swine flu epidemic continues to strike younger people, a U.S. health official said Tuesday, noting that nearly 90 percent of deaths since Sept.
Seasonal Flu Vaccine Approved for Children
October 20, 2009
Fluarix sanctioned for kids aged 3 to 17 GlaxoSmithKline's seasonal flu vaccine, Fluarix, has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for children aged 3 to 17, the agency said in a news release.
Full Results of AIDS Vaccine Trial Confirm Modest Benefit
October 20, 2009
But the Thai trial also suggests shot's effects may wane with time The full results of a landmark trial of an AIDS vaccine show that the shot did have limited success in protecting recipients from HIV.
But the study, published Tuesday in the New England Journal of Medicine, also suggests that this effect fades with time and may not work well for those at highest risk from HIV, such as people who engage in risky sexual practices or abuse intravenous drugs.
"Although our study provided preliminary evidence that an HIV vaccine regimen has the potential to prevent infection, it did not have the power to address two intriguing questions: vaccine efficacy may have decreased over the first year after vaccination, and vaccine efficacy may have been greater in persons at lower risk of infection," wrote the researchers who tested the vaccine on more than 16,000 young adult volunteers in Thailand.
But the study, published Tuesday in the New England Journal of Medicine, also suggests that this effect fades with time and may not work well for those at highest risk from HIV, such as people who engage in risky sexual practices or abuse intravenous drugs.
"Although our study provided preliminary evidence that an HIV vaccine regimen has the potential to prevent infection, it did not have the power to address two intriguing questions: vaccine efficacy may have decreased over the first year after vaccination, and vaccine efficacy may have been greater in persons at lower risk of infection," wrote the researchers who tested the vaccine on more than 16,000 young adult volunteers in Thailand.
Babies Injured in Car Seats Used Outside of Cars
October 20, 2009
Study found more than 43,000 emergency-room visits during five-year period. Infant car seats have saved countless young lives, but those same seats are also responsible for injuring thousands of youngsters when improperly used outside a vehicle, a new study found.
More than 43,000 infants in the United States required emergency room care between 2003 and 2007 after falling in car seats that were improperly placed on tables, counters and other elevated surfaces. Accidents were even reported after seats rolled over on soft surfaces, such as beds and sofas, the study discovered.
More than 43,000 infants in the United States required emergency room care between 2003 and 2007 after falling in car seats that were improperly placed on tables, counters and other elevated surfaces. Accidents were even reported after seats rolled over on soft surfaces, such as beds and sofas, the study discovered.
Clues to Hypertension in Kids May Be Seen in Bones
October 20, 2009
Accelerated skeletal maturation may be early sign, researchers say.
New research links high blood pressure in children to bones that are more mature than average, suggesting that advanced bone age may predict cardiovascular problems.
The new study, published Oct. 19 in the journal Hypertension, looked at children and found that those without high blood pressure had bones that reflected their chronological age within four months.
New research links high blood pressure in children to bones that are more mature than average, suggesting that advanced bone age may predict cardiovascular problems.
The new study, published Oct. 19 in the journal Hypertension, looked at children and found that those without high blood pressure had bones that reflected their chronological age within four months.
Minnesota Pig Infected With H1N1 Flu
October 19, 2009
Federal officials say there's no danger in eating pork products. A pig that was shown at the Minnesota State Fair two months ago has tested positive for the H1N1 virus, making it the first case of a pig contracting the virus in the United States, federal officials said Monday.
The U.S.
The U.S.
Mercury Levels Not Abnormal in Autistic Children
October 19, 2009
Study finds no differences when compared to kids without disorder. A new study finds no differences in blood mercury levels between children who are developing normally and those diagnosed with autism or autism spectrum disorders.
The findings, appearing online Oct. 19 in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, may quell some of the debate surrounding mercury and autism.
The findings, appearing online Oct. 19 in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, may quell some of the debate surrounding mercury and autism.
Health Tip
The Importance of Folic Acid
October 19, 2009
It can help prevent birth defects Folic acid is particularly important for pregnant women, and should be taken, if possible, beginning at least three months before they become pregnant.
The U.S.
The U.S.
Take the Sting Out of Your Child's Flu Shots
October 18, 2009
Bubbles and relaxation exercises can help cut the pain, experts say. Even many adults want to run away from an injection, so it's no surprise that children will try to flee, scream, cry and make a scene when it's time for flu shots this year.
"The good news is that there are several techniques that parents can use to positively impact their child's experience when getting a needlestick .
"The good news is that there are several techniques that parents can use to positively impact their child's experience when getting a needlestick .
11 More Children Die From Swine Flu
CDC
October 17, 2009
And vaccine production delays mean fewer shots will be available by month's end. Eleven more U.S. children died from H1N1 swine flu during the past week, a federal health official said Friday, adding that the disease is now so widespread it has surpassed epidemic proportions.
Obesity May Affect Fertility in Young Women
October 16, 2009
Ability to have children is important to many who undergo weight-reduction surgery, study finds. Women who become obese .
11 More Children Die From Swine Flu
CDC
October 16, 2009
And vaccine production delays mean fewer shots will be available by month's end. Eleven more U.S. children died from H1N1 swine flu during the past week, a federal health official said Friday, adding that the disease is now so widespread it has surpassed epidemic proportions.
Transplant May Treat Metabolic Disorders in Womb
October 16, 2009
Cord-blood stem cells given early in pregnancy might save infants most at risk, researchers say. U.S. researchers are testing a new approach in cord-blood transplants to treat genetic metabolic disorders in babies while they're still in the womb.
Tylenol May Weaken Effectiveness of Kids' Vaccines
October 16, 2009
Giving analgesic to prevent fever at shot time could be counterproductive, researchers say. Fever after a vaccination is a normal and essential part of building an immune response, and giving children acetaminophen .
Bad Reaction No Good Reason to Avoid Future Shots
October 15, 2009
Experts urge doctors to investigate source of vaccine allergy. People who appear to be allergic to vaccinations shouldn't automatically avoid future immunizations, but instead should try to find out why they had a bad reaction, new guidelines say.
"Local, injection-site reactions and constitutional symptoms, especially fever, are common after vaccinations and do not contraindicate future doses," Dr. John M.
"Local, injection-site reactions and constitutional symptoms, especially fever, are common after vaccinations and do not contraindicate future doses," Dr. John M.
Fewer Genital Warts Thanks to HPV Vaccine Program
October 15, 2009
Australia sees a drop in cases following free Gardasil shots, researchers say. New cases of genital warts have declined sharply since vaccination of teen girls and young women against the human papillomavirus (HPV) began in Australia in 2007, a new study has found.
Certain types of HPV are linked with the development of cervical cancer.
Researchers analyzed data on new clients receiving treatment for genital warts at the Melbourne Sexual Health Center between 2004 and 2008.
Certain types of HPV are linked with the development of cervical cancer.
Researchers analyzed data on new clients receiving treatment for genital warts at the Melbourne Sexual Health Center between 2004 and 2008.
Dyslexia More Complicated for Chinese
October 14, 2009
Study uncovers combination of phonological and visuospatial deficits. Dyslexia is different, and perhaps more complicated and severe, in Chinese-speaking people than in those who speak English, a new study contends.
University of Hong Kong researchers say the differences can be seen in brain scans and in the performance of visual and language tasks.
In people who speak English, dyslexia is a phonological disorder.
University of Hong Kong researchers say the differences can be seen in brain scans and in the performance of visual and language tasks.
In people who speak English, dyslexia is a phonological disorder.
Severe Swine Flu Could Lead to Blood Clots in Lungs
Study
October 14, 2009
Researchers say CT scans may be needed to spot the risk People who are severely ill with the H1N1 swine flu run the risk of blood clots in the lungs, University of Michigan researchers say.
And because standard chest X-rays may not be able to spot the potentially fatal condition, more sophisticated CT scans may be needed to identify the risk, the researchers said.
Technically called a pulmonary embolism, the condition occurs when one or more arteries in the lungs become blocked.
And because standard chest X-rays may not be able to spot the potentially fatal condition, more sophisticated CT scans may be needed to identify the risk, the researchers said.
Technically called a pulmonary embolism, the condition occurs when one or more arteries in the lungs become blocked.
Shared Bed May Raise SIDS Risk
October 14, 2009
Parental use of alcohol, drugs noted in about a third of deaths, study finds. More than half of sudden infant deaths involve babies who share a bed or sofa with a parent, and alcohol or drug use by parents appears to be a factor in many of the cases, says a U.K. study.
Eye Problems Increasing in Preemies
October 13, 2009
As more pre-term infants survive, doctors see more babies with retinopathy of prematurity. Increased survival of extremely pre-term infants has led to a greater number of babies with vision problems caused by abnormal development of blood vessels in the retina, a new study finds.
Swedish researchers looked at data on 506 extremely pre-term infants (born before 27 weeks of gestation) who survived until their first eye examination and found that 368 (72.7 percent) had retinopathy of prematurity .
Swedish researchers looked at data on 506 extremely pre-term infants (born before 27 weeks of gestation) who survived until their first eye examination and found that 368 (72.7 percent) had retinopathy of prematurity .
Many Hospitalized With Swine Flu Had Been Healthy
October 13, 2009
But the majority of cases still involve people with chronic problems, CDC says. While the majority of people hospitalized with the H1N1 swine flu have chronic medical conditions, many were healthy before coming down with the disease, a U.S. health official said Tuesday.
Baby Names Prone to Boom-and-Bust Cycles
October 13, 2009
Parents today favor choices that have recently risen in popularity, study finds. New parents like baby names that are not merely popular but on the rise, compared to names that are falling out of favor, a new study suggests.
The findings by researchers at New York University and Indiana University provide evidence that parental naming choices are influenced by trends in ways that weren't previously understood, the study authors said.
"Our results give support to the idea that individual naming choices are in a large part determined by the social environment that expecting parents experience," the authors wrote.
The findings by researchers at New York University and Indiana University provide evidence that parental naming choices are influenced by trends in ways that weren't previously understood, the study authors said.
"Our results give support to the idea that individual naming choices are in a large part determined by the social environment that expecting parents experience," the authors wrote.
Many Americans Still Leery of Swine Flu Vaccine
October 13, 2009
But experts say it's as safe as the shot for run-of-the-mill seasonal flu. Even as the H1N1 swine flu vaccine is distributed coast to coast, many people say they have safety concerns that may stop them from getting vaccinated.
Although experts say those fears are unwarranted, a recent Associated Press-GfK poll found only about half of Americans said they are planning to get the vaccine. Most of those are older people .
Although experts say those fears are unwarranted, a recent Associated Press-GfK poll found only about half of Americans said they are planning to get the vaccine. Most of those are older people .
Health Tip
Bringing Baby Home
October 13, 2009
Prepare for the trip from the hospital Once you leave the hospital with your newborn, you and your partner are on your own.
The Nemours Foundation offers these suggestions before you begin the trip home:
Pack personal clothing that's comfortable. You may now be too small for most maternity wear, but you probably won't be back to your pre-pregnancy size, either.
The Nemours Foundation offers these suggestions before you begin the trip home:
Pack personal clothing that's comfortable. You may now be too small for most maternity wear, but you probably won't be back to your pre-pregnancy size, either.
Mother's Cancer Can Pass to Fetus
October 12, 2009
Genetic analysis is first proof this rare phenomenon occurs, scientists say. Over the past century doctors have suspected that cancers can spread from a pregnant woman to her fetus, but a genetically confirmed case reported this week from Japan suggests the phenomenon is real.
Mother-to-fetus transmission still likely rare, experts say, since the placenta acts as a barrier to cells from the mother, and the fetal immune system would reject and destroy cancer cells.
"Some 30 times reported in the past, mother and infant have appeared to share the same cancer, usually leukemia or melanoma," noted lead researcher Dr.
Mother-to-fetus transmission still likely rare, experts say, since the placenta acts as a barrier to cells from the mother, and the fetal immune system would reject and destroy cancer cells.
"Some 30 times reported in the past, mother and infant have appeared to share the same cancer, usually leukemia or melanoma," noted lead researcher Dr.
Stop-Smoking Vaccine in the Works
October 12, 2009
Researchers move closer to a shot for kicking nicotine addiction. The National Institute on Drug Abuse has given a $10 million grant to a Maryland company to help it in the final phases of research regarding a possible anti-nicotine vaccine.
Nabi Biopharmaceuticals of Rockville will launch a phase III study of a potential vaccine called NicVAX. The study, which could be the last step of research if the vaccine works, represents the most advanced investigation of a smoking-cessation vaccine.
Nabi Biopharmaceuticals of Rockville will launch a phase III study of a potential vaccine called NicVAX. The study, which could be the last step of research if the vaccine works, represents the most advanced investigation of a smoking-cessation vaccine.
Want Leaner Kids? Parents May Need to Toe the Line
October 11, 2009
Health experts say much can be done to keep weight in check. It's a trend that has health experts worried: Young kids are becoming increasingly oversized .
76 Children Dead From Swine Flu
CDC
October 09, 2009
Finding highlights the need for kids to be vaccinated against the disease, experts say. Underscoring the threat that the H1N1 swine flu poses to children, U.S. health officials said Friday that 76 children have died from the disease since it appeared in April, including 19 in the past week alone.
'No Flu Shots for My Kids'
October 09, 2009
Some moms aren't convinced vaccines are necessary, safe or effective. Margaret Park, a mother of five, isn't having her kids vaccinated against seasonal influenza or H1N1 swine flu this year.
Park, a registered dietitian from Manassas Park, Va., is fighting the flu on her own terms .
Park, a registered dietitian from Manassas Park, Va., is fighting the flu on her own terms .
Miscarriage Treatment Won't Harm Future Fertility
Study
October 09, 2009
Most women give birth within five years, researchers find. The current treatments for women who've had an early miscarriage don't affect their long-term fertility, new research shows.
About 15 percent of pregnancies end in miscarriage in the first trimester. For decades, standard treatment was surgery to remove tissue remaining in the uterus, but now many women are offered expectant (watch and wait) and medical treatment as well, according to background information in the study.
About 15 percent of pregnancies end in miscarriage in the first trimester. For decades, standard treatment was surgery to remove tissue remaining in the uterus, but now many women are offered expectant (watch and wait) and medical treatment as well, according to background information in the study.
Health Tip
Help Prevent Listeriosis During Pregnancy
October 09, 2009
Pregnant women are at higher risk Listeriosis is a bacterial infection that's contracted from contaminated food or drink. The infection can cause serious effects for a pregnant woman and her growing fetus, including miscarriage or early delivery.
The U.
The U.
Giving Gardasil to Boys Not Worth the Cost
October 09, 2009
But other experts dispute finding, and say young men need protection from STDs. The cost of giving boys the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine would outweigh any health benefit, researchers say.
Last month, a U.S.
Last month, a U.S.
Half of U.S. Kids Assaulted Each Year
Study
October 08, 2009
Report calls for better ways to identify and treat young victims of violence. More than 60 percent of youngsters had either direct or indirect exposure to violence within the past year, according to a U.S. government survey that looked at past-year and lifetime exposure to violence among children aged 17 and younger.
Shingles Raises Stroke Risk
Study
October 08, 2009
Patients with the virus should be monitored for high blood pressure, expert says. Adults with the skin disease shingles appear to be at raised risk for stroke, especially when it affects the area around the eyes, researchers report.
Previous reports have linked shingles with stroke risk, but "the exact frequency and risk for these phenomena are still unknown," said study lead author Dr. Jiunn-Horng Kang, a principal investigator in the Neuroscience Research Center of Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taiwan.
Previous reports have linked shingles with stroke risk, but "the exact frequency and risk for these phenomena are still unknown," said study lead author Dr. Jiunn-Horng Kang, a principal investigator in the Neuroscience Research Center of Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taiwan.
Exercise Boosts Bone Density in Breast-Feeding Moms
October 08, 2009
Lactation depletes calcium stores, but working out can minimize risks, research shows. New moms who breast-feed may need exercise .
Health Tip
Before You Become Pregnant
October 08, 2009
Make sure you take certain precautions If you're thinking about starting a family, it's a good idea to practice healthy habits before you become pregnant.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers this pre-conception advice:
Schedule a visit with your doctor to ask questions and find out about any potential risks.
Eat a healthy diet and get regular exercise.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers this pre-conception advice:
Schedule a visit with your doctor to ask questions and find out about any potential risks.
Eat a healthy diet and get regular exercise.
Health Tip
Understanding Gestational Diabetes
October 08, 2009
What it means for you and baby Gestational diabetes occurs only during pregnancy, and affects about 4 percent of pregnant women, says the American Diabetes Association.
Though scientists aren't certain of its exact cause, it's thought that hormones from the placenta make it difficult for the mother's body to process insulin.
Left untreated, the baby can get too much blood sugar from the mother, possibly leading to a high birth weight, difficult delivery and an above-normal risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life, the association says.
Though scientists aren't certain of its exact cause, it's thought that hormones from the placenta make it difficult for the mother's body to process insulin.
Left untreated, the baby can get too much blood sugar from the mother, possibly leading to a high birth weight, difficult delivery and an above-normal risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life, the association says.
Potential Pieces of Autism Puzzle Revealed
October 07, 2009
Researchers identify possible genetic links, but urge further study. New genes and genomic regions that might be associated with autism have been identified by an international research team.
The researchers identified a single-letter change on chromosome 5 near a gene called semaphorin 5A, which is believed to help guide the growth of neurons and their long progressions, called axons. The activity of this gene appears to be reduced in the brains of people with autism.
The researchers identified a single-letter change on chromosome 5 near a gene called semaphorin 5A, which is believed to help guide the growth of neurons and their long progressions, called axons. The activity of this gene appears to be reduced in the brains of people with autism.
Sebelius Urges Americans to Get Swine Flu Vaccine
October 07, 2009
HHS secretary says shots are made in same way as seasonal flu vaccine, and children are vulnerable to the disease. U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius renewed her call Wednesday for Americans .
Birth Control Pills Might Alter Mate Selection
Study
October 07, 2009
Review suggests it could hinder reproduction in the future. Could birth control pills be taking human evolution in a whole new, and possibly detrimental, direction?
A review of past research finds that, by altering hormonal cycles, the pill might affect choice of mates among members of both genders in a way that could hinder successful reproduction in the future.
"The use of the pill by women, by changing her mate preferences, might induce women to mate with otherwise less-preferred partners, which might have important consequences for mate choice and reproductive outcomes," said Alexandra Alvergne, lead author of a study appearing in the October issue of Trends in Ecology & Evolution.
"One prediction is that offspring of pill users are more homozygous than expected, possibly related to impaired immune function and decreased perceived health and attractiveness," according to the report by Alvergne, a postdoctoral research associate in the department of animal and plant sciences at the University of Sheffield in England, and colleague Virpi Lummaa.
A review of past research finds that, by altering hormonal cycles, the pill might affect choice of mates among members of both genders in a way that could hinder successful reproduction in the future.
"The use of the pill by women, by changing her mate preferences, might induce women to mate with otherwise less-preferred partners, which might have important consequences for mate choice and reproductive outcomes," said Alexandra Alvergne, lead author of a study appearing in the October issue of Trends in Ecology & Evolution.
"One prediction is that offspring of pill users are more homozygous than expected, possibly related to impaired immune function and decreased perceived health and attractiveness," according to the report by Alvergne, a postdoctoral research associate in the department of animal and plant sciences at the University of Sheffield in England, and colleague Virpi Lummaa.
Seasonal Flu Vaccine May Lessen Swine Flu Impact
October 07, 2009
But it won't fully protect people from the H1N1 virus, experts say. The seasonal flu vaccine may offer partial protection against the pandemic H1N1 swine flu, but not enough to prevent a person from catching the swine flu, Mexican researchers say.
In a study of hospital patients during the H1N1 epidemic in Mexico City last spring, the researchers found that those who had had a seasonal flu shot and were infected with the H1N1 flu had significantly milder cases than those who had not received a seasonal flu shot.
For the study, a group led by Dr.
In a study of hospital patients during the H1N1 epidemic in Mexico City last spring, the researchers found that those who had had a seasonal flu shot and were infected with the H1N1 flu had significantly milder cases than those who had not received a seasonal flu shot.
For the study, a group led by Dr.
Officials Stress Safety as Swine Flu Vaccine Arrives
October 06, 2009
Shots are made in same way as seasonal flu vaccine; no serious side effects reported, CDC says As Americans begin to receive the first doses of the H1N1 swine flu vaccine, federal health officials stressed again Tuesday the product's safety.
During an afternoon press conference, the chief of the U.S.
During an afternoon press conference, the chief of the U.S.
Cow's Milk Protein Could Help Save Preemies' Lives
October 06, 2009
Lactoferrin cut blood infections by about two-thirds, study found. A protein from cow's milk could reduce by about two-thirds the rate of serious blood infections in babies born weighing less than 3.3 pounds.
That's the conclusion of a study published in the Oct.
That's the conclusion of a study published in the Oct.
Plastics Chemical Tied to Aggression in Young Girls
October 06, 2009
BPA has been linked to other dangers, but behavioral effects remain unclear. In the latest study to suggest an association between the plastics chemical bisphenol A (BPA) and adverse effects on humans, researchers report that BPA may affect the behavior of little girls.
Girls exposed to higher levels of BPA displayed more "externalizing" behaviors, such as aggression and hyperactivity, according to the study, which is published in the Oct. 6 online edition of Environmental Health Perspectives.
Girls exposed to higher levels of BPA displayed more "externalizing" behaviors, such as aggression and hyperactivity, according to the study, which is published in the Oct. 6 online edition of Environmental Health Perspectives.
Teens With ADHD, Depression Risk Internet Addiction
October 06, 2009
In a wired world, obsessive use is likely to increase, experts say Teenagers with psychosocial disorders such as ADHD, depression and social phobia are more likely to be addicted to the Internet than other teens, new research suggests.
Because computer use is a way of life in the United States, the potential exists for childhood computer addiction to become a major public health problem, the Taiwanese study authors say.
They asked 2,293 seventh graders, whose average age was 12, to fill out questionnaires that assessed whether they had ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder), depression, social phobia or abnormal feelings of hostility.
Because computer use is a way of life in the United States, the potential exists for childhood computer addiction to become a major public health problem, the Taiwanese study authors say.
They asked 2,293 seventh graders, whose average age was 12, to fill out questionnaires that assessed whether they had ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder), depression, social phobia or abnormal feelings of hostility.
Most Childhood Cancer Survivors Have Healthy Babies
October 06, 2009
But pregnancies should be closely monitored, researchers say. Most female and male childhood cancer survivors have normal pregnancies and healthy children, according to two U.S. studies.
Early H1N1 Vaccination Saves Lives, Cuts Costs
Study
October 05, 2009
Projects that inoculating 40% of population in October, November would blunt pandemic. To minimize deaths from the H1N1 pandemic swine flu, vaccination should start as soon as possible, a new U.S. study suggests.
Antidepressants May Be Linked to Birth Problems
October 05, 2009
Moms-to-be taking SSRIs had double the risk of early delivery, study finds. Taking a popular type of antidepressant during pregnancy may increase the risk for preterm birth, the need for treatment in a neonatal intensive care unit and lower overall health for the baby, according to a new study.
Researchers compared birth outcomes among babies born to 329 women who took selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) during pregnancy, 4,902 women who had a history of psychiatric illness but did not take SSRIs during pregnancy and 51,770 women with no history of mental illness.
Compared with women who had no history of mental illness, those who took SSRIs during pregnancy gave birth an average of five days earlier and had double the risk for preterm delivery.
Researchers compared birth outcomes among babies born to 329 women who took selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) during pregnancy, 4,902 women who had a history of psychiatric illness but did not take SSRIs during pregnancy and 51,770 women with no history of mental illness.
Compared with women who had no history of mental illness, those who took SSRIs during pregnancy gave birth an average of five days earlier and had double the risk for preterm delivery.
Cocaine Addiction Vaccine Shows Some Success
October 05, 2009
Shot produced desired antibodies in some, but effects were fleeting, scientists say. A vaccine to help cocaine addicts beat their habit is showing some effect but is far from a cure, researchers report.
Slightly more than one-third of participants in a new study developed desired immune system antibodies to the illicit drug and, in this group, cocaine use did go down. But the effects were only sustained for two months, the researchers found.
Slightly more than one-third of participants in a new study developed desired immune system antibodies to the illicit drug and, in this group, cocaine use did go down. But the effects were only sustained for two months, the researchers found.
Do Preemies Benefit From High-Tech Measures?
October 05, 2009
Despite medical advances since the 1990s, success rate the same for babies born extremely early. Even though more treatments are provided for extremely preterm infants, they're no more likely to survive than they were in the mid-1990s, a U.S. study has found.
Tiny Batteries Can Cause Big Problems for Young Children
October 05, 2009
Ingestion of 'button' batteries may have serious consequences, researchers say. Parents beware: It's not unusual for children to ingest the "button" batteries that power everything from wristwatches to cameras, a new study warns.
Some kids swallow the batteries, while others stick them up their nose, researchers found after monitoring cases at a pediatric hospital over a 10-year period and checking case reports from elsewhere.
But, the study authors pointed out, parents and health-care providers often aren't aware of the dangers posed by these miniature disc batteries.
Some kids swallow the batteries, while others stick them up their nose, researchers found after monitoring cases at a pediatric hospital over a 10-year period and checking case reports from elsewhere.
But, the study authors pointed out, parents and health-care providers often aren't aware of the dangers posed by these miniature disc batteries.
Autism May Be More Common Than Thought
October 05, 2009
U.S. government study estimates that 1 of every 91 children is affected. While research has suggested that the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders in American children was about 1 of every 150 children, a new government study estimates that the prevalence is more likely about 1 in every 91 children.
The study, which is published in the October issue of Pediatrics, estimated that 110 of every 10,000 U.S.
The study, which is published in the October issue of Pediatrics, estimated that 110 of every 10,000 U.S.
1 Million 'Preemie' Babies Die Each Year
Report
October 05, 2009
13 million babies are born preterm, almost 10 percent of total births worldwide. An estimated 13 million infants worldwide are born premature each year and more than one million of them die within the first month of life, according to a report released Sunday.
Premature births account for 9.6 percent of total births and for 28 percent of newborn deaths, the data in a White Paper from the March of Dimes and other organizations found.
Premature births account for 9.6 percent of total births and for 28 percent of newborn deaths, the data in a White Paper from the March of Dimes and other organizations found.
Daily Candy in Childhood Linked to Violence in Adulthood
October 02, 2009
But experts note cause-and-effect not proven in study. Children fed candy and sweets on a daily basis are more likely to be convicted of violent crimes as adults, a new study finds.
Researchers from Cardiff University in Wales looked at data on 17,415 children born in a single week during April 1970 in the United Kingdom. The data, from the British Cohort Study, included detailed health and lifestyle information on the children at several points during their lifetimes, including ages 5, 10 and throughout adulthood.
Researchers from Cardiff University in Wales looked at data on 17,415 children born in a single week during April 1970 in the United Kingdom. The data, from the British Cohort Study, included detailed health and lifestyle information on the children at several points during their lifetimes, including ages 5, 10 and throughout adulthood.
Pre-Pregnancy Weight Linked to Babies' Heart Problems
October 01, 2009
Overweight women more likely to have infants with certain birth defects, research shows. Overweight and obese women are more likely to give birth to babies with heart defects, a new study has found.
U.S.
U.S.
28 Pregnant Women Have Died From Swine Flu
CDC
October 01, 2009
Official calls the number 'upsetting'; flu shots and antiviral drugs urged for moms-to-be. Twenty-eight pregnant women in the United States had died from H1N1 swine flu as of the end of August, and 100 pregnant women had been hospitalized in intensive care, federal health officials said Thursday.
While the officials said they've never tracked deaths of pregnant women from seasonal flu, the number of deaths from the H1N1 flu could be significant.
"These are really upsetting numbers," Dr.
While the officials said they've never tracked deaths of pregnant women from seasonal flu, the number of deaths from the H1N1 flu could be significant.
"These are really upsetting numbers," Dr.
Children Need Seasonal Flu Vaccine, Experts Say
October 01, 2009
Study finds vaccination rates lag behind recommended levels. U.S. health officials continue to stress the need to vaccinate children against seasonal flu, as well as swine flu.
Pre-Birth Exposure to 1918 Flu Raised Heart Risks, Study Finds
October 01, 2009
Whether same will hold true for current H1N1 strain remains a mystery. People exposed to the deadly 1918 Spanish flu pandemic while still in their mother's womb were about 20 percent more likely to have heart disease 60 years later, a new study has found.
The flu outbreak in 1918 killed 20 million to 40 million people worldwide, including 500,000 in the United States. That flu, like the current H1N1 swine flu pandemic, began as a mild disease, but it then came back in a much more lethal form.
The flu outbreak in 1918 killed 20 million to 40 million people worldwide, including 500,000 in the United States. That flu, like the current H1N1 swine flu pandemic, began as a mild disease, but it then came back in a much more lethal form.
Swine Flu Could Create Hospital Bed Shortage
October 01, 2009
Report finds demand could exceed supply in 15 states. There could be a shortage of hospital beds in 15 states if 35 percent of Americans get sick from the H1N1 (swine) flu virus, and 12 other states could reach or exceed 75 percent of their hospital bed capacity, a study released Thursday shows.
The number of people who could get sick with H1N1 flu in the United States ranges from a high of 12.9 million in California and a low of 186,434 in Wyoming, and the number of people who are hospitalized could range from a high of 168,025 in California to a low of 2,485 in Wyoming, according to the report from the non-profit group Trust for America's Health.
The number of people who could get sick with H1N1 flu in the United States ranges from a high of 12.9 million in California and a low of 186,434 in Wyoming, and the number of people who are hospitalized could range from a high of 168,025 in California to a low of 2,485 in Wyoming, according to the report from the non-profit group Trust for America's Health.
Children's Belly Aches Don't Disappear With Antidepressant
October 01, 2009
Elavil worked no better than placebo in study of kids with gastrointestinal disorders. Contradicting some previous research in adults, a new study suggests that the antidepressant amitriptyline (Elavil), is no better than a placebo at treating painful gastrointestinal disorders in children.
"The high placebo effect we identified in this study suggests that further studies of the use of certain antidepressants in children with functional bowel disorders are needed. While several trials have demonstrated a beneficial effect of antidepressants, including amitriptyline, for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome in adults, more research is needed to determine how effective this drug is, if at all, in children," study author Dr.
"The high placebo effect we identified in this study suggests that further studies of the use of certain antidepressants in children with functional bowel disorders are needed. While several trials have demonstrated a beneficial effect of antidepressants, including amitriptyline, for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome in adults, more research is needed to determine how effective this drug is, if at all, in children," study author Dr.
Smoking in Pregnancy Linked to Psychotic Symptoms in Kids
October 01, 2009
Study also connects heavy alcohol use to psychiatric disturbances. If women need yet another reason to avoid smoking during pregnancy, researchers now say that tobacco use by expectant mothers may raise the risk that their children will develop psychotic symptoms.
The new research, published in the October issue of the British Journal of Psychiatry, doesn't prove that smoking during pregnancy causes the psychotic behavior, but it does suggest a link.
In the study of 6,356 children in the United Kingdom, more than 11 percent of the 12-year-olds appeared to have definite or suspected symptoms of psychosis.
The new research, published in the October issue of the British Journal of Psychiatry, doesn't prove that smoking during pregnancy causes the psychotic behavior, but it does suggest a link.
In the study of 6,356 children in the United Kingdom, more than 11 percent of the 12-year-olds appeared to have definite or suspected symptoms of psychosis.
Health Tip
Reduce the Risk of Preterm Labor
October 01, 2009
Lifestyle choices can help you have a healthy pregnancy Preterm labor occurs earlier than 37 weeks of pregnancy.
If born too early, babies can have significant health issues, including slowed growth and learning, and problems with the eyes, ears, breathing and nervous system.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says lifestyle choices can sometimes prevent premature labor and birth.
If born too early, babies can have significant health issues, including slowed growth and learning, and problems with the eyes, ears, breathing and nervous system.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says lifestyle choices can sometimes prevent premature labor and birth.
Study Urges Treatment for Even Mild Gestational Diabetes
September 30, 2009
Women, babies alike benefit when therapy goes to more than just severe cases, experts say. Pregnant women who receive treatment for the mildest forms of gestational diabetes .
Cooling Helps Oxygen-Deprived Newborns
September 30, 2009
Study found it lowered risk of neurological problems later. New research shows that lowering the body temperature of oxygen-deprived newborns reduces the risk for neurological problems later.
Unfortunately, the strategy did not reduce the risk of death or severe disability.
Still, the findings, appearing in the Oct.
Unfortunately, the strategy did not reduce the risk of death or severe disability.
Still, the findings, appearing in the Oct.
CDC Links Infections With Swine Flu Deaths
September 30, 2009
Nearly a third of U.S. victims were also infected with pneumococcus or other bacteria, agency reports. Bacterial co-infections are common among people who have died of H1N1 swine flu in the United States and probably contributed to their deaths, according to a new federal government study.
Researchers from the U.S.
Researchers from the U.S.
1918 Flu Closings May Provide Lessons for Today
September 29, 2009
Cities weighing swine flu school closures should review past practices, researchers say. An analysis of disease control measures used during the 1918 influenza pandemic offers lessons for dealing with the issue of school closures this fall in response to the H1N1 swine flu pandemic, say U.S. researchers.
Fetal Surgery May Treat Heart Defect
September 29, 2009
Researchers see some success in alleviating hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Infants born with a rare heart defect may have better outcomes when surgery to repair the heart is done while the infant is still in the womb, Harvard University researchers say.
The condition, hypoplastic left heart syndrome, occurs when the fetus's left ventricle is underdeveloped and the heart cannot pump enough blood to sustain life. It affects about 1 in 10,000 newborns, and without open-heart surgery within a week of birth, these infants face death.
The condition, hypoplastic left heart syndrome, occurs when the fetus's left ventricle is underdeveloped and the heart cannot pump enough blood to sustain life. It affects about 1 in 10,000 newborns, and without open-heart surgery within a week of birth, these infants face death.
Social Status as a Teen Predicts Health as an Adult
September 29, 2009
Research finds those at the top of the pecking order fared the best. For those middle-aged folks who cringe at the memory of their adolescence, new Swedish research suggests that social standing as a teenager has long-term health consequences.
And in a related study, British scientists have found that children whose mothers work outside the home are more likely to engage in unhealthier lifestyles .
And in a related study, British scientists have found that children whose mothers work outside the home are more likely to engage in unhealthier lifestyles .
Improved Screening for Jaundice Can Protect Newborns
September 28, 2009
Universal testing would help prevent severe cases that can lead to brain damage, study finds. New research suggests that a blood test in infants can catch many of those at risk for severe jaundice, a potentially dangerous condition.
The test measures levels of a bile pigment called bilirubin. The body makes bilirubin when it recycles old blood cells, and researchers have noticed that high levels are linked to jaundice.
The test measures levels of a bile pigment called bilirubin. The body makes bilirubin when it recycles old blood cells, and researchers have noticed that high levels are linked to jaundice.
Many Kids Suffer Medication Side Effects
Study
September 28, 2009
Adverse drug reactions cause more than half a million children's outpatient visits a year, researchers find. More than half a million kids a year are treated for medication side effects in American outpatient clinics and emergency rooms, according to new data.
Researchers at Children's Hospital Boston analyzed National Center for Health Statistics outpatient data between 1995 and 2005. Among children up to age 18, there were 585,922 visits a year for adverse drug events (ADEs).
Researchers at Children's Hospital Boston analyzed National Center for Health Statistics outpatient data between 1995 and 2005. Among children up to age 18, there were 585,922 visits a year for adverse drug events (ADEs).
Children's Growth Charts Don't Measure Up With Parents
September 28, 2009
Many don't understand how to read or interpret them, survey shows. Parents want to know how their children measure up on the growth charts widely used in pediatrician's offices, but many parents don't understand how to read or interpret the information, a new survey shows.
About 85 percent of parents could look at a growth chart with one point plotted and correctly identify that the point corresponded to the child's age, according to an online survey of a nationally representative group of 1,000 moms and dads. About two-thirds of parents were able to identify both a child's weight and percentile on a chart with one plotted point.
About 85 percent of parents could look at a growth chart with one point plotted and correctly identify that the point corresponded to the child's age, according to an online survey of a nationally representative group of 1,000 moms and dads. About two-thirds of parents were able to identify both a child's weight and percentile on a chart with one plotted point.
Teachers May Be Swayed by Child's Reputation
September 26, 2009
Opinions about parents affect how kids are perceived at school, researchers find. Students' reputations, not just their actions, play a role in whether they're judged to be well-behaved at school, say British researchers who studied four classrooms with children aged 4 to 5.
They found that some children have a difficult time being seen as good after they've acquired a poor reputation among teachers and other school staff, classmates and parents. The Manchester Metropolitan University researchers also determined that when children start school, they have to develop skills to interpret and deal with mixed messages about how to behave.
They found that some children have a difficult time being seen as good after they've acquired a poor reputation among teachers and other school staff, classmates and parents. The Manchester Metropolitan University researchers also determined that when children start school, they have to develop skills to interpret and deal with mixed messages about how to behave.
Firm Parents Keep Teen Drivers Safe
September 25, 2009
Supportive rules reduce crashes, drunk driving and cell phone use on the road: studies. Your parenting style can make a huge difference in your teen's safety once he or she gets behind the wheel of a car.
Parents who set firm rules, but do so in a helpful, supportive way, can reduce the likelihood of their teen getting into an auto accident by half and decrease rates of drinking and driving, two new studies find. Positive rule-setting can also increase the odds a teen will wear a seatbelt and lessen the likelihood of talking or texting on a cell phone while driving.
Parents who set firm rules, but do so in a helpful, supportive way, can reduce the likelihood of their teen getting into an auto accident by half and decrease rates of drinking and driving, two new studies find. Positive rule-setting can also increase the odds a teen will wear a seatbelt and lessen the likelihood of talking or texting on a cell phone while driving.
Studies Evaluate Thyroid Treatment During Pregnancy
September 25, 2009
Efforts in U.S. and Europe are testing effects on women and their offspring. Thyroid problems in pregnant women can cause serious consequences in both mothers and children, says an expert familiar with ongoing research into treatments.
An update on clinical trials was to be presented Friday at the annual meeting of the American Thyroid Association, in Palm Beach, Fla.
"Detection and management of thyroid dysfunction during pregnancy is important for many reasons," Dr.
An update on clinical trials was to be presented Friday at the annual meeting of the American Thyroid Association, in Palm Beach, Fla.
"Detection and management of thyroid dysfunction during pregnancy is important for many reasons," Dr.
Spanking May Lower Kids' IQs
September 25, 2009
Experts believe corporal punishment can affect psychological well-being. The bad news is that youngsters who are spanked might lose IQ points.
The good news is that it appears that children's IQs are on the rise .
The good news is that it appears that children's IQs are on the rise .
Antidepressants Linked to Heart Defects in Newborns
September 25, 2009
Certain drugs increase the possibility of septal malformation, researchers find. Women who take certain antidepressants during the first three months of pregnancy may have a slightly increased risk of giving birth to babies with heart defects.
Septal heart defects .
Septal heart defects .
Experimental AIDS Vaccine Delivers Good News
September 24, 2009
Thai trial is first test in humans to show vaccine can work against HIV. In an apparent milestone advance, an experimental AIDS vaccine tested on more than 16,000 young adult volunteers in Thailand cut the risk of infection by a third, researchers reported Thursday.
The researchers acknowledged that the protection offered by the vaccine was relatively modest and did not represent a breakthrough. But the trial results marked a significant gain in the so-far frustrating fight against AIDS, which has killed an estimated 32 million people worldwide since it struck more than a quarter century ago.
The researchers acknowledged that the protection offered by the vaccine was relatively modest and did not represent a breakthrough. But the trial results marked a significant gain in the so-far frustrating fight against AIDS, which has killed an estimated 32 million people worldwide since it struck more than a quarter century ago.
Infant Head-Flattening Linked to Ear Infections
September 24, 2009
Recommended back-sleeping could have downside, study suggests. Infants with severely flat heads caused by their sleep position have a higher-than-normal rate of ear infections, a new study has found.
The recommendation to place babies on their backs to sleep has reduced cases of sudden infant death syndrome but has increased the number of infants with flattening of the back of the head, according to researchers at Wake Forest University Medical Center in North Carolina.
They asked the parents of 1,259 children with what is called positional plagiocephaly about their child's history of ear infections and found that half of the children had at least one ear infection before they were 1 year old.
The recommendation to place babies on their backs to sleep has reduced cases of sudden infant death syndrome but has increased the number of infants with flattening of the back of the head, according to researchers at Wake Forest University Medical Center in North Carolina.
They asked the parents of 1,259 children with what is called positional plagiocephaly about their child's history of ear infections and found that half of the children had at least one ear infection before they were 1 year old.
Injectable Vaccines More Effective for Adult Flu Than Nasal Sprays
September 23, 2009
Results may be different in children and in H1N1 swine flu vaccines, researchers say If you have the choice between a seasonal flu vaccine that comes in a nasal spray or an injection, go for the injection, new research shows.
In a study of adults tracked over one flu season, vaccines made from inactivated, or "killed," flu virus .
In a study of adults tracked over one flu season, vaccines made from inactivated, or "killed," flu virus .
Recession Has Women Rethinking Childbearing
September 23, 2009
But many women are cutting back on birth control to save money, survey finds. Women are postponing pregnancy and having fewer children because of the recession, but just when they need birth control most, many can't pay for it, a new survey finds.
"The recession has impacted much more than people's wallets," said Laura Lindberg, a senior research associate at the Guttmacher Institute, which issued its report Wednesday.
"Women, especially those that are facing financial difficulties, want to avoid an unintended pregnancy more than ever, and many of them are having difficulties affording their contraception to do this," she said.
"The recession has impacted much more than people's wallets," said Laura Lindberg, a senior research associate at the Guttmacher Institute, which issued its report Wednesday.
"Women, especially those that are facing financial difficulties, want to avoid an unintended pregnancy more than ever, and many of them are having difficulties affording their contraception to do this," she said.
Predicting Postpartum Depression May Be Possible
September 23, 2009
Spanish researchers report 80 percent success with their method. Spanish researchers report that they've developed ways to detect 80 percent of cases of postpartum depression, which is estimated to affect more than one in 10 women who give birth.
"Early diagnosis of postnatal [or, postpartum] depression would make it possible to intervene to prevent it from developing among women at risk," Salvador Tortajada, a researcher at the Polytechnic University of Valencia and lead author of a new study on the methodology, said in a news release from the Scientific Information and News Service in Spain.
The researchers examined records on 1,397 Spanish women who gave birth in an 11-month span in seven hospitals.
"Early diagnosis of postnatal [or, postpartum] depression would make it possible to intervene to prevent it from developing among women at risk," Salvador Tortajada, a researcher at the Polytechnic University of Valencia and lead author of a new study on the methodology, said in a news release from the Scientific Information and News Service in Spain.
The researchers examined records on 1,397 Spanish women who gave birth in an 11-month span in seven hospitals.
One Shot May Someday Replace Six for Rabies
September 23, 2009
Experimental vaccine offers hope for millions of people worldwide, researchers say. An experimental rabies vaccine that may require only one injection produced promising results in animals, U.S. researchers report.
Flu Can Raise Chances of Heart Attack
September 22, 2009
Vaccine reduces risk of deaths related to heart disease, study shows. People suffering from the flu may be at higher risk for having a heart attack, especially those with heart disease and diabetes, British researchers report.
Because both seasonal and the pandemic H1N1 swine flu are circulating this fall and winter, people at risk for heart attacks are urged to get a seasonal flu shot and an H1N1 flu shot, which may reduce the chance of getting the flu and thereby lower the risk for a heart attack, experts say.
"Influenza is most concerning because of its secondary complications," said Dr.
Because both seasonal and the pandemic H1N1 swine flu are circulating this fall and winter, people at risk for heart attacks are urged to get a seasonal flu shot and an H1N1 flu shot, which may reduce the chance of getting the flu and thereby lower the risk for a heart attack, experts say.
"Influenza is most concerning because of its secondary complications," said Dr.
Drinking in Adolescence May Lead to Risky Choices Later
September 21, 2009
Study showed young rats made poor decisions long after they were sober. In a study that shows that doing JELL-O shots is never a good idea, adolescent rats that consumed alcohol-laced gel were more likely to make risky decisions long after the alcohol had worn off.
Though the research was done with animals, researchers said human teenagers who drink to excess could experience similar, long-lasting effects.
In the study, researchers assigned young rats to one of two groups.
Though the research was done with animals, researchers said human teenagers who drink to excess could experience similar, long-lasting effects.
In the study, researchers assigned young rats to one of two groups.
1 Swine Flu Shot Enough for Older Kids
September 21, 2009
But children under 10 will need two doses, preliminary U.S. trial results show. Kids who are between 10 and 17 years old will apparently need only one shot of the H1N1 swine flu vaccine, according to initial results of ongoing trials, U.S. health officials announced Monday.
Exercise During Pregnancy Keeps Newborn Size Normal
September 21, 2009
Low-impact aerobics safe, beneficial throughout pregnancy, study suggests. Along with keeping mom healthy, regular exercise during pregnancy helps prevent excessive newborn weight, a new study shows.
Published in the October issue of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Norwegian researchers found that the odds of delivering a too-big baby dropped by as much as 28 percent in women who exercised regularly in their second and third trimesters during their first pregnancy.
"Women often adopt healthier habits before and during pregnancy, like stopping caffeine use.
Published in the October issue of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Norwegian researchers found that the odds of delivering a too-big baby dropped by as much as 28 percent in women who exercised regularly in their second and third trimesters during their first pregnancy.
"Women often adopt healthier habits before and during pregnancy, like stopping caffeine use.
Flying OK for Most Pregnant Women
September 21, 2009
Moms-to-be with no complications are cleared to go, experts say Pregnant women can fly with no worries, as long as they don't have any complications.
That's the message of a revised committee opinion released Sept. 21 by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).
That's the message of a revised committee opinion released Sept. 21 by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).
Health Tip
Counting Baby's Kicks
September 21, 2009
How to keep tabs on baby's movement By the time you reach the 28th week of pregnancy, you should be able to feel your baby rolling, thumping and kicking. To be sure baby is doing well, you can keep track of kick counts.
The Alameda Alliance for Health offers these instructions on measuring baby's kick counts:
Track kick counts each day, measuring them at about the same time each day, when your baby is active.
The Alameda Alliance for Health offers these instructions on measuring baby's kick counts:
Track kick counts each day, measuring them at about the same time each day, when your baby is active.
School Sports May Spell Trouble for Ankles
September 19, 2009
Because children's bones are still developing, injuries require special care, doctors say. The new school year will bring more focus on student athletics .
1st Doses of Swine Flu Vaccine Set for Early October
September 18, 2009
Initial vaccine will be a nasal spray, followed shortly by injectable one: CDC. The first doses of the H1N1 swine flu vaccine will start shipping the first week in October, slightly earlier than expected, U.S. health officials said Friday.
With Alcohol, Starting Young May Lead to Dependency
September 18, 2009
Study suggests teens who drink could trigger genetic predisposition. Teens who start drinking before age 15 could jump-start any genetic conditions they might have that predispose them to developing alcohol dependency, according to an Australian study.
From a biological perspective, taking that first drink at a young age "may induce changes in the highly sensitive adolescent brain, which may also modify an individual's subsequent genetic vulnerability to [alcohol dependence]," Arpana Agrawal, an assistant professor of psychiatry at Washington University School of Medicine and an author of the study, said in a university news release.
The findings, published online Sept.
From a biological perspective, taking that first drink at a young age "may induce changes in the highly sensitive adolescent brain, which may also modify an individual's subsequent genetic vulnerability to [alcohol dependence]," Arpana Agrawal, an assistant professor of psychiatry at Washington University School of Medicine and an author of the study, said in a university news release.
The findings, published online Sept.
Gene Mutation Linked to Fever-Induced Seizures
September 18, 2009
Finding could lead to better treatment options, study suggests. Mutations in a sodium channel gene are associated with fever-induced seizures and a severe form of epilepsy called Dravet syndrome in children 6 months and younger, a new study has found.
American and Dutch researchers studied a large family with a history of febrile seizures and zeroed in on mutations in the SCN9A sodium channel gene. When the mutation was introduced into mice, the rodents had significantly lower thresholds for seizures than those without the mutation.
American and Dutch researchers studied a large family with a history of febrile seizures and zeroed in on mutations in the SCN9A sodium channel gene. When the mutation was introduced into mice, the rodents had significantly lower thresholds for seizures than those without the mutation.
Swine Flu Shots Safe for People With Weak Immune Systems
Experts
September 18, 2009
Another study outlines risks of catching H1N1 from various routes. The H1N1 swine flu vaccines approved this week by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration can be safely used by people with compromised immune systems, according to new recommendations from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.
Progress Made Toward Vaccine for Urinary Infections
September 18, 2009
Tests on mice show success against E. coli, a common cause. A vaccine to prevent urinary tract infections shows early promise in tests on mice, according to University of Michigan researchers.
For two decades, researchers have been trying to develop a vaccine to prevent urinary tract infections, which afflict about 53 percent of women and 14 percent of men at least once in their lives, according to background information in a university news release.
The researchers screened more than 5,000 bacterial proteins and identified three strong candidates to use in a vaccine to fight Escherichia coli, the cause of most uncomplicated urinary tract infections.
For two decades, researchers have been trying to develop a vaccine to prevent urinary tract infections, which afflict about 53 percent of women and 14 percent of men at least once in their lives, according to background information in a university news release.
The researchers screened more than 5,000 bacterial proteins and identified three strong candidates to use in a vaccine to fight Escherichia coli, the cause of most uncomplicated urinary tract infections.
Health Tip
When Bedwetting Signals Another Problem
September 18, 2009
Signs you should call a pediatrician Bedwetting affects many young children and often doesn't indicate a serious medical issue.
However, the Nemours Foundation says, if bedwetting starts all of a sudden or is accompanied by these other factors, it's time to call a pediatrician.
Bedwetting that resumes after a child has had dry nights for at least six months.
However, the Nemours Foundation says, if bedwetting starts all of a sudden or is accompanied by these other factors, it's time to call a pediatrician.
Bedwetting that resumes after a child has had dry nights for at least six months.
More Teens Getting Needed Vaccines
September 17, 2009
But overall rates are still too low, CDC report finds. While vaccination rates for adolescents in the United States are gaining ground, there is still a long way to go to meet Healthy People 2010 goals of 90 percent coverage, a new government report shows.
For the first time, the Healthy People goal was met for measles-mumps-rubella and Hepatitis B vaccinations among teens aged 13 to 15.
But vaccination rates for the three vaccines recommended for teens .
For the first time, the Healthy People goal was met for measles-mumps-rubella and Hepatitis B vaccinations among teens aged 13 to 15.
But vaccination rates for the three vaccines recommended for teens .
Even Small Amounts of Lead Harmful to Kids
September 17, 2009
Current 'safe' levels of exposure set by CDC need to be lowered, experts say Children with blood lead levels well below those considered safe are still at risk for problems with intellectual and emotional development, British researchers report.
Currently, the maximum safe blood level of lead is 10 micrograms per deciliter (10 mcg/dl), which was set by the U.S.
Currently, the maximum safe blood level of lead is 10 micrograms per deciliter (10 mcg/dl), which was set by the U.S.
Teen Birth Rates Higher in States Where Religion Is Widespread
September 17, 2009
Researchers suggest strong disapproval of contraception might be a factor. Teenage birth rates are higher in states with greater levels of religious belief, possibly due to strong disapproval of contraception, a new U.S. study suggests.
Hepatitis B Vaccination Protects Against Liver Cancer
September 16, 2009
Immunization program for newborns has lasting effects beyond childhood, researchers say. Vaccination at birth against hepatitis B virus greatly reduces the risk of liver cancer in young adulthood, new research suggests.
In a 20-year study that followed infants who were vaccinated against the liver disease in Taiwan beginning in 1984, when a universal vaccination program went into effect, Dr. Mei-Hwei Chang, of the Department of Pediatrics at the National Taiwan University Hospital in Taipei, and colleagues looked at young people who had developed liver cancer.
In a 20-year study that followed infants who were vaccinated against the liver disease in Taiwan beginning in 1984, when a universal vaccination program went into effect, Dr. Mei-Hwei Chang, of the Department of Pediatrics at the National Taiwan University Hospital in Taipei, and colleagues looked at young people who had developed liver cancer.
Less TV Brings More Parent-Child Interaction
September 16, 2009
Communication drops by 20% when 'the tube' is on, researchers find. Parent-child interactions suffer when a television is blaring in the background, a new report finds.
The finding is important because more than one-third of American infants and toddlers live in homes where the television is on most or all the time, even if no one's watching, researchers say.
In the study, published in the September/October issue of the journal Child Development, a team at the University of Massachusetts observed about 50 children, aged 1, 2 and 3 years, who were with a parent at a university child study center.
The finding is important because more than one-third of American infants and toddlers live in homes where the television is on most or all the time, even if no one's watching, researchers say.
In the study, published in the September/October issue of the journal Child Development, a team at the University of Massachusetts observed about 50 children, aged 1, 2 and 3 years, who were with a parent at a university child study center.
Better Day Care, Smarter Kids?
September 16, 2009
High-quality child care offsets deficits of poverty, study finds. Scientists have long known that poverty can inhibit a child's intellectual development. But now researchers have found a possible equalizer .
Early Spankings Make for Aggressive Toddlers, Study Shows
September 15, 2009
Kids spanked at age 1 also had worse performance on cognitive tests at age 3. Children who are spanked as 1-year-olds are more likely to behave aggressively and perform worse on cognitive tests as toddlers than children who are spared the punishment, new research shows.
Though the negative effects of spanking were "modest," the study adds to a growing body of literature that's finding spanking isn't good for children.
"Age 1 is a key time for establishing the quality of the parenting and the relationship between parent and the child," said study author Lisa J.
Though the negative effects of spanking were "modest," the study adds to a growing body of literature that's finding spanking isn't good for children.
"Age 1 is a key time for establishing the quality of the parenting and the relationship between parent and the child," said study author Lisa J.
Showerheads Harbor a Bounty of Germs
September 14, 2009
But only people with weakened immune systems should worry, study says. If your immune system is weakened, you may want to rethink that daily shower.
New research suggests that ordinary showerheads are awash in germs, particularly a type that can cause lung disease in people whose immunity to illness is compromised.
The germs could be "blasted out of the showerhead and inhaled by the person showering," said study co-author Leah M.
New research suggests that ordinary showerheads are awash in germs, particularly a type that can cause lung disease in people whose immunity to illness is compromised.
The germs could be "blasted out of the showerhead and inhaled by the person showering," said study co-author Leah M.
Very Small Head Size Could Signal Problems in Newborns
September 14, 2009
Early screening urged for detection of epilepsy and other health issues, experts say. Children born with a much smaller-than-average head size are more likely to have neurological and cognitive problems, and should be screened for them, new guidelines suggest.
The guidelines, developed by the American Academy of Neurology and the Child Neurology Society, appear in the Sept. 15 issue of Neurology.
The guidelines, developed by the American Academy of Neurology and the Child Neurology Society, appear in the Sept. 15 issue of Neurology.
Chlorine in Pools Raises Kids' Asthma, Allergy Risk
September 14, 2009
Too many homes over-treat their pools, boosting the odds, experts say. Swimming in pools disinfected with chlorine may increase the odds that a child will develop asthma or allergies, new research suggests.
The study found that teenagers who spent more than 1,000 hours swimming in chlorinated pools, either indoors or outdoors, had more than eight times the risk of having asthma than did teens who primarily swam in pools using a copper-silver disinfecting method.
"Chlorinated pool attendance has a very significant impact on the prevalence of allergic diseases in the studied population," said lead author Alfred Bernard, a professor of toxicology and research director at Catholic University of Louvain in Brussels, Belgium.
The study found that teenagers who spent more than 1,000 hours swimming in chlorinated pools, either indoors or outdoors, had more than eight times the risk of having asthma than did teens who primarily swam in pools using a copper-silver disinfecting method.
"Chlorinated pool attendance has a very significant impact on the prevalence of allergic diseases in the studied population," said lead author Alfred Bernard, a professor of toxicology and research director at Catholic University of Louvain in Brussels, Belgium.
Swine Flu Trials Continue to Point to 1-Dose Vaccine
September 11, 2009
U.S. reports unusually high flu activity, most of it swine variety. U.S. health officials said Friday that additional trials of the H1N1 swine flu vaccine continue to find that a single dose produces a strong immune response in healthy adults.
Actress Helps Promote New Campaign for Meningitis Vaccine
September 11, 2009
Rare, often deadly, infection tends to strike young adults, expert says. While public attention has been focused on getting vaccinated for both the seasonal flu and H1N1 swine flu this fall, a nationwide effort has been launched to highlight the need to be vaccinated against meningococcal meningitis, a rare and sometimes deadly infection that tends to strike teenagers and college students.
Labeled the "Voice of Meningitis," the campaign was launched recently by the National Association of School Nurses (NASN) to educate parents about the availability of a safe and effective inoculation against this fast-moving disease, which at its worst can cripple or even kill an affected young person in as little as 24 hours following the initial onset of flu-like symptoms.
"I was approached about three to four months ago to be the spokesperson for the 'Voice of Meningitis' campaign," explained actress Lori Loughlin, star of both the TV sitcom "Full House" and the new CW network incarnation of the popular series "90210.
Labeled the "Voice of Meningitis," the campaign was launched recently by the National Association of School Nurses (NASN) to educate parents about the availability of a safe and effective inoculation against this fast-moving disease, which at its worst can cripple or even kill an affected young person in as little as 24 hours following the initial onset of flu-like symptoms.
"I was approached about three to four months ago to be the spokesperson for the 'Voice of Meningitis' campaign," explained actress Lori Loughlin, star of both the TV sitcom "Full House" and the new CW network incarnation of the popular series "90210.
Health Tip
Are You Pregnant and Depressed?
September 11, 2009
Certain factors may increase your risk Many women become depressed while they are pregnant, or shortly after the baby is born.
The U.S.
The U.S.
One Dose of Swine Flu Vaccine Offers Protection
Studies
September 11, 2009
Findings could expand vaccine supply and speed immunity, experts say. Preliminary tests of an H1N1 swine flu vaccine conducted in Australia and Britain show that a single dose creates enough antibodies to protect against the virus within about 10 days.
That's a potentially significant development, because it was thought that two shots would be needed to provide full immunity to the virus. A one-dose protocol would greatly expand the supply of vaccine and hasten individual immunity.
That's a potentially significant development, because it was thought that two shots would be needed to provide full immunity to the virus. A one-dose protocol would greatly expand the supply of vaccine and hasten individual immunity.
Get Your Vaccine for Seasonal Flu, Experts Urge
September 10, 2009
The regular winter scourge poses a potential threat, just like swine flu. Swine flu may be grabbing all the headlines, but seasonal flu poses a real threat this fall, too.
And the time to act is now, by getting a seasonal flu shot. Then follow it up with an H1N1 swine flu vaccine when the first shipments arrive in mid-October.
And the time to act is now, by getting a seasonal flu shot. Then follow it up with an H1N1 swine flu vaccine when the first shipments arrive in mid-October.
Swine Flu Shots May Come Too Late to Stem Fall Outbreak
Study
September 10, 2009
Scientists' projections have infections peaking in mid-October, ahead of vaccine delivery. The height of this year's fall H1N1 swine flu outbreak is expected in October, but a planned vaccine may arrive too late to stop it, a new study suggests.
The first batch of the new H1N1 vaccine, totaling only 45 million doses, is not expected before mid-October, according to the U.S.
The first batch of the new H1N1 vaccine, totaling only 45 million doses, is not expected before mid-October, according to the U.S.
Research Seeks Cause of Preeclampsia
September 10, 2009
Focus is system that regulates blood pressure and fluid retention in pregnant women. New research is shedding some light on the development of preeclampaia, a dangerous condition that can cause miscarriage and death in pregnant women.
"Preeclampsia is a very serious condition that affects seven to 10 percent of all pregnancies in the United States," study author K. Bridget Brosnihan, a professor at Wake Forest University School of Medicine's Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, said in a news release.
"Preeclampsia is a very serious condition that affects seven to 10 percent of all pregnancies in the United States," study author K. Bridget Brosnihan, a professor at Wake Forest University School of Medicine's Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, said in a news release.
Health Tip
If You Smoke While Pregnant
September 10, 2009
You and baby are more likely to have problems If you smoke while pregnant, you're exposing the baby to a host of dangerous chemicals, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says. And the nicotine in tobacco causes less oxygen and nutrients to reach the baby.
The ACOG says these problems are more likely to affect pregnant women who smoke:
Ectopic pregnancy, where the fertilized egg begins to develop outside the uterus.
The ACOG says these problems are more likely to affect pregnant women who smoke:
Ectopic pregnancy, where the fertilized egg begins to develop outside the uterus.
New Vaccine May Work Better Against Lung Disease
September 09, 2009
Different formulation seems to thwart pneumonia in high-risk group with COPD, study finds. A recently developed pneumonia vaccine may be more effective in preventing infections in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) than the vaccine that is typically used, new research suggests.
Risk of pneumonia can be an ongoing problem for people with COPD, a chronic, progressive disease that causes difficulty breathing and chest tightness. The U.
Risk of pneumonia can be an ongoing problem for people with COPD, a chronic, progressive disease that causes difficulty breathing and chest tightness. The U.
Some Parents Aren't Giving Kids Pain Meds Post-Surgery
September 09, 2009
Fears of addiction or underestimation of child's discomfort may be to blame, experts say. Twenty-five percent of children aren't getting sufficient pain medication from their parents after common surgical procedures, such as having their tonsils out, a new study finds.
It's not clear at this point what the ramifications of the finding are, or the reasons for it.
In a worst-case scenario, kids who don't get enough medication may not be able to swallow enough water, leading to dehydration and even hospitalization, said Dr.
It's not clear at this point what the ramifications of the finding are, or the reasons for it.
In a worst-case scenario, kids who don't get enough medication may not be able to swallow enough water, leading to dehydration and even hospitalization, said Dr.
Day Care May Not Shield Kids From Asthma, Allergies
September 09, 2009
Study debunks 'hygiene hypothesis' that early exposures boost immune response. Early day care, so the story goes, exposes kids to more germs and illnesses at an early age, thereby protecting them from asthma and allergies later on.
Scientists call it the ''hygiene hypothesis," but a new study casts doubt on its existence and finds early infections have no effect on asthma and allergy rates at age 8.
An unexplained increase in asthma among children in both industrialized countries and developing nations has scientists searching for ways to reduce the disease.
Scientists call it the ''hygiene hypothesis," but a new study casts doubt on its existence and finds early infections have no effect on asthma and allergy rates at age 8.
An unexplained increase in asthma among children in both industrialized countries and developing nations has scientists searching for ways to reduce the disease.
FDA Panel Backs Giving HPV Vaccine Gardasil to Young Males
September 10, 2009
The advisors also recommend approval of second HPV vaccine, Cervarix, to prevent cervical cancer. U.S. drug advisors recommended Wednesday that use of the vaccine Gardasil, already administered to help prevent cervical cancer in women, be expanded to help prevent genital warts in young males.
Motivation May Be at Root of ADHD
September 08, 2009
Scans suggest that symptoms stem from deficits in brain's rewards system. The trouble concentrating that affects people with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) might be related to motivation, a new study has found.
The motivational problems seen with the condition, which is often associated with children but can persist into adulthood, appear to stem from a reduction in dopamine, an important neurotransmitter in the nervous system that is considered a hallmark of ADHD.
"ADHD is traditionally a disease where people think the disruption is in attention and hyperactivity," said Dr.
The motivational problems seen with the condition, which is often associated with children but can persist into adulthood, appear to stem from a reduction in dopamine, an important neurotransmitter in the nervous system that is considered a hallmark of ADHD.
"ADHD is traditionally a disease where people think the disruption is in attention and hyperactivity," said Dr.
Program Curbs Teen Substance Abuse, Delinquency
September 08, 2009
Prevention efforts focused on the community pay off, study finds. consumption of at least five alcoholic beverages in one sitting .
Single Parents May Do as Well as Two
Study
September 05, 2009
Family stability may be more crucial than dual parents for child's success. Family stability .
Moms-to-Be Need Facts on Pain Control
September 04, 2009
Public campaign aims to dispel misinformation, educate women about their choices. Expectant mothers should be informed about all of the pain management options available to them during labor and delivery, according to the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA).
Over the past three decades, major advances have been made in labor and delivery pain control, Dr. Craig Palmer, chairman of the ASA's committee on obstetrical anesthesia, explained in a news release from the society.
Over the past three decades, major advances have been made in labor and delivery pain control, Dr. Craig Palmer, chairman of the ASA's committee on obstetrical anesthesia, explained in a news release from the society.
Depressed Teens Continue to Suffer
September 04, 2009
Those with mild depression more likely to suffer major episode later, researchers say. Mildly depressed teenagers are more likely to have major depression, anxiety disorders and eating disorders as adults, a new study suggests.
In 1983, researchers interviewed 755 teenagers who were about age 16 about mood, anxiety and eating disorders, disruptive behaviors and substance abuse.
About 8 percent were found to have minor depression, defined as feeling down, losing interest in normal activities, and having insomnia or difficulty concentrating for two weeks or more.
In 1983, researchers interviewed 755 teenagers who were about age 16 about mood, anxiety and eating disorders, disruptive behaviors and substance abuse.
About 8 percent were found to have minor depression, defined as feeling down, losing interest in normal activities, and having insomnia or difficulty concentrating for two weeks or more.
Swine Flu Poses Risk to Kids With Neurological Conditions
September 03, 2009
But U.S. officials say death rate seems no higher than with seasonal flu. Nearly 500 Americans have died of complications from the H1N1 swine flu since the virus first surfaced last spring, including at least 36 children younger than 18, a new government report shows.
And 67 percent of those children who died had at least one chronic high-risk "neurodevelopmental condition," such as epilepsy, cerebral palsy or developmental delay, U.S.
And 67 percent of those children who died had at least one chronic high-risk "neurodevelopmental condition," such as epilepsy, cerebral palsy or developmental delay, U.S.
Discoveries Brighten Search for AIDS Vaccine
September 03, 2009
Two antibodies appear effective against HIV subtypes worldwide, team says. After recent setbacks, the search for an effective AIDS vaccine may have gotten a much needed shot in the arm with the discovery of two highly potent targets for immunization.
A team coordinated by the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI) says it has discovered two immune-system antibodies in the blood of an African person with HIV that might offer protection against strains of the virus circulating worldwide.
These antibodies target a spot on HIV that is both easily accessed and "highly conserved," meaning it does not seem to change over time.
A team coordinated by the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI) says it has discovered two immune-system antibodies in the blood of an African person with HIV that might offer protection against strains of the virus circulating worldwide.
These antibodies target a spot on HIV that is both easily accessed and "highly conserved," meaning it does not seem to change over time.
Health Tip
Taking a Childbirth Class
September 03, 2009
Here's a list of potential benefits With all of necessary tasks to prepare for a new baby, you might wonder about the merits of going back to school.
The Nemours Foundation offers these potential benefits from taking a childbirth class:
Learn about baby's development and a healthy pregnancy.
Learn about warning signs of a potential problem.
The Nemours Foundation offers these potential benefits from taking a childbirth class:
Learn about baby's development and a healthy pregnancy.
Learn about warning signs of a potential problem.
Health Tip
Eating Fish and Shellfish
September 03, 2009
Almost all contain mercury Mercury is an element found in the environment, from natural sources and as a byproduct of man-made pollution.
Mercury seeps into the soil and water, contaminating some of the foods people eat, the National Women's Health Information Center says.
Almost all types of shellfish and fish contain some mercury.
Mercury seeps into the soil and water, contaminating some of the foods people eat, the National Women's Health Information Center says.
Almost all types of shellfish and fish contain some mercury.
Take the Load Off Your Child's Back
September 03, 2009
To avoid injuries, watch backpack weight and fit, expert suggests. A backpack can be a great help to school children, but it needs to fit properly to avoid a lifetime of hurt, health-care professionals say.
"If too heavy or worn incorrectly, backpacks can strain muscles and joints and cause serious back pain," Paula Kramer, who chairs the occupational therapy department at the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, warned in a news release from the university.
Backpack-related injuries resulted in 7,300 emergency room visits in 2006, according to the U.
"If too heavy or worn incorrectly, backpacks can strain muscles and joints and cause serious back pain," Paula Kramer, who chairs the occupational therapy department at the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, warned in a news release from the university.
Backpack-related injuries resulted in 7,300 emergency room visits in 2006, according to the U.
Kids Need More Than Sports for Positive Growth
September 02, 2009
Engaging in youth development programs produces caring, competent teens, research finds. If you want your children to flourish, get them involved in extracurricular activities other than sports, new research suggests.
Children in fifth, sixth and seventh grades who took part in both sports and after-school activities such as Boys & Girls Clubs, 4-H or Scouts had the highest scores for "positive development" and the lowest scores for risky and problem behavior, according to a study from Tufts University, published recently in Developmental Psychology.
"Positive development" includes measures of competence, confidence, character, connection and caring, the study authors explained.
Children in fifth, sixth and seventh grades who took part in both sports and after-school activities such as Boys & Girls Clubs, 4-H or Scouts had the highest scores for "positive development" and the lowest scores for risky and problem behavior, according to a study from Tufts University, published recently in Developmental Psychology.
"Positive development" includes measures of competence, confidence, character, connection and caring, the study authors explained.
Weight-Loss Surgery Breaks Families' 'Obesity Cycle'
September 02, 2009
Moms operated on before pregnancy had thinner children, study found. Obese mothers have children who are likely to be obese, but a new study concludes that weight-loss surgery can break the cycle.
Researchers found that women who had weight-loss surgery before becoming pregnant had children who were less likely to be heavy when compared with siblings who were born before the weight-loss surgery.
The study findings show the importance of the intrauterine environment, which seems to trump even genes and the environment in which the child is raised.
Researchers found that women who had weight-loss surgery before becoming pregnant had children who were less likely to be heavy when compared with siblings who were born before the weight-loss surgery.
The study findings show the importance of the intrauterine environment, which seems to trump even genes and the environment in which the child is raised.
New Technique Offers Hope for Kids With Immune Deficiency
September 02, 2009
Stem-cell transplant without chemo can help avoid treatment toxicity, research shows. For children born with immunodeficiencies, researchers may have found a better way for them to get the help they need from stem-cell transplants.
A regimen using antibodies instead of high-dose chemotherapy may help even in the sickest children, according to Dr. Persis J.
A regimen using antibodies instead of high-dose chemotherapy may help even in the sickest children, according to Dr. Persis J.
Keep Your Flu Shots Straight This Fall
September 02, 2009
What you need to know about vaccinations for swine flu, regular flu. This fall, Americans will face a double challenge in getting shots for two strains of flu .
Swine Flu May Be Less Dangerous Than Predicted
Study
September 01, 2009
Researchers challenge 'superbug theory' in animal tests using three flu strains. Fears that the H1N1 swine flu will turn into a "superbug" this year may be unfounded, say researchers at the University of Maryland.
In laboratory tests, the virus responsible for the swine flu pandemic did not take a virulent turn when combined with other strains of seasonal flu. But it did spread more rapidly than the other viruses, confirming the need for swine flu vaccinations, the researchers said.
In laboratory tests, the virus responsible for the swine flu pandemic did not take a virulent turn when combined with other strains of seasonal flu. But it did spread more rapidly than the other viruses, confirming the need for swine flu vaccinations, the researchers said.
Swine Flu on Campuses Boosts Call for Vaccinations
September 01, 2009
Officials expect return of virus that first surfaced last spring. As clusters of H1N1 swine flu break out on U.S. college campuses, school administrators are beefing up efforts to encourage students to take preventative steps to keep the virus from spreading further.
Exposure to Tobacco Smoke Before Birth Affects DNA
August 31, 2009
Cigarettes may trigger prenatal gene changes, leading to lifelong health problems, study suggests. Women who smoke while pregnant increase their unborn child's long-term risk for health problems, including childhood asthma, cardiovascular disease and lower pulmonary function, and a new study may help experts understand why.
Researchers at the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California (USC) found that maternal smoking actually changes the unborn child's DNA patterns.
The new study found that fetal exposure to maternal smoking was linked to differences in DNA methylation, an epigenetic mechanism.
Researchers at the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California (USC) found that maternal smoking actually changes the unborn child's DNA patterns.
The new study found that fetal exposure to maternal smoking was linked to differences in DNA methylation, an epigenetic mechanism.
Home Birth With Midwife As Safe As Hospital Birth
Study
August 31, 2009
Canadian researchers find lower rate of complications. Having your baby at home with a registered midwife is just as safe as a conventional hospital birth, a new study says.
In fact, planned home births of this kind may have a lower rate of complications, according to the study published in the Sept. 15 issue of CMAJ.
In fact, planned home births of this kind may have a lower rate of complications, according to the study published in the Sept. 15 issue of CMAJ.
Is Eye Exam on Your Back-to-School List?
August 31, 2009
Kids should have first vision screening at 6 months of age, optometrists say. Parents should add an eye exam to their children's back-to-school list, experts say.
Studies show that 86 percent of children start school without ever having an eye examination, even though youngsters can't learn if they can't see properly.
According to the American Optometric Association's 2009 survey, which assesses the knowledge and understanding of issues related to eye and visual health, 88 percent of respondents were unaware that one in four students has a visual impairment.
Studies show that 86 percent of children start school without ever having an eye examination, even though youngsters can't learn if they can't see properly.
According to the American Optometric Association's 2009 survey, which assesses the knowledge and understanding of issues related to eye and visual health, 88 percent of respondents were unaware that one in four students has a visual impairment.
Young Athletes at Risk of Heat Injury
August 30, 2009
Sports medicine experts issue hot-weather guidelines for coaches. Young football players and other athletes face the risk of major heat injury and illness if they push themselves too hard in hot weather, warn sports medicine experts.
"Football might get the most attention for severe heat-related injuries and illnesses, but the risk in other sports is very real," Michael F. Bergeron, a youth-sports heat stress expert and co-author of the American College of Sports Medicine consensus statement, said in a news release.
"Football might get the most attention for severe heat-related injuries and illnesses, but the risk in other sports is very real," Michael F. Bergeron, a youth-sports heat stress expert and co-author of the American College of Sports Medicine consensus statement, said in a news release.
Family Issues Translate Into Sick Days at Work
August 28, 2009
Employees juggling job-family conflicts have higher absentee rate, research shows. When home and family issues interfere with work, employees take more sick days, a new study has found.
Belgian researchers assessed work-family conflict among nearly 3,000 workers and found that absenteeism was higher for those who reported that problems at home were interfering with work. These employees felt the demands they faced at home made them tired at work.
Belgian researchers assessed work-family conflict among nearly 3,000 workers and found that absenteeism was higher for those who reported that problems at home were interfering with work. These employees felt the demands they faced at home made them tired at work.
Kristi Yamaguchi, Olympic Ice Skater, Pushes Seasonal Flu Shots
August 28, 2009
She reminds public there's more than swine flu circulating out there. Olympic gold medal figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi is teaming up with U.S. health experts to deliver a simple and important message as flu season approaches: With all the hype around the H1N1 swine flu, don't forget to get a shot against the seasonal flu.
Health Tip
Resting in Bed During Pregnancy
August 28, 2009
Suggestions to make use of the time For various reasons, your doctor may recommend bed rest during pregnancy.
The Nemours Foundation offers these suggestions for making the most of your time on bed rest:
Create a schedule, even if it revolves around staying in bed. Wake up at the same time each day, bathe and get dressed, and develop other routines.
The Nemours Foundation offers these suggestions for making the most of your time on bed rest:
Create a schedule, even if it revolves around staying in bed. Wake up at the same time each day, bathe and get dressed, and develop other routines.
U.S. Childhood Vaccine Rates Good But Could Be Better
CDC
August 27, 2009
Compliance still high and stable, but more coverage needed among poor, report finds. More than three-quarters of U.S. children have received the recommended vaccinations, but greater efforts are needed to reach youngsters who are not fully immunized, a U.
Another Report Finds Swine Flu Targeting the Young
August 27, 2009
But health experts emphasize that most infections are relatively benign. As U.S. health officials brace for the expected return of the H1N1 swine flu this fall, much of the focus has been on children and young adults, who seem particularly vulnerable to the newly identified virus.
Gene 'Fix' in Egg Prevents Inherited Diseases in Monkeys
August 26, 2009
But the technique is bound to be controversial if tried in humans, experts warn. A genetic tweak of the unfertilized eggs of macaque monkeys effectively prevented the transmission of diseases typically passed down through the maternal line, U.S. scientists reported.
Many Health-Care Workers May Shun Swine Flu Shot
August 26, 2009
Hong Kong study finds some fear side effects, question benefits. Despite fears of an impending swine flu pandemic this fall and winter, more than half of all health-care workers surveyed in Hong Kong said they will not get vaccinated.
Their reason: fear of possible side effects and doubts about the vaccine's efficacy, according to Chinese research reported online Aug. 26 by the journal BMJ.
Their reason: fear of possible side effects and doubts about the vaccine's efficacy, according to Chinese research reported online Aug. 26 by the journal BMJ.
Health Tip
When Labor May Be Induced
August 26, 2009
Factors that may cause doctors to bring on labor Labor is induced in about 20 percent of U.S. pregnant women, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says.
HPV Vaccine Could Prevent Many Penile Cancers
August 25, 2009
Nearly half of the tumors are caused by strains covered by the shot, study finds. The human papillomavirus (HPV) causes about half of penile cancer cases in the world, and giving vaccines to males could greatly reduce the incidence of the disease, a new study suggests.
Penile cancer remains rare, accounting for less than 1 percent of adult male cancers in North America and Europe, but that rate jumps to as high as 10 percent in Africa and Asia, according to Spanish researchers reporting online Aug. 25 in the Journal of Clinical Pathology.
Penile cancer remains rare, accounting for less than 1 percent of adult male cancers in North America and Europe, but that rate jumps to as high as 10 percent in Africa and Asia, according to Spanish researchers reporting online Aug. 25 in the Journal of Clinical Pathology.
Nick Jonas
Livin' the Dream Despite Diabetes
August 25, 2009
Youngest member of popular Jonas Brothers band speaks about life with the condition. In November 2005, Nick Jonas was only 13, but on the cusp of living a life that most people just dream about. He and his brothers had landed a recording contract and were touring from city to city when his family noticed that something was wrong.
Jonas had suddenly lost a lot of weight .
Jonas had suddenly lost a lot of weight .
Preemie Birth Could Mean Weaker Bones as Adults
August 25, 2009
Small babies at risk for osteoporosis decades later, study finds. Adults who were born preterm with a very low birth weight have significantly lower bone mineral density than those who were born at full term, a Finnish study has found.
The researchers evaluated the skeletal health of 144 adults, aged 18 to 27, who were born preterm with very low birth weight.
Because they have much lower bone mineral density, these adults may be at increased risk for osteoporosis, said Dr.
The researchers evaluated the skeletal health of 144 adults, aged 18 to 27, who were born preterm with very low birth weight.
Because they have much lower bone mineral density, these adults may be at increased risk for osteoporosis, said Dr.
Car Seats Can Limit Kids' Oxygen Supplies
August 24, 2009
Experts say risk is small but warrants reminder about proper use. Kids should be put in car seats only when traveling, not while sleeping or "hanging out" at home, child health experts warn.
That's because sitting upright in a car seat .
That's because sitting upright in a car seat .
Glucose Challenge in Pregnancy Could Predict Heart Disease
August 24, 2009
Abnormal test results in those without gestational diabetes signals future heart risk, researcher says. A glucose challenge test given to pregnant women may also show if they have an increased risk of heart disease in the future, a new study has found.
This finding is important because doctors might be able to begin using current screening procedures for gestational diabetes to identify women who are at risk for developing heart disease later in life, the researchers said. Heart disease is the number-one killer of women in the United States and Canada.
This finding is important because doctors might be able to begin using current screening procedures for gestational diabetes to identify women who are at risk for developing heart disease later in life, the researchers said. Heart disease is the number-one killer of women in the United States and Canada.
Not Everyone Wants to Be Vaccinated Against Pandemic Flu
August 24, 2009
But personal hygiene prevention methods are not enough, experts warn. Some people may refuse to get vaccinated against a pandemic virus if they believe the risks outweigh the benefits, suggests a new study.
Canadian researchers conducted 11 focus groups in Vancouver before the start of the current swine flu pandemic. Participants were asked how willing they'd be to receive a new vaccine in the event of a pandemic.
Canadian researchers conducted 11 focus groups in Vancouver before the start of the current swine flu pandemic. Participants were asked how willing they'd be to receive a new vaccine in the event of a pandemic.
Going Back to School With Asthma Takes Extra Work
August 22, 2009
Lung association recommends flu shots, check-ups and communication with school staff. There are a number of ways that parents of children with asthma can prepare for flu season and the new school year, says the American Lung Association.
"Good hygiene is the best and first line of defense against any type of cold or flu. This includes frequent handwashing and covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing," Dr.
"Good hygiene is the best and first line of defense against any type of cold or flu. This includes frequent handwashing and covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing," Dr.
Folic Acid Fortification Shouldn't Be Forced
August 21, 2009
Irish researchers find vitamin levels in foods adequate for new moms, babies. Mandatory fortification of foods with folic acid (vitamin B9) may be unnecessary for new mothers and their babies, Irish researchers report.
Their study of blood samples found that most new moms and babies get enough folic acid from foods that are voluntarily fortified by food companies.
Consuming adequate amounts of folic acid before and during pregnancy helps reduce the risk of certain birth defects, such as spina bifida.
Their study of blood samples found that most new moms and babies get enough folic acid from foods that are voluntarily fortified by food companies.
Consuming adequate amounts of folic acid before and during pregnancy helps reduce the risk of certain birth defects, such as spina bifida.
Health Tip
What Are Risk Factors for Preterm Labor?
August 21, 2009
Things that may cause labor to start too soon A typical pregnancy lasts 40 weeks. If labor begins before 37 weeks, it's known as preterm labor.
Being born too early can cause a host of complications, ranging from slow growth to problems with the eyes, ears, breathing and nervous system, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) says.
Being born too early can cause a host of complications, ranging from slow growth to problems with the eyes, ears, breathing and nervous system, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) says.
Teen Athletes Sleep Better Than Couch Potatoes
August 20, 2009
They also report higher energy during the day and greater ability to concentrate. Athletic teens sleep better than their couch-potato peers and have fewer problems concentrating at school, a new study finds.
Researchers in Switzerland asked 434 adolescents with an average age of 17 to keep a log of their sleep and daytime habits for one week. The 258 student athletes, part of the "Swiss Olympic Classes," exercised about 17.
Researchers in Switzerland asked 434 adolescents with an average age of 17 to keep a log of their sleep and daytime habits for one week. The 258 student athletes, part of the "Swiss Olympic Classes," exercised about 17.
School Kids, Parents Should Get Flu Vaccines First
August 20, 2009
Study shows targeting 'super-spreaders' protects most vulnerable in end. The best way to stop the spread of flu, be it the seasonal flu or swine flu, is to vaccinate those most likely to spread the virus, namely school children and their parents, new research suggests.
These recommendations run counter to those of the U.S.
These recommendations run counter to those of the U.S.
New Hib Vaccine Granted Accelerated Approval
August 20, 2009
To help remedy vaccine shortage Accelerated approval for Hiberix, a Haemophilus b Conjugate Vaccine, has been granted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, drug maker GlaxoSmithKline said.
Swine Flu Vaccine Delay Manageable, Experts Say
August 20, 2009
Having 45 million doses by Oct. 15 will still be useful, they stress. Health experts do not believe that the delay in receiving swine flu vaccine will thwart the U.S. government's strategy to protect Americans against the newly circulating virus.
Patch 'Shots' May Someday Replace Injections
August 19, 2009
Microneedles could deliver meds safely and painlessly, researchers say. A skin patch lined with "microneedles" may someday offer a painless alternative to hypodermic needles, according to scientists working on the concept.
The technique could make flu shots a thing of the past, and treatment of diseases such as diabetes safer and more effective, the researchers said. Their work was to be presented Aug.
The technique could make flu shots a thing of the past, and treatment of diseases such as diabetes safer and more effective, the researchers said. Their work was to be presented Aug.
Induced Labor May Prevent Need for Cesarean Section
August 18, 2009
Elective induction at 41 weeks led to fewer surgical deliveries, review shows. Inducing labor doesn't necessarily increase the risk of Cesarean section delivery, according to a study that challenges the widely held opinion.
Researchers reviewed available data on elective induction, in which women choose to have labor induced rather than requiring it for medical reasons. Most of the studies included women who were about one week past their due date.
Researchers reviewed available data on elective induction, in which women choose to have labor induced rather than requiring it for medical reasons. Most of the studies included women who were about one week past their due date.
Cervical Cancer Vaccine Seems Safe
August 18, 2009
Fainting most common adverse event with Gardasil, study finds. The vaccine that protects against human papillomavirus (HPV), a cause of cervical cancer, appears safe, with relatively few serious side effects, according to a new U.S. government study.
'Cruise Ship Virus' Vaccine Stems From Tobacco
August 18, 2009
Benefits for fighting norovirus include cost, speed, report shows. Scientists have developed a vaccine for the common viral infection norovirus from a novel source: a tobacco plant.
The new vaccine was "manufactured" in a tobacco plant using a bioengineered plant virus.
This plant biotechnology opens the door to faster, more inexpensive ways to bring vaccines to the public quickly, especially in times when viruses mutate into unpredictable new strains, said Charles Arntzen, who reported on the vaccine at the American Chemical Society annual meeting, in Washingtopn, D.
The new vaccine was "manufactured" in a tobacco plant using a bioengineered plant virus.
This plant biotechnology opens the door to faster, more inexpensive ways to bring vaccines to the public quickly, especially in times when viruses mutate into unpredictable new strains, said Charles Arntzen, who reported on the vaccine at the American Chemical Society annual meeting, in Washingtopn, D.
For Short Kids, No Lack of Self-Esteem
August 17, 2009
Despite some parents' worries, study finds small stature not a problem. For parents who worry that their short child will be psychologically damaged from merciless teasing, a new study provides reassurance that there will likely be no lasting effects from any exposure to short jokes.
The study, which appears in the September issue of Pediatrics, found that short children reported being teased only slightly more than their peers, but such teasing didn't appear to affect their popularity or relationships with other children. And, short children were no more likely than their peers to have symptoms of depression.
The study, which appears in the September issue of Pediatrics, found that short children reported being teased only slightly more than their peers, but such teasing didn't appear to affect their popularity or relationships with other children. And, short children were no more likely than their peers to have symptoms of depression.
Kids of Deployed Soldiers Vulnerable to Stress
August 14, 2009
Study found one-third were at risk for psychosocial problems. About one-third of children of deployed U.S. Army soldiers are at high risk for psychosocial problems, mainly due to high levels of stress experienced by the parent who is still at home, a new study shows.
Low Choline Level in Pregnancy Tied to Birth Defects
August 14, 2009
Anencephaly, spina bifida linked to nutrient found in foods, study shows. Low blood levels of the nutrient choline during pregnancy increases the risk of brain and spinal-cord defects in newborns, U.S. researchers report.
Some Birth Control Pills Safer Than Others
August 14, 2009
European studies find types of hormones used raise or lower clot risk. The composition of a woman's contraceptive pill influences her risk of developing blood clots of the leg and lung, European researchers say.
Scientists have long known that oral contraceptives, which contain the female hormones estrogen and progestogen, increase the likelihood of deep vein thrombosis of the leg and pulmonary embolism, but new studies in Denmark and the Netherlands determined that some pills are safer than others. Neither study received funding from any companies that make oral contraceptives.
Scientists have long known that oral contraceptives, which contain the female hormones estrogen and progestogen, increase the likelihood of deep vein thrombosis of the leg and pulmonary embolism, but new studies in Denmark and the Netherlands determined that some pills are safer than others. Neither study received funding from any companies that make oral contraceptives.
It's Time for More Moms to Breast-Feed, U.S. Officials Say
August 13, 2009
Experts note rates are too low when benefits are so high. With breast-feeding rates still not at the levels health-care providers and policymakers would like, two U.S. health agencies have decided it's time to take action.
Injections May Benefit Oxygen-Deprived Newborns
August 13, 2009
Hormone treatment improved prognosis in moderate cases, study shows. A new hormone treatment to prevent brain damage in oxygen-deprived newborns shows promise, a study has found.
Currently, immediate cooling is the only way to reduce the risk of brain damage in newborns who suffered oxygen deprivation during delivery. The new method, which can be started as late as two days after birth, involves a two-week course of injections of erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell formation, the researchers explained.
Currently, immediate cooling is the only way to reduce the risk of brain damage in newborns who suffered oxygen deprivation during delivery. The new method, which can be started as late as two days after birth, involves a two-week course of injections of erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell formation, the researchers explained.
Experts Urge Cognitive Testing of Kids With Epilepsy
August 12, 2009
Underlying brain abnormalities may cause learning problems, study finds. Children recently diagnosed with epilepsy should have their language, memory, learning and other cognitive skills tested because they're at increased risk for problems, say U.S. researchers.
U.S. Women Delaying Motherhood, Report Shows
August 12, 2009
Average age of first birth now 25, a 3.6-year increase in age since 1970. New mothers are getting older.
In the United States, the average age of women giving birth for the first time rose from 21.4 years in 1970 to 25 in 2006, according to a new report from the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS).
In the United States, the average age of women giving birth for the first time rose from 21.4 years in 1970 to 25 in 2006, according to a new report from the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS).
Swine Flu May Not Be Any Deadlier This Fall
Experts
August 11, 2009
Review of prior epidemics refutes theory that virus gets more severe. The theory that a relatively mild outbreak of a new flu virus in the spring predicts a more severe, deadly outbreak in the fall isn't borne out by a look back at prior epidemics, two U.S. experts say.
Delivery-Related Infant Deaths Decline in Scotland
August 11, 2009
Fewer newborns experiencing a fatal lack of oxygen, study finds. Since the late 1980s, there's been a nearly 40 percent drop in the risk for delivery-related death at birth or shortly thereafter for full-term infants in Scotland, new research has found.
The major factor in the decrease is a reduction in the number of deaths caused by a lack of oxygen for the baby, called intrapartum anoxia, during the birth process, according to researchers from the University of Cambridge in England.
They analyzed data from more than 1 million births in Scotland between 1988 and 2007 and found that, in absolute terms, the risk for delivery-related perinatal death (right after birth) was 7.
The major factor in the decrease is a reduction in the number of deaths caused by a lack of oxygen for the baby, called intrapartum anoxia, during the birth process, according to researchers from the University of Cambridge in England.
They analyzed data from more than 1 million births in Scotland between 1988 and 2007 and found that, in absolute terms, the risk for delivery-related perinatal death (right after birth) was 7.
Many Parents, Caregivers Lack Basic Child-Safety Information
August 11, 2009
Parents, day-care workers recognized fewer than half of the household hazards in study. Parents of young children identified fewer than half of the potential safety hazards for kids in a home, but did far better than either health-care professionals or day-care workers, a new study finds.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham study also found that the mothers and fathers recognized fewer hazards when asked to note possible issues for their children as opposed to other toddlers in general, suggesting they thought their children knew better or were less vulnerable than others.
The study had the three groups of adults place stickers on what they considered safety issues in a mock living room, child's bedroom and bathroom.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham study also found that the mothers and fathers recognized fewer hazards when asked to note possible issues for their children as opposed to other toddlers in general, suggesting they thought their children knew better or were less vulnerable than others.
The study had the three groups of adults place stickers on what they considered safety issues in a mock living room, child's bedroom and bathroom.
Seizures, Not Epilepsy Itself, May Raise Birth Risks
August 10, 2009
It's the attacks during pregnancy that cause problems, study contends. Epileptic seizures during pregnancy increase the likelihood of premature and small babies, says a new study.
Taiwanese researchers compared children born to 1,016 women with epilepsy with those born to 8,128 women without epilepsy. During pregnancy, 503 of the women with epilepsy had seizures and 513 did not.
Taiwanese researchers compared children born to 1,016 women with epilepsy with those born to 8,128 women without epilepsy. During pregnancy, 503 of the women with epilepsy had seizures and 513 did not.
Breast-Feeding May Lower Breast Cancer Risk
August 10, 2009
Study found women with familial history of disease were protected. Women who breast-feed their babies even for short periods of time may lower their risk of developing premenopausal breast cancer if they have a family history of the disease.
"We saw a 59 percent lower risk of breast cancer among women with a family history who had ever breast-fed," stated Dr. Alison Stuebe, lead author of a study appearing in the Aug.
"We saw a 59 percent lower risk of breast cancer among women with a family history who had ever breast-fed," stated Dr. Alison Stuebe, lead author of a study appearing in the Aug.
Young Moms Follow Their Mother's Parenting Style
August 10, 2009
Fathers don't seem swayed by the maternal influence, survey finds. The expression "like mother, like daughter" appears to hold true when it comes to raising children.
Women are more likely than men to follow the parenting practices of their mothers, a generational study has found.
Ohio State University researchers analyzed survey results from 1,133 young parents who were asked how often they spanked their children in the past week, how often they showed their children physical affection and praised them in the past week, and how often they read to their child in the past month.
Women are more likely than men to follow the parenting practices of their mothers, a generational study has found.
Ohio State University researchers analyzed survey results from 1,133 young parents who were asked how often they spanked their children in the past week, how often they showed their children physical affection and praised them in the past week, and how often they read to their child in the past month.
Kids With High IQs Live Longer
August 10, 2009
Nurturing family environment may be the key to longevity, an expert says. Children with high IQs live longer, but it is not clear exactly what role IQ plays in longevity, new British research shows.
Previous studies have shown an association between IQ and mortality, but an explanation for that has proved elusive. This is an important question because identifying those mechanisms would help in understanding the origins of health inequalities, the researchers said.
Previous studies have shown an association between IQ and mortality, but an explanation for that has proved elusive. This is an important question because identifying those mechanisms would help in understanding the origins of health inequalities, the researchers said.
Dogs and 2-Year-Olds on Same Mental Plane
August 10, 2009
Research shows canines can count, learn words. According to accumulating research, the beloved family dog is really a toddler with a snout and tail.
"Dogs basically have the developmental abilities equivalent to a human 2-year-old," said dog expert Stanley Coren, who was scheduled to present recent canine research developments at the American Psychological Association annual meeting this week in Toronto.
The average dog can learn 165 words, although "super dog" Rico, a border collie, could understand 200 spoken words.
"Dogs basically have the developmental abilities equivalent to a human 2-year-old," said dog expert Stanley Coren, who was scheduled to present recent canine research developments at the American Psychological Association annual meeting this week in Toronto.
The average dog can learn 165 words, although "super dog" Rico, a border collie, could understand 200 spoken words.
Good Planning Paves Way for Kid's Operation
August 08, 2009
Before your child undergoes surgery, follow these helpful tips. To ease the anxiety of a child undergoing surgery, it helps if parents and children are well-prepared, advises the American Society of Anesthesiologists.
"Undergoing surgery can be a source of stress for a person of any age, but when the patient is a child, a whole new layer of sensitivity is added," ASA President Dr. Roger A.
"Undergoing surgery can be a source of stress for a person of any age, but when the patient is a child, a whole new layer of sensitivity is added," ASA President Dr. Roger A.
If Baby Is Breech, Technology Might Help
August 08, 2009
Ultrasound helps detect infants turned in the womb, allowing time for decisions. Babies poised to enter the world feet first can pose serious complications for themselves and their moms.
Among single-baby pregnancies, just 3 percent to 5 percent are known as "breech presentations," with the baby's bottom, rather than head, positioned closest to the birth canal.
But though the numbers are small, experts say the risks can be big.
Among single-baby pregnancies, just 3 percent to 5 percent are known as "breech presentations," with the baby's bottom, rather than head, positioned closest to the birth canal.
But though the numbers are small, experts say the risks can be big.
Health Tip
Eating Right While You're Pregnant
August 07, 2009
Diet is even more important when you're expecting.
Bacteria May Be Connected to Colic
August 06, 2009
Called Klebsiella, it could be causing gut inflammation, study suggests. A bacterium normally found in the mouth, skin and intestines might play a role in the still-mysterious cause of colic in babies, a new study says.
Researchers found the bacterium Klebsiella along with gut inflammation in the intestines of all babies in their study who had colic, a condition characterized by uncontrollable crying.
"We believe that the bacterium may be sparking an inflammatory reaction, causing the gut inflammation," Dr.
Researchers found the bacterium Klebsiella along with gut inflammation in the intestines of all babies in their study who had colic, a condition characterized by uncontrollable crying.
"We believe that the bacterium may be sparking an inflammatory reaction, causing the gut inflammation," Dr.
Many Texas Docs Not Pushing HPV Vaccine for Girls
August 06, 2009
Study finds fewer than half always recommend the shots, despite federal guidelines. More than half of Texas doctors don't always recommend human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination for girls, despite U.S. guidelines urging their inoculation, a new survey finds.
Autism May Hinder Ability to Read Body Language
August 05, 2009
Trouble seems to lie in visual processing, researchers say. Autism may hinder a person's ability to see and read body language, making it difficult to gauge other people's feelings, a British study finds.
Dr. Anthony Atkinson, of the Durham University psychology department, found that adults with autism spectrum disorder had trouble identifying emotions, such as anger or happiness, while watching short video clips of body movements.
Dr. Anthony Atkinson, of the Durham University psychology department, found that adults with autism spectrum disorder had trouble identifying emotions, such as anger or happiness, while watching short video clips of body movements.
No Link Found Between Birth Anesthesia and Learning Issues
August 04, 2009
Whether delivery was vaginal or C-section doesn't matter, study finds. Exposure to anesthesia during a Cesarean delivery doesn't increase the risk of learning disabilities in children, says a new study.
"We found that the incidence of learning disabilities was equal between children who were delivered vaginally and those who were delivered via C-section but with general anesthesia," study leader Dr. Juraj Sprung, an anesthesiologist at the Mayo Clinic, said in a news release from Mayo.
"We found that the incidence of learning disabilities was equal between children who were delivered vaginally and those who were delivered via C-section but with general anesthesia," study leader Dr. Juraj Sprung, an anesthesiologist at the Mayo Clinic, said in a news release from Mayo.
Induced Labor May Improve Outcome in Risky Pregnancies
August 04, 2009
Delivery at 37 weeks helps women with hypertensive disorders, study finds. Labor should be induced after 37 weeks in pregnant women with mild hypertension disorders such as high blood pressure and mild preeclampsia, according to a new study in The Lancet.
The study included 756 pregnant women in the Netherlands. All had been pregnant 36 to 41 weeks and had gestational hypertension or mild preeclampsia.
The study included 756 pregnant women in the Netherlands. All had been pregnant 36 to 41 weeks and had gestational hypertension or mild preeclampsia.
Low Birth Weight Might Raise Adult Kidney Disease Risk
August 03, 2009
Babies under 5.5 pounds at increased odds for chronic illness, review finds. Low birth weight babies have a much greater risk of developing kidney disease later in life, according to researchers who reviewed 32 observational studies.
The meta-analysis found that people who were less than 5.5 pounds at birth were 70 percent more likely to develop chronic kidney disease than those with normal birth weight.
The meta-analysis found that people who were less than 5.5 pounds at birth were 70 percent more likely to develop chronic kidney disease than those with normal birth weight.
Young Kids' Screen Time May Raise Blood Pressure
August 03, 2009
Watching TV raises risk more than other low-level activities, such as painting, study finds. Young children who spend too much time in front of the television, the computer and video games might be at increased risk for high blood pressure, a new study suggests.
American and Spanish researchers examined the association between sedentary behavior and blood pressure in 111 boys and girls, 3 to 8 years old. For seven days, the children wore a special device that recorded their activity levels.
American and Spanish researchers examined the association between sedentary behavior and blood pressure in 111 boys and girls, 3 to 8 years old. For seven days, the children wore a special device that recorded their activity levels.
Infants Cared for in Another Home Become Heavier Toddlers
July 30, 2009
Being in own home, day-care centers didn't increase weight, study found. When infants attend day care in someone else's home, they're more likely to be heavier than average by the time they're toddlers, new research suggests.
Harvard researchers report in the August issue of Pediatrics that babies aged 6 months and younger who were cared for in someone else's home, rather than in their own home or at a day-care center, were more likely to weigh more in relation to their height at the ages of 1 and 3.
"An infant who was in child care in someone else's home in the first six months of life was 5 or so percentage points higher [on growth charts] at 1 or 3 years old than an infant who started at the same point but was cared for at home by another provider or at a center," said study author Sara Benjamin, a postdoctoral research fellow in the department of population medicine at Harvard Medical School in Boston.
Harvard researchers report in the August issue of Pediatrics that babies aged 6 months and younger who were cared for in someone else's home, rather than in their own home or at a day-care center, were more likely to weigh more in relation to their height at the ages of 1 and 3.
"An infant who was in child care in someone else's home in the first six months of life was 5 or so percentage points higher [on growth charts] at 1 or 3 years old than an infant who started at the same point but was cared for at home by another provider or at a center," said study author Sara Benjamin, a postdoctoral research fellow in the department of population medicine at Harvard Medical School in Boston.
Health Tip
Your Pregnancy in the Third Trimester
July 30, 2009
Here's what should happen It's your third trimester .
Pregnant Women, Health-Care Workers Top Swine Flu Vaccine Candidates
July 30, 2009
CDC advisory panel outlines priorities for a fall flu shot rollout. Women who are pregnant, children 6 months and older and health-care workers should all get top priority when the H1N1 swine flu vaccine arrives this fall, a U.S. government advisory panel recommended late Wednesday.
Prioritize Pregnant Women to Get Swine Flu Shot, Experts Say
July 29, 2009
As CDC recommendations loom, new study confirms this group at great risk. As U.S. officials meet Wednesday to decide who should get priority for potentially scarce H1N1 swine flu shots this fall, the danger the virus poses to pregnant women should vault that group to the top of the list, experts say.
Health Tip
Your Pregnancy in the Second Trimester
July 29, 2009
Here's what you can expect By the time you're in your second trimester of pregnancy, your body already has undergone significant change. But you're certainly not through.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says here's what pregnant women can expect in the second trimester:
Nausea should subside and your appetite should return.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says here's what pregnant women can expect in the second trimester:
Nausea should subside and your appetite should return.
CDC Panel to Recommend Who Should Get Swine Flu Shot
July 28, 2009
Officials hope vaccine will be available by fall or early winter. With the first trials of a vaccine against the new H1N1 swine flu set to begin shortly, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will convene a panel of experts Wednesday to recommend a priority list of candidates for the vaccine.
Health Tip
Your Pregnancy in the First Trimester
July 28, 2009
Changes you can expect Many moms-to-be scour books and Web sites to find out what happens to their body and growing baby at each step of pregnancy.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers this list of changes that you can expect during your first trimester:
Menstruation stops.
Your breasts may become larger and more tender.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers this list of changes that you can expect during your first trimester:
Menstruation stops.
Your breasts may become larger and more tender.
More Dairy, Calcium in Childhood Could Mean Longer Life
July 28, 2009
Study beginning in 1930s suggests link, but experts unsure. A 65-year-long study finds that people who took in lots of calcium and dairy products as children tended to avoid stroke and live longer than those who didn't.
"This study shows a modest protective effect of dietary calcium intake in childhood against stroke risk later in life, and a modest protective effect against mortality from any cause from higher intake of milk in childhood," said Dr. David L.
"This study shows a modest protective effect of dietary calcium intake in childhood against stroke risk later in life, and a modest protective effect against mortality from any cause from higher intake of milk in childhood," said Dr. David L.
With Autism, Diet Restrictions May Do More Harm Than Good
July 27, 2009
Study finds no increase in gastrointestinal problems in kids with the disorder. Children with autism do not have a higher incidence of gastrointestinal problems than other children, a new study has found.
However, autistic children do have a higher rate of constipation and eating issues, such as eating the same foods over and over, according to the study. But any number of factors, including medication, could cause these issues, the researchers said.
However, autistic children do have a higher rate of constipation and eating issues, such as eating the same foods over and over, according to the study. But any number of factors, including medication, could cause these issues, the researchers said.
Swine Flu Could Eventually Affect 40% of Americans
CDC
July 24, 2009
Vaccine testing -- set to begin next week -- could lessen impact. The H1N1 swine flu could end up affecting as many as 40 percent of Americans, if one includes workers who stay home to care for people who contract the illness, U.S. health officials said Friday.
Babies Can Comprehend 'Canine' Language
July 24, 2009
They matched type of bark with right canine expression, researcher says. What's in a bark? A new study suggests that 6-month-old babies know the answer.
Researchers found that most infants who were tested could figure out that an aggressive bark goes with an angry-looking dog. They also seemed to know that friendly-looking pooches voice their feelings in a different way.
Researchers found that most infants who were tested could figure out that an aggressive bark goes with an angry-looking dog. They also seemed to know that friendly-looking pooches voice their feelings in a different way.
Health Tip
How New Dads Can Prepare for Birth
July 24, 2009
New fathers have responsibilities, too Sure, expecting women have to carry most of the responsibility when it comes to pregnancy and childbirth. But that doesn't mean there's nothing for dads-to-be to do.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers this list of possible activities for new fathers:
Discuss with the mother whether you want to be the one to cut the umbilical cord after birth.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers this list of possible activities for new fathers:
Discuss with the mother whether you want to be the one to cut the umbilical cord after birth.
Snoozing May Help Women Shed Baby Weight
July 24, 2009
But avoiding postpartum sleep deprivation can be tough, experts admit. New moms who can't zip up their pre-pregnancy jeans might not be catching enough zzzs.
Getting a good night's sleep, in fact, may be just as important as diet and exercise for shedding baby weight.
One study of new mothers found that those who slept five or fewer hours a day six months after giving birth were three times as likely to hold onto those extra pounds as were women who got seven or more hours of sleep.
Getting a good night's sleep, in fact, may be just as important as diet and exercise for shedding baby weight.
One study of new mothers found that those who slept five or fewer hours a day six months after giving birth were three times as likely to hold onto those extra pounds as were women who got seven or more hours of sleep.
U.S. Expects 160 Million Doses of Swine Flu Vaccine by October
July 23, 2009
A slowdown in production is hampering efforts, but a nasal spray version might help. U.S. officials hope to have 160 million doses of injectable swine flu vaccine on hand by October, with more doses coming in the form of a nasal spray.
Many Young Adults Uninformed About Vaccines
July 22, 2009
More awareness of benefits of shots for preventable diseases needed, study shows. Vaccines are not only for children, but many young adults in the United States are unaware of the need to keep up with their shots, a new survey shows.
For example, while 84 percent of Americans over 50 know that tetanus causes lockjaw and that they need to get a new tetanus shot every 10 years, only 49 percent of adults aged 18 to 26 know this, according to a survey commissioned by the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID).
"Over 50,000 adults die in the United States each year as the result of diseases that are potentially vaccine-preventable," Dr.
For example, while 84 percent of Americans over 50 know that tetanus causes lockjaw and that they need to get a new tetanus shot every 10 years, only 49 percent of adults aged 18 to 26 know this, according to a survey commissioned by the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID).
"Over 50,000 adults die in the United States each year as the result of diseases that are potentially vaccine-preventable," Dr.
Infanticide of 19th Century
Was It SIDS?
July 22, 2009
Study finds patterns of baby deaths mirror sudden infant death syndrome. Many infant deaths in the 19th century that were labeled as infanticide or neglect may actually have been sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), a U.S. study suggests.
HIV Drugs Provide Breast-Fed Babies With Some Protection
July 22, 2009
Treating infected mothers or giving meds to infant both beneficial in African study. Antiretroviral drugs appear safe and effective in helping prevent the transmission of HIV from mother to child through breast milk, a new international study has found.
The researchers found that giving daily antiretroviral syrup to breast-feeding infants or putting their HIV-infected mothers on highly active antiretroviral drugs significantly lowered the child's chances of contracting the virus that causes AIDS. The chance of a mother with HIV transmitting the virus through breast-feeding is about one in five.
The researchers found that giving daily antiretroviral syrup to breast-feeding infants or putting their HIV-infected mothers on highly active antiretroviral drugs significantly lowered the child's chances of contracting the virus that causes AIDS. The chance of a mother with HIV transmitting the virus through breast-feeding is about one in five.
Test May Predict Moms Who Will Deliver Prematurely
July 21, 2009
Analysis of amniotic and cervical fluids yields clues to early birth. Testing for a panel of proteins in amniotic and cervical fluids might enable doctors to identify women who are in danger of giving birth prematurely.
No such test exists now. If perfected, such a tool could supplement a test now available that can determine which women face a lower risk of delivering early.
No such test exists now. If perfected, such a tool could supplement a test now available that can determine which women face a lower risk of delivering early.
Safety of Swine Flu Vaccine to Face Tough Scrutiny
July 21, 2009
Experts confident that U.S. won't repeat problems seen in 1976 episode. A high-level U.S. government decision in 1976 to vaccinate 43 million people against swine flu backfired .
FDA Approves Seasonal Flu Vaccine for 2009-2010
July 20, 2009
Health experts still working on H1N1 swine flu vaccine, which should be ready by fall. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the vaccine to protect against the 2009-2010 seasonal flu, health officials announced Monday.
Exposure to Common Pollutant in Womb Might Lower IQ
July 20, 2009
Study found those kids performed worse on intelligence tests at age 5. Fetal exposure to high levels of a common airborne pollutant compound seems to threaten the intellectual development of children, a new study suggests.
The finding is based on the experience of black and Dominican-American families living in the New York City area. Specifically, it indicates that high prenatal exposure to these compounds .
The finding is based on the experience of black and Dominican-American families living in the New York City area. Specifically, it indicates that high prenatal exposure to these compounds .
Depression Poses Pregnancy Risks
July 19, 2009
Condition, which affects mom and baby alike, may be more common than many think. Thanks to high-profile celebrities like Brooke Shields, postpartum depression is out of the closet and discussed as something to recognize and treat.
But less well known is depression during pregnancy .
But less well known is depression during pregnancy .
Guard Against Swine Flu at Summer Camp
July 18, 2009
Before sending off your kids, take some precautions, expert says. As children head off to summer camp, many parents are concerned about the risk for swine flu.
To protect kids from the H1N1 virus when they're at camp, Dr. Jeffrey Boscamp, a pediatric infectious diseases expert at Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey, recommends the following:
Confirm that the camp is doing regular screenings, promoting proper hygiene and updating parents on any reported cases of swine flu.
To protect kids from the H1N1 virus when they're at camp, Dr. Jeffrey Boscamp, a pediatric infectious diseases expert at Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey, recommends the following:
Confirm that the camp is doing regular screenings, promoting proper hygiene and updating parents on any reported cases of swine flu.
Recession Takes Toll on Children's Health
July 17, 2009
National poll finds kids in poorest families feel effects most. The recession is taking a toll on many U.S. children, especially the poor and uninsured, according to a survey of 1,471 parents and their children.
Fetal Alcohol Disorders Often Misdiagnosed as ADHD
July 17, 2009
Behavioral difficulties can look the same, researchers note. Children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) are often initially diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, since the two problems can manifest in similar ways, a new study shows.
However, children with FASD have more difficulty interpreting social information than children with ADHD, and this results in more severe behavioral problems, the researchers found.
The study also found that children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) have a high risk of psychiatric problems.
However, children with FASD have more difficulty interpreting social information than children with ADHD, and this results in more severe behavioral problems, the researchers found.
The study also found that children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) have a high risk of psychiatric problems.
Parents of Children With Autism Report High Stress Levels
July 17, 2009
Behavior problems, not additional caretaking, seem to cause the distress. Anyone who has tried to quell a 3-year-old's temper tantrum knows that dealing with small children can be stressful, but add an autism spectrum disorder to the mix and the likelihood of parental stress significantly increases.
But a new study in the July issue of the journal Autism suggests that it's not the additional daily caretaking tasks that add stress, but the behavioral issues common in children with autism.
"Mothers of children with autism reported more parent-related stress and psychological distress," said study author Annette Estes, a research assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the University of Washington in Seattle.
But a new study in the July issue of the journal Autism suggests that it's not the additional daily caretaking tasks that add stress, but the behavioral issues common in children with autism.
"Mothers of children with autism reported more parent-related stress and psychological distress," said study author Annette Estes, a research assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the University of Washington in Seattle.
Earlier Testing Needed for Fragile X Syndrome
July 17, 2009
Delay in diagnosis could be prevented with better screening, study finds. Treatment of a rare genetic disorder that inhibits a child's learning could improve if pediatricians diagnosed the syndrome earlier, researchers say.
The disorder, known as fragile X syndrome, is the most common inherited form of intellectual disability and is not apparent at birth. It affects roughly one in 2,000 males and one in 4,000 females.
The disorder, known as fragile X syndrome, is the most common inherited form of intellectual disability and is not apparent at birth. It affects roughly one in 2,000 males and one in 4,000 females.
Easy Baby or Fussy -- It May Be Out of Mom's Control
July 17, 2009
Gene, brain activity may determine child's temperament, study finds. Whether you have an easy baby or a fussy one may have nothing to do with your parenting skills because the combination of a certain gene and a particular pattern of brain activity may determine a child's temperament, a new study has found.
Canadian researchers examined the interaction between the DRD4 gene and activity in the frontal cortex of the brain to find out if it predicted children's temperament.
Previous studies have suggested that the longer version (allele) of the DRD4 gene is associated with increased sensory responsiveness, risk-seeking behavior and attention problems in children.
Canadian researchers examined the interaction between the DRD4 gene and activity in the frontal cortex of the brain to find out if it predicted children's temperament.
Previous studies have suggested that the longer version (allele) of the DRD4 gene is associated with increased sensory responsiveness, risk-seeking behavior and attention problems in children.
Health Tip
Help Prevent Birth Defects
July 17, 2009
Steps you can take before and during pregnancy While the cause of many birth defects remains a mystery, doctors do understand what causes many others .
Pregnancy, STDs on the Rise Again Among U.S. Teens
July 16, 2009
Trend threatens to reverse years of positive change, CDC researchers say. Birth rates among U.S. teens increased in 2006 and 2007, following large declines from 1991 to 2005, according to a new U.
Teen Behaviors Stem From Genetics, Environment
July 16, 2009
When it comes to drinking and acting out, genes alone aren't destiny, study finds. Teens' alcohol use and behavior problems are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, a new study finds.
"In the past, research on genetic and environmental influences on behavior was often conducted in isolation," researcher Danielle Dick, an assistant professor of psychiatry, psychology, and human and molecular genetics at Virginia Commonwealth University, said in a news release.
"Some scientists were interested in genetic effects, others in environmental effects.
"In the past, research on genetic and environmental influences on behavior was often conducted in isolation," researcher Danielle Dick, an assistant professor of psychiatry, psychology, and human and molecular genetics at Virginia Commonwealth University, said in a news release.
"Some scientists were interested in genetic effects, others in environmental effects.
New Insights Could Help Shield Babies From Diarrhea Bug
July 16, 2009
Birth rate patterns, vaccination can greatly influence rotavirus' spread, CDC says. The incidence of rotavirus infection, a major cause of infant illness in the United States, could be drastically reduced by a better understanding of when and where infections are likely to spread and by the wide use of new vaccines, new research suggests.
A team including scientists from the U.S.
A team including scientists from the U.S.
Cars Are No Place for Kids to Be Alone
July 16, 2009
Heat stroke just one of many dangers for children in unattended vehicles, experts warn. At any time of year, but especially in warm weather, don't even think about leaving a child unattended in a vehicle.
New research from the U.S.
New research from the U.S.
Many Kids Outgrow Chronic Headaches
July 15, 2009
Those with migraines more likely to struggle in adulthood, study finds. For most children who suffer from chronic daily headaches in their early teens, a new study has good news .
Younger Teens Really Do Care What People Think
July 15, 2009
The opinion of others is key to their self-image, study finds. Although they might not want to admit it, what other people think about them is extremely important to young adolescents, a new study confirms.
Previous research into teens' sensitivity to others' perceptions of them relied on information provided by teens themselves, but the authors of this study monitored brain activity as participants answered questions.
Using brain-mapping technology, the researchers studied neural activity in 12 adolescents (aged 11 to 13) and 12 young adults (aged 22 to 30) who were asked whether short phrases (such as "I am popular") applied to them.
Previous research into teens' sensitivity to others' perceptions of them relied on information provided by teens themselves, but the authors of this study monitored brain activity as participants answered questions.
Using brain-mapping technology, the researchers studied neural activity in 12 adolescents (aged 11 to 13) and 12 young adults (aged 22 to 30) who were asked whether short phrases (such as "I am popular") applied to them.
Ability to Consider Other People's Thoughts Grows After Age 6
July 15, 2009
Brain scan study sheds light on social development. By the time children are 6 years old, the parts of their brain involved in social cognition may be in place, a finding that may have implications for children with autism, according to U.S. researchers.
New Treatments for Alzheimer's on the Horizon
July 15, 2009
Studies show Dimebon could improve cognition, vaccine might fight 'tangles' of disease. New interventions show promise against two different types of brain abnormalities, both of which are implicated in the development and progression of Alzheimer's disease.
A drug called Dimebon seems to improve cognitive function in both mice and humans but, new research reveals, it actually increases brain levels of beta amyloid, a protein long thought to be a leading culprit in the development of Alzheimer's disease.
Meanwhile, a vaccine has had some effect in reducing the number of tau protein tangles that are also associated with Alzheimer's.
A drug called Dimebon seems to improve cognitive function in both mice and humans but, new research reveals, it actually increases brain levels of beta amyloid, a protein long thought to be a leading culprit in the development of Alzheimer's disease.
Meanwhile, a vaccine has had some effect in reducing the number of tau protein tangles that are also associated with Alzheimer's.
U.S. Students' Academic Interests Tend to Wane in Middle School
July 15, 2009
Chinese teens more likely to keep education a priority, research finds. American adolescents are more likely than their Chinese counterparts to lose interest in academics, a finding that may explain why Chinese children outperform Americans in academic pursuits such as math, researchers say.
In a study that included American and Chinese students in grades 7 and 8, more than 800 children completed questionnaires four times over a two-year period. The students reported how much they valued achievement, whether they liked to do difficult work in a particular subject (mastery), how much time they spent on schoolwork outside of school and how they used learning strategies.
In a study that included American and Chinese students in grades 7 and 8, more than 800 children completed questionnaires four times over a two-year period. The students reported how much they valued achievement, whether they liked to do difficult work in a particular subject (mastery), how much time they spent on schoolwork outside of school and how they used learning strategies.
Memory Forms at 30 Weeks in the Womb
July 15, 2009
Study finds fetuses showed short-term memory of 10 minutes at this stage in development. Fetuses that are only 30 weeks old may already possess short-term memory, Dutch researchers report.
"This is the next step into a better insight in the development of the fetal central nervous system," said study co-author Dr. Jan G.
"This is the next step into a better insight in the development of the fetal central nervous system," said study co-author Dr. Jan G.
Bottle-Feeding Moms Ignored
July 14, 2009
Many feel pressured to breast-feed and ill-informed about alternative, researchers find. The lack of information and support for mothers who bottle-feed could put the health of their infants at risk, say British researchers who reviewed 23 studies that included more than 13,000 participants.
Most infants will receive some formula milk during their first year of life, even if their mothers have decided to breast-feed, said Dr. Rajalakshmi Lakshman and colleagues, from the University of Cambridge.
Most infants will receive some formula milk during their first year of life, even if their mothers have decided to breast-feed, said Dr. Rajalakshmi Lakshman and colleagues, from the University of Cambridge.
Swine Flu Vaccine Taking Longer Than Expected
July 13, 2009
A fully tested shot may not be ready until year's end, WHO says. A fully tested swine flu vaccine may not be available until the end of the year, a vaccine expert at the World Health Organization said Monday.
But countries could use emergency measures to get the vaccines out faster if they decide they are needed, Marie-Paule Kieny, director of WHO's Initiative for Vaccine Research, said during a news conference in London, the Associated Press reported.
The problem: The swine flu viruses being used to develop a vaccine are only producing about half as much "yield" to make vaccines as regular flu viruses.
But countries could use emergency measures to get the vaccines out faster if they decide they are needed, Marie-Paule Kieny, director of WHO's Initiative for Vaccine Research, said during a news conference in London, the Associated Press reported.
The problem: The swine flu viruses being used to develop a vaccine are only producing about half as much "yield" to make vaccines as regular flu viruses.
FDA OKs Single-Dose Plan B Emergency Contraceptive
July 13, 2009
Drug will also be made available to 17-year-olds without prescription, company says. A single-pill version of the Plan B emergency contraceptive has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Health Tip
Keep Baby's Nails Trimmed
July 13, 2009
And help prevent scratches The thought of clipping your young baby's fingernails and toenails may be intimidating, but it's important to keep the nails trim to prevent scratches while sleeping or playing.
The Nemours Foundation offers these suggestions for trimming baby's nails:
Have your partner hold the baby while you cut the infant's nails.
Find a place and position in which your baby appears content, such as in a lap or rocking chair.
The Nemours Foundation offers these suggestions for trimming baby's nails:
Have your partner hold the baby while you cut the infant's nails.
Find a place and position in which your baby appears content, such as in a lap or rocking chair.
Strep B Seems to Trick Immune System
July 13, 2009
Finding could lead to better treatment of sepsis, meningitis in newborns A bacterial pathogen that causes sepsis and meningitis in newborns shuts down immune cell function to ensure its survival, a new study shows.
The findings about Group B Streptococcus (GBS) may help lead to new drugs for infectious diseases that affect about 3,500 newborns in the United States each year, said the researchers at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine.
They found that GBS dupes the immune system into reducing production of antibiotic molecules.
The findings about Group B Streptococcus (GBS) may help lead to new drugs for infectious diseases that affect about 3,500 newborns in the United States each year, said the researchers at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine.
They found that GBS dupes the immune system into reducing production of antibiotic molecules.
Stillbirth Not an Issue for Next-Born
July 10, 2009
No increased psychological risk for subsequent child: study. Children born after their mother has a stillbirth aren't at increased risk for psychological problems, according to a British study.
Stillbirth can cause serious mental stress for parents, and some research had suggested that a child born after a stillbirth may be psychologically vulnerable, according to background information in a news release about the study.
The study included 52 first-time mothers whose previous pregnancy had ended in stillbirth and 51 first-time mothers who hadn't experienced stillbirth.
Stillbirth can cause serious mental stress for parents, and some research had suggested that a child born after a stillbirth may be psychologically vulnerable, according to background information in a news release about the study.
The study included 52 first-time mothers whose previous pregnancy had ended in stillbirth and 51 first-time mothers who hadn't experienced stillbirth.
Overall Health of U.S. Children a Mixed Bag
July 10, 2009
Government study finds gains and losses More of America's children get recommended vaccinations and have health insurance than in years past, but a new U.S. government report paints a mixed picture of the overall health of the nation's youngsters.
Respiratory Issues Linger for Smallest Babies
July 09, 2009
Problems related to low birth weight continue into adulthood, study shows. Respiratory problems experienced by low birth weight infants can persist into adulthood, U.S. researchers report.
Swine Flu Summit Focuses on Preparedness
July 09, 2009
U.S. taking steps to handle virus' anticipated return in the fall. The initial scare posed by the sudden emergence of swine flu in April may have passed, but federal officials are warning against complacency and bracing for the virus' expected return in the fall.
On Thursday, Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano, Education Secretary Arne Duncan and others led an H1N1 swine flu "preparedness summit" at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Md. The summit comes amid reports that the H1N1 virus continues to infect people in the United States and at least 100 other countries.
On Thursday, Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano, Education Secretary Arne Duncan and others led an H1N1 swine flu "preparedness summit" at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Md. The summit comes amid reports that the H1N1 virus continues to infect people in the United States and at least 100 other countries.
Vaccine May Someday Thwart Ear Infections
July 09, 2009
Tested on animals, liquid would be administered externally. U.S. researchers have developed a pain-free vaccination that might thwart ear infections in children.
Screen All Newborns for Hip Dysplasia, Study Urges
July 08, 2009
Experts say early treatment helps avoid arthritis in adolescence. All infants should be screened for hip dysplasia to reduce their risk of developing early arthritis, says a new study.
Developmental hip dysplasia .
Developmental hip dysplasia .
Fewer Shots Could Still Protect Kids From Pneumonia
July 07, 2009
Reduced-dose schedule for PCV-7 vaccine supported by study findings. Parents and babies alike will be relieved by new findings that show a reduced-dose schedule for the pneumococcal vaccine can protect infants against pneumonia and other infections.
The current recommended dose schedule for 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV-7) consists of three primary doses before the age of 6 months, followed by a booster vaccination in the second year of life (3 + 1-dose schedule). But factors such as questions about the cost-effectiveness of the current PCV-7 dose schedule have led researchers to examine reduced-dose vaccine schedules, according to background information in the study.
The current recommended dose schedule for 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV-7) consists of three primary doses before the age of 6 months, followed by a booster vaccination in the second year of life (3 + 1-dose schedule). But factors such as questions about the cost-effectiveness of the current PCV-7 dose schedule have led researchers to examine reduced-dose vaccine schedules, according to background information in the study.
Supplement Might Help Compulsive Hair Pullers
July 07, 2009
Amino acid may quell the urge, researchers say. A common health-food supplement might help ease the urges of people with a compulsive hair-pulling disorder called trichotillomania, U.S. researchers report.
New Weapon Emerges to Fight Kids' Cavities
July 07, 2009
Xylitol syrup may protect baby teeth from decay, much like fluoride, study finds. A syrup containing the sugar substitute xylitol helps prevent tooth decay in baby teeth, according to a new study.
Xylitol, approved in the United States for use in food since 1963, acts as an antibacterial agent against organisms that cause cavities. Previous studies showing its effectiveness have mainly involved chewing gum or lozenges in school-age children with permanent teeth.
Xylitol, approved in the United States for use in food since 1963, acts as an antibacterial agent against organisms that cause cavities. Previous studies showing its effectiveness have mainly involved chewing gum or lozenges in school-age children with permanent teeth.
New Evidence Supports HPV Vaccine
July 07, 2009
Industry-funded study showed high levels of protection against human papillomavirus. The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is highly effective at preventing precancerous cervical lesions that can lead to cervical cancer, a new study shows.
The researchers also found that the HPV-16/18 AS04-adjuvanted vaccine also appears to protect against other cancer-causing HPV types closely related to HPV-16/18, most notably HPV-31 and HPV-45.
The study of women aged 15 to 25, who received three vaccine doses over six months, found that it was as much as 98 percent effective against HPV-16/18, and between 37 percent and 54 percent effective against 12 other cancer-causing HPV types.
The researchers also found that the HPV-16/18 AS04-adjuvanted vaccine also appears to protect against other cancer-causing HPV types closely related to HPV-16/18, most notably HPV-31 and HPV-45.
The study of women aged 15 to 25, who received three vaccine doses over six months, found that it was as much as 98 percent effective against HPV-16/18, and between 37 percent and 54 percent effective against 12 other cancer-causing HPV types.
Autism May Be Linked to Mom's Autoimmune Disease
July 06, 2009
Possible causes of disorder should now include celiac disease, study suggests. Children of mothers who have autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and celiac disease have up to a three times greater risk for autism, a new study finds.
Although the association between autism and a maternal history of type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis had been found in earlier research, the researchers behind the new study say that theirs is the first to find a link between autism and celiac disease. People with celiac disease cannot tolerate gluten, a protein in wheat, rye and barley.
Although the association between autism and a maternal history of type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis had been found in earlier research, the researchers behind the new study say that theirs is the first to find a link between autism and celiac disease. People with celiac disease cannot tolerate gluten, a protein in wheat, rye and barley.
For OCD, Not Helping Might Be Best
July 06, 2009
Well-meaning assistance may do more harm than good, experts say. Instinctively easing a child's anxiety could be counterproductive if girl or boy suffers from obsessive-compulsive disorder, say University of Florida researchers.
Helping children with OCD complete the rituals associated with the condition .
Helping children with OCD complete the rituals associated with the condition .
C-Section Stress Could Alter Baby's Immune Cells
July 02, 2009
And that might raise odds for diabetes, asthma later on, researchers say. Babies delivered by cesarean section experience changes to the DNA of white blood cells, which might explain why they're at increased risk for immunological diseases such as diabetes and asthma later in life, Swedish researchers say.
"Delivery by C-section has been associated with increased allergy, diabetes and leukemia risks," Dr. Mikael Norman, a pediatric specialist at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, said in a news release from Wiley-Blackwell publishers.
"Delivery by C-section has been associated with increased allergy, diabetes and leukemia risks," Dr. Mikael Norman, a pediatric specialist at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, said in a news release from Wiley-Blackwell publishers.
Sad Dads May Lead to Crying Infants
June 30, 2009
More factors should be considered than depression among moms, experts say. Don't automatically blame mom: A crying, colicky baby can be just as much the result of dad's state of mind, Dutch researchers report.
Other studies have found that depression among mothers can be related to excessive crying or colic, a common problem with newborns, but the researchers said that little was known about whether fathers' emotions and behavior also have an effect.
"Up to now, almost all attention went to the prenatal effects of maternal depression on child development, leading to the development of detection and treatment programs that focused on mental well-being of mothers," said lead researcher Dr.
Other studies have found that depression among mothers can be related to excessive crying or colic, a common problem with newborns, but the researchers said that little was known about whether fathers' emotions and behavior also have an effect.
"Up to now, almost all attention went to the prenatal effects of maternal depression on child development, leading to the development of detection and treatment programs that focused on mental well-being of mothers," said lead researcher Dr.
Talk With Kids, Not At Them
June 29, 2009
Give-and-take conversations speed language development, study finds. If you want to help children develop language and speech skills, UCLA researchers say, listening to what they have to say is just as important as talking to them.
The effect of a conversation between a child and an adult is about six times as great as the effect of adult speech input alone, the researchers found. The results of their study appear in the July issue of Pediatrics.
The effect of a conversation between a child and an adult is about six times as great as the effect of adult speech input alone, the researchers found. The results of their study appear in the July issue of Pediatrics.
Cyber Bullying Affects One in 10 Students
June 29, 2009
But researchers find supportive parents help keep abusive behaviors at bay. Bullying still makes life miserable for plenty of students, only these days some aggressors apparently operate electronically.
A new study shows that many children in grades 6 through 10 have either bullied classmates or been bullied by them, sometimes online or through cell phones.
The study by the National Institutes of Health, released online June 29 in the Journal of Adolescent Medicine, analyzed data from the World Health Organization's 2005/2006 survey of human behavior in school-aged children.
A new study shows that many children in grades 6 through 10 have either bullied classmates or been bullied by them, sometimes online or through cell phones.
The study by the National Institutes of Health, released online June 29 in the Journal of Adolescent Medicine, analyzed data from the World Health Organization's 2005/2006 survey of human behavior in school-aged children.
Chromosome Abnormality Tied to Autistic Behavior in Mice
June 26, 2009
Finding could help advance autism research in humans. Mice with an extra chromosome region inherited from their fathers display many behaviors seen in people with autism, a finding that suggests that the same chromosome abnormality in humans is one cause of autism, according to Japanese scientists.
The mice will be an important tool in efforts to develop treatments for autism, the researchers from Hiroshima University say. Their report appears in the June 26 issue of the journal Cell.
The mice will be an important tool in efforts to develop treatments for autism, the researchers from Hiroshima University say. Their report appears in the June 26 issue of the journal Cell.
Many Adults With Asthma Are Skipping Flu Shots
June 26, 2009
Condition raises risk of complications, CDC researchers note. Adults with asthma face a higher risk of complications if they catch the flu, yet many skip their annual shots, new research from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows.
Supply of Key Children's Vaccine Almost Back to Normal
June 25, 2009
CDC says production shortfalls that limited booster shots nearly over; Hib can cause bacterial meningitis. A children's vaccine that's been in short supply for 18 months is now being produced at levels that allow its traditional widespread use, officials at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced Thursday.
Abused Kids Face Higher Cancer Risk
June 25, 2009
'Fight or flight' hormone may play a role, researcher suggests. Adults who experienced physical abuse as children are more likely to develop cancer than those who weren't abused, according to a Canadian study.
The University of Toronto researchers concluded that childhood physical abuse is associated with a 49 percent increased risk of cancer in adulthood. Even after taking into account potentially major health factors .
The University of Toronto researchers concluded that childhood physical abuse is associated with a 49 percent increased risk of cancer in adulthood. Even after taking into account potentially major health factors .
Chemical Used in Plastics May Affect Newborn Size
June 25, 2009
Low birth weight infants have higher levels of phthalates, study finds. As if expectant mothers don't have enough to worry about, new research suggests that a woman's exposure to phthalates, a chemical compound found in many plastics, may be linked to low birth weight in infants.
The report, to be published in the upcoming issue of The Journal of Pediatrics, found notable levels of the compound .
The report, to be published in the upcoming issue of The Journal of Pediatrics, found notable levels of the compound .
Women More Likely Than Men to Reject Unattractive Babies
June 24, 2009
Study casts doubt on notion of moms' unconditional love. Women are more likely than men to look away from less-than-cute babies, according to a study that challenges the idea of a mother's unconditional love.
The findings might reflect an evolutionary-based need to provide limited resources only to healthy offspring, suggest the researchers, from Harvard-affiliated McLean Hospital in Belmont, Mass.
"Our study shows how beauty can affect parental attitudes," study senior author Dr.
The findings might reflect an evolutionary-based need to provide limited resources only to healthy offspring, suggest the researchers, from Harvard-affiliated McLean Hospital in Belmont, Mass.
"Our study shows how beauty can affect parental attitudes," study senior author Dr.
Whites More Likely to Get Rare Bone Cancer
June 23, 2009
Reasons for racial disparity remain unclear, researcher says. Scientists have documented that the rare bone and soft tissue cancer Ewing's sarcoma disproportionately strikes white people.
What's more, among whites who have the disease, males are more likely to die from it than females, according to a study published online June 22 in Cancer.
Led by Dr.
What's more, among whites who have the disease, males are more likely to die from it than females, according to a study published online June 22 in Cancer.
Led by Dr.
Treatment Option Shortens Path to Pregnancy
June 19, 2009
Skipping one phase when treating infertility also cuts costs, study finds. Among couples going to fertility clinics, pregnancy occurred more quickly .
Standard IQ Test May Undervalue People With Autism
June 19, 2009
Study shows they could solve problems faster than non-autistics on a different test. The most commonly used test to measure intelligence is underestimating the intellectual potential of autistic people, new research suggests.
People with autism often struggle with the verbal portions of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, the test most often used to measure IQ, researchers said.
But when given another test of abstract reasoning abilities, the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices, autistic people not only had scores equal to those of their non-autistic counterparts, but they answered the questions, on average, as much as 42 percent more quickly.
People with autism often struggle with the verbal portions of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, the test most often used to measure IQ, researchers said.
But when given another test of abstract reasoning abilities, the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices, autistic people not only had scores equal to those of their non-autistic counterparts, but they answered the questions, on average, as much as 42 percent more quickly.
Program Helps 1st Graders Stay Safe Long-Term
June 19, 2009
It cut odds for substance abuse, violence by the time they reached 5th grade. A school-based prevention program begun in the early grades can reduce rates of substance abuse, violence and early sexual activity, says a U.S. study.
Toilet Training Goes High Tech
June 19, 2009
Wetting alarm speeds up the potty process, researchers say. For countless generations, parents have been trying to get toddlers to pee in the toilet. Now, Belgian researchers think they have come up with a 21st century solution .
Health Tip
What's an APGAR Test?
June 19, 2009
It evaluates a baby's health just after birth As soon as your baby is delivered at a hospital or other medical facility, it's commonly whisked away to be evaluated by the waiting team of professionals.
The medical team probably is giving your baby what's known as an APGAR test to check how well baby handled birth, and how the infant is adjusting to life outside the womb. It's given at one minute after birth, and a second time five minutes after birth.
The medical team probably is giving your baby what's known as an APGAR test to check how well baby handled birth, and how the infant is adjusting to life outside the womb. It's given at one minute after birth, and a second time five minutes after birth.
Work Stress for Mom Might Harm Baby
June 18, 2009
Researchers link job strain, long hours to low birth weight. Job stress during early pregnancy increases the risk of low infant birth weight, a new study finds.
Dutch researchers analyzed responses from 8,266 pregnant women who filled out a questionnaire on employment and working conditions.
The study found that a work week of 32 hours or more and high job strain during the first trimester had an impact on an infant's birth weight.
Dutch researchers analyzed responses from 8,266 pregnant women who filled out a questionnaire on employment and working conditions.
The study found that a work week of 32 hours or more and high job strain during the first trimester had an impact on an infant's birth weight.
Surging Internet Use Cutting Into Family Time
June 18, 2009
Rise of Facebook, Twitter coincides with 30% drop in hours spent together, report finds. American kids and their parents are now spending more hours huddled alone around computer screens and cell phone displays, seriously eroding the amount of time families spend together.
That's according to a new report that found the time per week that families interact as group has fallen by nearly a third between 2005 and 2008.
"Family face-to-face time has decreased in a substantial way.
That's according to a new report that found the time per week that families interact as group has fallen by nearly a third between 2005 and 2008.
"Family face-to-face time has decreased in a substantial way.
Teens, Young Adults Need More Calcium
June 18, 2009
Consumption of bone-building dairy products declines in late teens, research shows. Young people tend to cut down on bone-strengthening dairy products as they enter their 20s .
Health Tip
High Blood Pressure While You're Pregnant
June 18, 2009
Suggestions for a safer pregnancy High blood pressure during pregnancy may develop into a dangerous condition called preeclampsia .
Group B Strep Screening Guidelines Sparing Newborns
June 17, 2009
More expectant moms being checked, treated so babies aren't infected, study finds. Recommendations implemented in 2002 to screen all pregnant women for group B streptococcal disease have largely been successful, a new report shows.
Eighty-five percent of women in the United States are now being screened and, if positive, given appropriate treatment.
"This paper highlights an important public health success story," said study author Melissa K.
Eighty-five percent of women in the United States are now being screened and, if positive, given appropriate treatment.
"This paper highlights an important public health success story," said study author Melissa K.
Close Monitoring May Help Troubled Teen Girls Avoid Pregnancy
June 17, 2009
Specialized foster care program for delinquent kids showed surprise benefit. Placing teenage girls with a history of juvenile delinquency in specialized foster-care programs had an unexpected consequence: It kept them from getting pregnant, researchers found.
Researchers directed 166 girls aged 13 to 17 who were ordered by the courts to receive treatment for criminal behavior to either specialized foster care or a group-care facility.
The specialized programs, called Multidimensional Treatment Foster Care (MTFC), were developed in the 1980s to provide severely delinquent youths one-on-one care and supervision from foster parents trained in behavior management.
Researchers directed 166 girls aged 13 to 17 who were ordered by the courts to receive treatment for criminal behavior to either specialized foster care or a group-care facility.
The specialized programs, called Multidimensional Treatment Foster Care (MTFC), were developed in the 1980s to provide severely delinquent youths one-on-one care and supervision from foster parents trained in behavior management.
Breast-Feeding Boosts Child's School Performance
June 17, 2009
It led to better chances of higher GPA, college attendance, study shows. Children who were breast-fed do better in high school and are more likely to go to college than their bottle-fed siblings, researchers report.
While the health benefits of breast-feeding to both infants and mothers is well known, this study suggests the practice may have educational benefits as well. This is the first study using data on siblings to examine the effect of breast-feeding on high school completion and college attendance, the researchers noted.
While the health benefits of breast-feeding to both infants and mothers is well known, this study suggests the practice may have educational benefits as well. This is the first study using data on siblings to examine the effect of breast-feeding on high school completion and college attendance, the researchers noted.
Depression May Lead to More Preemies Among Blacks
June 16, 2009
Expert thinks pre-pregnancy mood could partly explain disparity in birth rate. Black women are twice as likely to give birth prematurely as white women, and a greater likelihood of depression may play a role in that, a new study suggests.
Researchers looked at birth-rate data collected over six years from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults Study, which included health information from about 5,000 young adults living in four metropolitan areas.
Of the 555 women who gave birth between 1990 and 1996 in the larger study, 18.
Researchers looked at birth-rate data collected over six years from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults Study, which included health information from about 5,000 young adults living in four metropolitan areas.
Of the 555 women who gave birth between 1990 and 1996 in the larger study, 18.
ADHD Drugs Linked to Sudden Death in Kids
June 15, 2009
But these unexplained events are exceedingly rare, study finds. Stimulant medications commonly prescribed to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are associated with an increased risk of sudden death, but those deaths are still rare, new research finds.
Children and teens taking ADHD stimulant medications were seven times more likely to die suddenly than their peers, the study found.
"What we found .
Children and teens taking ADHD stimulant medications were seven times more likely to die suddenly than their peers, the study found.
"What we found .
Health Tip
Caring for Your Newborn
June 15, 2009
Suggestions for new parents Most first-time parents are at a loss when they bring baby home from the hospital.
The Nemours Foundation offers these suggestions for parental novices:
Support baby's head with a gentle hand whenever you hold, carry or lay baby down.
Treat baby gently.
The Nemours Foundation offers these suggestions for parental novices:
Support baby's head with a gentle hand whenever you hold, carry or lay baby down.
Treat baby gently.
Keep Safety in Mind While Cooling Off in the Water
June 14, 2009
Youngsters need extra vigilance near pools, beaches and hot tubs, experts warn. Summertime brings pool parties, lazy days at the beach and boating trips to the lake.
All that time in and around water also brings a heightened risk of drowning, according to the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP).
Each year, nearly 3,000 people drown in the United States.
All that time in and around water also brings a heightened risk of drowning, according to the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP).
Each year, nearly 3,000 people drown in the United States.
Kids With Eye Condition at Risk for Poor Mental Health
June 12, 2009
Cause of association remains unclear, however, researchers say. Children who have a condition in which the eye sometimes points outward are more likely to develop a mental illness by young adulthood, new research has found.
About 1 percent of developmentally healthy U.S.
About 1 percent of developmentally healthy U.S.
Postpartum Anxiety May Delay Puberty in Kids
June 11, 2009
In animal study, hormonal changes in pregnancy have long-term impact on offspring's development. Postpartum anxiety may delay puberty in biological and adopted daughters, research on mice has found.
The study found that mice with low levels of the hormone prolactin in early pregnancy had substantial anxiety after giving birth and that their female offspring had delayed onset of puberty.
Prolactin, which is associated with lactation, is believed to protect against anxiety, according to a news release about the study from the Endocrine Society.
The study found that mice with low levels of the hormone prolactin in early pregnancy had substantial anxiety after giving birth and that their female offspring had delayed onset of puberty.
Prolactin, which is associated with lactation, is believed to protect against anxiety, according to a news release about the study from the Endocrine Society.
Frequent Snoring in Pregnancy Could Signal Blood Sugar Trouble
June 11, 2009
Gestational diabetes risk higher in moms-to-be who snore, study finds. Pregnant women who snore regularly are more likely to develop gestational diabetes, new research has found.
In the study, 189 healthy women completed a sleep survey when they were between six and 20 weeks pregnant, and again in their third trimester.
The researchers found that pregnant women who were frequent snorers .
In the study, 189 healthy women completed a sleep survey when they were between six and 20 weeks pregnant, and again in their third trimester.
The researchers found that pregnant women who were frequent snorers .
Morning Sickness Drug Gets Green Light in Study
June 10, 2009
Israeli researchers find short-term use during pregnancy should be safe. A new study suggests that women who experience morning sickness early in pregnancy can safely take the medication metoclopramide to relieve their symptoms.
The study, which included nearly 3,500 pregnant women who took metoclopramide (Reglan), a drug developed to treat gastrointestinal (GI) problems, found no significant increases in the risk of birth defects, premature delivery, low birth weight or fetal death.
"It appears that metoclopramide is safe for short-term use to control GI problems in pregnant women when used as prescribed," said the study's senior author, Amalia Levy, a senior lecturer in epidemiology at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev in Israel.
The study, which included nearly 3,500 pregnant women who took metoclopramide (Reglan), a drug developed to treat gastrointestinal (GI) problems, found no significant increases in the risk of birth defects, premature delivery, low birth weight or fetal death.
"It appears that metoclopramide is safe for short-term use to control GI problems in pregnant women when used as prescribed," said the study's senior author, Amalia Levy, a senior lecturer in epidemiology at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev in Israel.
If Mom or Dad Is Depressed, Kids Need Help Too
June 10, 2009
Coordinated assessment and care for all family members is warranted: report. When parents are depressed, their children can suffer too.
A new report from the National Research Council and the Institute of Medicine calls for health and social service professionals to pay greater attention to the impact of parental depression on their children.
Rather than treating only the depressed adult, health-care and mental-health professionals should evaluate the fallout of the depression on the entire family, particularly children, and design treatment programs with everyone in mind, according to the report that was to be released Wednesday.
A new report from the National Research Council and the Institute of Medicine calls for health and social service professionals to pay greater attention to the impact of parental depression on their children.
Rather than treating only the depressed adult, health-care and mental-health professionals should evaluate the fallout of the depression on the entire family, particularly children, and design treatment programs with everyone in mind, according to the report that was to be released Wednesday.
Health Tip
New Moms, Protect Your Back
June 09, 2009
Be careful when bending or lifting New moms have enough on their minds without worrying about throwing out their back.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers this advice:
Try to exercise and strengthen your back muscles as soon as your doctor says it's safe.
Make an effort to lose the baby weight .
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers this advice:
Try to exercise and strengthen your back muscles as soon as your doctor says it's safe.
Make an effort to lose the baby weight .
Breast-feeding OK for Most Moms with MS
June 08, 2009
But each woman's circumstances are different, expert cautions. New moms with multiple sclerosis who want to breast-feed but worry it might cause their disease to relapse may be reassured by a new study that discovered this is not the case for most women.
The study, in the June 8 issue of Archives of Neurology, found that almost two of three women with multiple sclerosis (MS) who breast-fed exclusively for two months or more and who were not taking MS medications did not experience a relapse of their disease while they were breast-feeding.
"The most important thing for patients and physicians to know is that there's no evidence that breast-feeding is harmful for women with MS," said study author Dr.
The study, in the June 8 issue of Archives of Neurology, found that almost two of three women with multiple sclerosis (MS) who breast-fed exclusively for two months or more and who were not taking MS medications did not experience a relapse of their disease while they were breast-feeding.
"The most important thing for patients and physicians to know is that there's no evidence that breast-feeding is harmful for women with MS," said study author Dr.
Daytime Nap Has Benefits Beyond Rest for Kids
June 08, 2009
Nappers have less hyperactivity, depression and anxiety, research suggests. Children's nap time is not only beneficial to caregivers who may need a break. For children aged 4 to 5 years, taking a nap during the day may help reduce hyperactivity, anxiety and depression, new study findings show.
In the study of 62 children categorized as either napping (77 percent) or non-napping (23 percent), researchers found that those who didn't take daytime naps had higher levels of anxiety, hyperactivity and depression.
In the study of 62 children categorized as either napping (77 percent) or non-napping (23 percent), researchers found that those who didn't take daytime naps had higher levels of anxiety, hyperactivity and depression.
U.S. Response to Swine Flu Called Good
June 05, 2009
But report said the health-care system would be overburdened if an outbreak were more severe. Although the U.S. response to the ongoing H1N1 swine flu outbreak that surfaced unexpectedly in April has been largely effective, there are shortcomings that must be addressed.
Wear Sunscreen for Lifelong Benefits
June 05, 2009
Sun damage never goes away so protect kids from the start, expert says. Most people, especially children, love to be out in the summer sun, but parents should remember that no tan is a good tan.
"Remember that if you form a tan, you will have ultraviolet radiation damage," Dr. Alfred Lane, a pediatrician and researcher at Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, said in a news release from the northern California facility.
"Remember that if you form a tan, you will have ultraviolet radiation damage," Dr. Alfred Lane, a pediatrician and researcher at Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, said in a news release from the northern California facility.
Health Tip
Pregnancy and Foot Health
June 05, 2009
The feet have a lot more weight to support Pregnancy can trigger aches and pains all over your body, from your head to your toes.
The American Podiatric Medical Association offers these suggestions to help ease the burden on your feet while you're pregnant:
Prop up your feet whenever you can. But avoid sitting with your legs or ankles crossed, which could impair circulation.
The American Podiatric Medical Association offers these suggestions to help ease the burden on your feet while you're pregnant:
Prop up your feet whenever you can. But avoid sitting with your legs or ankles crossed, which could impair circulation.
Tourette Syndrome Diagnosed in 3 in Every 1,000 Kids
June 04, 2009
Many more cases have probably not been identified, U.S. health officials say. In the first estimate of its kind, U.S. health officials report that three of every 1,000 children, mostly boys, are diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome.
Report Gives U.S. Good Grades for Swine Flu Response
June 04, 2009
But it also said the health-care system would be overburdened if an outbreak were more severe. Although the U.S. response to the ongoing H1N1 swine flu outbreak that surfaced unexpectedly in April has been largely effective, there are shortcomings that must be addressed.
Girls and Math
Blame the Culture, Not Ability
June 04, 2009
Raise the bar and watch females succeed, researcher says. Culture, not biology, might explain why females in some parts of the world don't perform as well as males in math.
That's the conclusion of an analysis of math performance in the United States and abroad that appears in the June 1 issue of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
"There are countries where the gender disparity in math performance doesn't exist at either the average or gifted level.
That's the conclusion of an analysis of math performance in the United States and abroad that appears in the June 1 issue of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
"There are countries where the gender disparity in math performance doesn't exist at either the average or gifted level.
Fewer New Pounds in Pregnancy Best for Obese Moms
June 02, 2009
Findings support recent changes to gestational weight gain guidelines. In a study that reinforces recent changes in pregnancy weight gain recommendations, obese women who gained little or no weight while pregnant had better outcomes than obese women who gained more.
Just last week, experts at the U.S.
Just last week, experts at the U.S.
Health Issues in Childhood Often Show Up in Adulthood
June 02, 2009
Physical, mental stress at young age can have lifelong effects, research shows. Physical and mental health problems in childhood can have lifelong consequences, which means it's important to start health promotion and disease prevention early in life, experts say.
"A scientific consensus is emerging that the origins of adult disease are often found among developmental and biological disruptions occurring during the early years of life," according to Dr. Jack P.
"A scientific consensus is emerging that the origins of adult disease are often found among developmental and biological disruptions occurring during the early years of life," according to Dr. Jack P.
TV Interferes With Infants' Language Development
June 02, 2009
More time watching the tube means less time learning to speak, researchers say. Television reduces verbal interaction between parents and infants, which could delay children's language development, says a U.S. study that challenges claims that certain infant-targeted DVDs actually benefit youngsters.
More 'Extreme' Preemies Surviving
June 02, 2009
Almost 70% of babies born at 22-26 weeks make it to 1st birthday, study finds. Advances in the care of extremely premature infants mean that about 70 percent of these tiny newborns now survive their first year of life, Swedish researchers report.
The number of preterm births is increasing worldwide, and advances in perinatal medicine have increased survival. That means that neonatal intensive care can now be lifesaving even for the most premature infants .
The number of preterm births is increasing worldwide, and advances in perinatal medicine have increased survival. That means that neonatal intensive care can now be lifesaving even for the most premature infants .
Too Much Media May Be Tough on Kids' Health
June 02, 2009
Expert warns parents to limit access to computers, TV and more. Easy access to a wide variety of media increases a child's risk for numerous health issues, such as obesity, eating disorders, drug use and early sexual activity, according to a U.S. expert.
Cervical Cancer Vaccine Not Just for Teens
June 02, 2009
Uninfected women aged 24 to 45 still may benefit from HPV vaccine, study finds. The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine works for women aged 24 to 45 who aren't already infected by HPV, the virus that has been linked to cervical cancer and other cervical diseases.
That's the finding from Dr. Nubia Munoz, of the National Institute of Cancer in Bogota, Columbia, who noted that women's rising age at first marriage and increasing divorce rates have led to more widespread premarital intercourse and pairing with new sexual partners around middle age.
That's the finding from Dr. Nubia Munoz, of the National Institute of Cancer in Bogota, Columbia, who noted that women's rising age at first marriage and increasing divorce rates have led to more widespread premarital intercourse and pairing with new sexual partners around middle age.
Frequent Household Moves Raise Kids' Suicide Risk
June 01, 2009
More mobile families may be more stressed, researchers say. Children from families who pick up and move often may be at higher odds for suicide, a Danish study finds.
In fact, researchers found that the more often a family moved, the more likely it was that a child would attempt or complete suicide.
Despite an increasingly mobile society, "little research has addressed the influence of mobility on children's psychosocial well-being," noted Dr.
In fact, researchers found that the more often a family moved, the more likely it was that a child would attempt or complete suicide.
Despite an increasingly mobile society, "little research has addressed the influence of mobility on children's psychosocial well-being," noted Dr.
Celexa May Not Help Kids With Autism
June 01, 2009
Study finds no benefit, and more side effects, but not all agree. In contrast to the assumptions of some doctors, new research suggests that the antidepressant Celexa does not help relieve repetitive behaviors often seen in children and teens with autism.
But the findings still need to be confirmed by other studies, and at least one autism specialist said the drug has worked well in his patients of preschool age, who are younger than those in the study.
"The jury is still out on how autism should be treated," said the specialist, Dr.
But the findings still need to be confirmed by other studies, and at least one autism specialist said the drug has worked well in his patients of preschool age, who are younger than those in the study.
"The jury is still out on how autism should be treated," said the specialist, Dr.
1 in 3 U.S. Kids Lack Nearby Trauma Care
June 01, 2009
Over 17 million are an hour or more away from quality treatment, report finds. One-third of children in the United States live more than an hour away by ground or air transport from a pediatric trauma center, an amount of time that could prove deadly in the event of a serious injury, researchers say.
In the United States, more children aged 1-14 die of injuries than of all other causes. Trauma centers improve the chances of survival for severely injured children, according to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia team who calculated access to trauma centers among children younger than 15.
In the United States, more children aged 1-14 die of injuries than of all other causes. Trauma centers improve the chances of survival for severely injured children, according to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia team who calculated access to trauma centers among children younger than 15.
Experts Optimistic About Melanoma Vaccine
June 01, 2009
Phase 3 study reports improved survival for those with advanced disease.A vaccine for advanced melanoma has shown promise in a new study.
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. The five year-survival rates for local and metastatic melanoma are 65 percent and 16 percent, respectively.
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. The five year-survival rates for local and metastatic melanoma are 65 percent and 16 percent, respectively.
Enzyme Deficiency Linked to Neural Tube Defect in Mice
May 29, 2009
Study findings may hold key to preventing spina bifida. An enzyme deficiency in some mothers may be responsible for their giving birth to children with neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, new research has found.
In the study, researchers at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis found neural tube problems in 12 percent to 15 percent of the embryos in female mice with low levels of the enzyme ITPK1.
In the study, researchers at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis found neural tube problems in 12 percent to 15 percent of the embryos in female mice with low levels of the enzyme ITPK1.
Experts Urge Less Weight Gain for Obese Women in Pregnancy
May 28, 2009
New guidelines suggest adding no more than 20 pounds. Obese moms-to-be should limit their weight gain during pregnancy to between 11 and 20 pounds to safeguard their health and that of their baby, according to newly updated expert guidelines.
That level of gestational weight gain is about half whats recommended for normal-weight pregnant women and reflects the concern over the rising number of obese expectant mothers in the United States.
The new guidelines .
That level of gestational weight gain is about half whats recommended for normal-weight pregnant women and reflects the concern over the rising number of obese expectant mothers in the United States.
The new guidelines .
More Assisted Reproduction, But Fewer Multiple Births
May 28, 2009
Technology use growing worldwide, but not as many embryos being transferred, research shows. Each year, 219,000 to 246,000 babies conceived through assisted reproductive technology (ART) are born worldwide, says an international study that also found that the number of ART procedures increased by more than 25 percent between 2000 and 2002.
Researchers analyzed 2002 data from 1,563 clinics in 53 countries but noted data were missing from a number of countries, mostly in Asia, Africa, Oceania and the West Indies.
"There are several important points to highlight," said Professor Jacques de Mouzon, a public health specialist at INSERM in Paris who led the International Committee for Monitoring Assisted Reproductive Technology that wrote the study.
Researchers analyzed 2002 data from 1,563 clinics in 53 countries but noted data were missing from a number of countries, mostly in Asia, Africa, Oceania and the West Indies.
"There are several important points to highlight," said Professor Jacques de Mouzon, a public health specialist at INSERM in Paris who led the International Committee for Monitoring Assisted Reproductive Technology that wrote the study.
Technology, Caffeine Keeping Teens Awake
May 28, 2009
Many routinely get just 3 to 5 hours sleep per night, study shows. Just one in five teens is getting the recommended eight hours of sleep each night. The rest may be texting the night away with the help of highly-caffeinated energy drinks, according to new research.
And, it's not that teens don't need the sleep.
And, it's not that teens don't need the sleep.
Music May Temper Pain in Preemies
May 28, 2009
Analysis finds benefits, but some question results beyond soothing of infants. Playing music seems to reduce pain and encourage feeding in premature infants, University of Alberta researchers report.
Music is being widely used in neonatal units across North America, but how beneficial it is to the infants remains unclear.
Lead researcher Dr.
Music is being widely used in neonatal units across North America, but how beneficial it is to the infants remains unclear.
Lead researcher Dr.
Stigma Keeps Teens From Depression Treatment
May 27, 2009
Barriers to care include worries about family's reaction, study finds. Concern about their family's reaction to their depression is a major reason why many teens don't seek treatment, new research suggests.
In the study, which included 368 teens and one parent or guardian of each teen, half of the teens had been diagnosed with depression. The teens and the adults were asked to rate possible barriers to depression treatment, including cost of care, concerns over perceptions of others, difficulties making appointments with a doctor or therapist, constraints due to time and other responsibilities, not wanting family members to know about the depression (asked of teens only), the unavailability of good care and simply not desiring treatment.
In the study, which included 368 teens and one parent or guardian of each teen, half of the teens had been diagnosed with depression. The teens and the adults were asked to rate possible barriers to depression treatment, including cost of care, concerns over perceptions of others, difficulties making appointments with a doctor or therapist, constraints due to time and other responsibilities, not wanting family members to know about the depression (asked of teens only), the unavailability of good care and simply not desiring treatment.
Broad-Spectrum Cervical Cancer Vaccine Shows Promise
May 26, 2009
Tests in animals get good results against more types of HPV, study finds. An investigational broad-spectrum cervical cancer vaccine induced strong immune responses in mice and rabbits, and protected them against human papillomavirus (HPV) type 16 for four months, new research has found.
Current HPV L1-based vaccines provide almost 100 percent protection against the two types of HPV that cause 70 percent of all cervical cancer cases worldwide, but they are expensive and offer only limited protection against other HPV types that cause cancer, according to the researchers. The new vaccine may help cover that gap in protection, they noted.
Current HPV L1-based vaccines provide almost 100 percent protection against the two types of HPV that cause 70 percent of all cervical cancer cases worldwide, but they are expensive and offer only limited protection against other HPV types that cause cancer, according to the researchers. The new vaccine may help cover that gap in protection, they noted.
Hardened Arteries Threaten Obese, Diabetic Youth
May 26, 2009
Ultrasound shows damage tied to rising odds for stroke, heart attack, researchers say. An examination of the neck arteries of today's obese or diabetic young people bodes ill for their future health, researchers report.
The walls of these carotid arteries, which carry blood to the brain, showed a thickening and stiffness known to increase the risk of future strokes, heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems, according to a report to be published in the June 9 issue of Circulation.
"Since the 1980s, there has been a major increase in obesity in our youth," said Dr.
The walls of these carotid arteries, which carry blood to the brain, showed a thickening and stiffness known to increase the risk of future strokes, heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems, according to a report to be published in the June 9 issue of Circulation.
"Since the 1980s, there has been a major increase in obesity in our youth," said Dr.
Attention Problems in Kindergarten Could Spell Long-Term Academic Trouble
May 26, 2009
They have bigger impact than issues such as depression, anxiety, study finds. Children with attention problems in kindergarten often struggle academically right through high school, a new study suggests.
The study, led by Joshua Breslau of the University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, is among the first to show how attention problems early in a child's life can shape and predict future academic performance, he said.
"The evidence suggests what many educators may already suspect, that kids with attention problems don't learn as much," said Breslau, an anthropologist and epidemiologist.
The study, led by Joshua Breslau of the University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, is among the first to show how attention problems early in a child's life can shape and predict future academic performance, he said.
"The evidence suggests what many educators may already suspect, that kids with attention problems don't learn as much," said Breslau, an anthropologist and epidemiologist.
Refusing Shots Puts Kids at Higher Risk for Whooping Cough
May 26, 2009
Parents who reject immunization put children, community in jeopardy, study finds. Compared to children who are immunized against whooping cough, those who aren't vaccinated are 23 times more likely to get the infection .
Mom and Baby Alike May Benefit From Exercise
May 24, 2009
Most women should keep active while pregnant, experts say. It's natural that a woman might be skeptical about exercising while she's pregnant. So many changes are occurring in her body, it makes sense to have second thoughts about whether exercise might harm her or her unborn child.
But it turns out that a thoughtful exercise program is good for both mother and child, according to medical experts.
But it turns out that a thoughtful exercise program is good for both mother and child, according to medical experts.
Babies Come Packed With Natural Knowledge
May 22, 2009
Study furthers idea that infants don't depend on others to learn. Infants as young as 5 months old can distinguish between similar-looking liquids and solids, an indication that babies are always learning and pretty smart to begin with, new research suggests.
Two Northwestern University experiments found that babies would stare longer at objects that did new or unexpected things and then would make decisions on what it was they'd observed .
Two Northwestern University experiments found that babies would stare longer at objects that did new or unexpected things and then would make decisions on what it was they'd observed .
Health Tip
Be More Comfortable During Childbirth
May 22, 2009
Suggestions to make labor and delivery more tolerable Few women would say childbirth is easy. The amount and type of pain depends on the woman herself, her baby's size and its position, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says.
The college offers these general suggestions for how to stay more comfortable during childbirth:
Well before the birth, take childbirth classes that will teach you breathing techniques and relaxation methods to use in the delivery room.
The college offers these general suggestions for how to stay more comfortable during childbirth:
Well before the birth, take childbirth classes that will teach you breathing techniques and relaxation methods to use in the delivery room.
Teen Stress May Have Roots in First Three Years of Life
May 21, 2009
Overuse of day care, insensitive moms linked to higher stress levels in adolescence. Very young children who spent excessive time in child-care facilities or who had insensitive mothers may be more prone to stress in their teen years, a long-term study suggests.
The conclusion is based on a finding, published in the May/June issue of Child Development, that by age 15 these children are more likely to wake up in the morning with lower-than-normal levels of cortisol, a hormone related to stress. Normally, people have high cortisol levels in the morning that gradually decrease as the day continues.
The conclusion is based on a finding, published in the May/June issue of Child Development, that by age 15 these children are more likely to wake up in the morning with lower-than-normal levels of cortisol, a hormone related to stress. Normally, people have high cortisol levels in the morning that gradually decrease as the day continues.
Methamphetamine Use Triples Among Pregnant Rehab Patients
May 21, 2009
A quarter of those seeking treatment are addicted to the drug, study shows. More pregnant women in drug treatment programs are there due to methamphetamine use than any other drug, new research shows.
The number of expectant mothers seeking treatment for methamphetamine abuse tripled from 1994 to 2006. In 1994, methamphetamine use accounted for 8 percent of all admissions for pregnant women, but by 2006 that number was 24 percent, the researchers report.
The number of expectant mothers seeking treatment for methamphetamine abuse tripled from 1994 to 2006. In 1994, methamphetamine use accounted for 8 percent of all admissions for pregnant women, but by 2006 that number was 24 percent, the researchers report.
Pediatric Ear Infection Vaccine Shows Promise
May 21, 2009
Animal study shows droplets rubbed into skin prevented infections. Vaccines delivered via droplets rubbed into the skin appear to protect against ear infections, say researchers who tested the method on chinchillas.
If this approach proves effective in humans, it could provide a simple, inexpensive way of preventing ear infections, the researchers noted.
Three groups of chinchillas had droplets of the vaccines rubbed into the skin of their ears once a week for three weeks.
If this approach proves effective in humans, it could provide a simple, inexpensive way of preventing ear infections, the researchers noted.
Three groups of chinchillas had droplets of the vaccines rubbed into the skin of their ears once a week for three weeks.
Risk to Baby Rises With Repeat C-Sections
May 21, 2009
Procedure doubles odds for intensive care compared to vaginal birth newborns, researchers say. Babies delivered by elective, repeat cesarean section delivery are nearly twice as likely to be admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) than those born vaginally after the mother has previously had a c-section, a new study finds.
These c-section babies are also more likely to have breathing problems requiring supplemental oxygen, the researchers say.
"In addition, the cost of the birth for both mother and infant was more expensive in the elective repeat c-section group compared to the vaginal birth after c-section (VBAC) group," noted Dr.
These c-section babies are also more likely to have breathing problems requiring supplemental oxygen, the researchers say.
"In addition, the cost of the birth for both mother and infant was more expensive in the elective repeat c-section group compared to the vaginal birth after c-section (VBAC) group," noted Dr.
Fertility Treatment Twins More at Risk for Hospitalizations
May 21, 2009
Couples using assisted reproductive technology should be made aware, researcher says. Compared to naturally conceived twins, those conceived through assisted reproductive technology (ART) are more likely to be hospitalized and admitted to neonatal intensive care, finds a new study.
Researchers analyzed outcomes and hospital admissions for all twins born in Western Australia between 1994 and 2000.
"We found that twins conceived following ART treatment had a greater risk of adverse perinatal outcome, including preterm birth, low birth weight and death, compared with spontaneously conceived twins of unlike sex [ULS SC].
Researchers analyzed outcomes and hospital admissions for all twins born in Western Australia between 1994 and 2000.
"We found that twins conceived following ART treatment had a greater risk of adverse perinatal outcome, including preterm birth, low birth weight and death, compared with spontaneously conceived twins of unlike sex [ULS SC].
Gene Gives Clues to Why Autism More Common in Boys
May 20, 2009
Family study sheds more light on mysterious condition. A new gene variant that may increase the risk of autism, particularly in boys, has been identified by U.S. researchers.
Hospitalization Rates Higher in Kids Who Get Flu Shots
May 19, 2009
Link likely due to other health problems in children most recommended for vaccination, experts say. Children who get the annual flu vaccine, especially those who have asthma, may be more likely to be hospitalized than children who don't get the shot, a new study shows.
But the researcher noted that the surprise finding probably has more to do with the severity of the underlying illness in children receiving the vaccine than with any deficiency in the vaccine.
"This may not be a reflection of the vaccine but that these patients are the sickest, and their doctors insist they get a vaccination," said study author Dr.
But the researcher noted that the surprise finding probably has more to do with the severity of the underlying illness in children receiving the vaccine than with any deficiency in the vaccine.
"This may not be a reflection of the vaccine but that these patients are the sickest, and their doctors insist they get a vaccination," said study author Dr.
Kids More Apt to Smoke If Mom Did While Pregnant
May 19, 2009
Research suggests biological changes take place in the womb. Smoking while pregnant "biologically primes" the unborn child to become a regular smoker as a teen and young adult, according to a theory put forth by University of Arizona researchers.
"Somehow smoke is changing the brain chemistry," said the lead researcher, Dr. Roni Grad, an associate professor of clinical pediatrics at the university.
"Somehow smoke is changing the brain chemistry," said the lead researcher, Dr. Roni Grad, an associate professor of clinical pediatrics at the university.
Overweight Moms More Likely to Have Asthmatic Kids
May 19, 2009
Inflammation may drive the connection, researchers say. A mother's weight may have lasting effects not just on her own health but on the respiratory health of her children as well.
"Children with asthmatic parents are at an increased risk of asthma if the mother is overweight before pregnancy," said H.A.
"Children with asthmatic parents are at an increased risk of asthma if the mother is overweight before pregnancy," said H.A.
New Methods Could Speed Production of Flu Vaccines
May 18, 2009
Clinical trials using new strategies show promise for better protection against flu. Vaccines made up of virus-like particles (VLPs) could provide stronger and longer-lasting protection against flu viruses than conventional vaccines, researchers say.
Even better, VLP vaccines, which can be grown in cell cultures or plants, can be developed and produced twice as quickly as conventional vaccines, according to research presented May 18 at the 109th General Meeting of the American Society for Microbiology, in Philadelphia.
In early clinical trials, VLP vaccines appear to provide complete protection against both the H5N1 avian influenza virus and the 1918 Spanish influenza virus, said Ted Ross, an assistant professor at the University of Pittsburgh's Center for Vaccine Research.
Even better, VLP vaccines, which can be grown in cell cultures or plants, can be developed and produced twice as quickly as conventional vaccines, according to research presented May 18 at the 109th General Meeting of the American Society for Microbiology, in Philadelphia.
In early clinical trials, VLP vaccines appear to provide complete protection against both the H5N1 avian influenza virus and the 1918 Spanish influenza virus, said Ted Ross, an assistant professor at the University of Pittsburgh's Center for Vaccine Research.
Vaccine Shields Monkeys From Simian Form of HIV
May 18, 2009
Scientists inject antibody-coding genes directly into muscles. Raising hopes for the development of an AIDS vaccine that might actually work, researchers report they were able to protect monkeys against infection with simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV), the primate version of HIV.
They did so by using a novel approach that delivered antibody-producing genes directly to the animals' muscles. Typically, vaccines are aimed at ramping up the immune system to fight off infection, but this strategy eliminated that middle step.
They did so by using a novel approach that delivered antibody-producing genes directly to the animals' muscles. Typically, vaccines are aimed at ramping up the immune system to fight off infection, but this strategy eliminated that middle step.
Viral Infection Might Trigger High Blood Pressure
May 15, 2009
Mouse study shows CMV raises risk of hypertension, hardening of arteries. A hidden viral infection that most adults harbor could be a cause of high blood pressure, animal studies indicate.
Mice infected with cytomegalovirus (CMV) were more likely to develop not only high blood pressure but also the hardening of the arteries called atherosclerosis, according to a report in the May 15 issue of PLoS Pathogens by researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Boston.
"This could be of immense importance," said lead researcher Dr.
Mice infected with cytomegalovirus (CMV) were more likely to develop not only high blood pressure but also the hardening of the arteries called atherosclerosis, according to a report in the May 15 issue of PLoS Pathogens by researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Boston.
"This could be of immense importance," said lead researcher Dr.
Combo Treatment Eases Wheezing in Babies
May 13, 2009
Epinephrine, dexamethasone reduces hospitalization risk by 35%, study finds. A combination of commonly used medications may ease the symptoms of bronchiolitis .
Most Depressed Teens Don't Get Treatment
May 13, 2009
Lack of insurance often reason why, government report suggests. Nearly one in 10 American adolescents have experienced at least one bout of major depression in the past year, but only about 39 percent of those cases received treatment, a new government report released Wednesday shows.
Conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the report found that health insurance coverage was a major deciding factor in whether or not treatment occurred. For example, 42.
Conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the report found that health insurance coverage was a major deciding factor in whether or not treatment occurred. For example, 42.
More Single Women Are Having Babies
May 13, 2009
In U.S., 40 percent of new moms aren't married, CDC reports. The number of unmarried women having children has risen sharply in the United States and several other countries, according to U.S. health officials.
Health Tip
Wear Your Seat Belt During Pregnancy
May 13, 2009
Here are suggestions on what to do As a mom-to-be who is driving a car or a passenger, you're buckling up for two.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers these suggestions about using a safety belt during pregnancy:
Always use both the shoulder and lap portions of the belt.
Fasten the lap belt beneath your stomach .
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers these suggestions about using a safety belt during pregnancy:
Always use both the shoulder and lap portions of the belt.
Fasten the lap belt beneath your stomach .
Folic Acid Reduces Infant Heart Defects
May 13, 2009
Adding B vitamin to grain products cut congenital heart defects in newborns, researchers say. Since the mandatory addition of folic acid to flour, pasta and other grain products took effect in Canada more than a decade ago, fewer babies have been born with congenital heart defects, researchers report.
Folic acid, a type of vitamin B, has been shown to reduce neural tube birth defects, such as spina bifida or anencephaly. Now it seems folic acid may also prevent heart defects.
Folic acid, a type of vitamin B, has been shown to reduce neural tube birth defects, such as spina bifida or anencephaly. Now it seems folic acid may also prevent heart defects.
Before Conceiving, Take Folic Acid for One Full Year
May 12, 2009
Preemie risk 50 percent lower in those who take supplements that long, research shows. When taken for at least a year before conception, folic acid supplements can help reduce the chance of a premature birth by at least 50 percent, University of Texas researchers say.
Their study, published in the May 12 issue of PLoS Medicine, found no link to a reduction in the odds of giving birth before 37 weeks of pregnancy if the supplements were taken for less than a year before conception. The researchers also found no ties between adding folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, to a woman's diet and any pregnancy complications.
Their study, published in the May 12 issue of PLoS Medicine, found no link to a reduction in the odds of giving birth before 37 weeks of pregnancy if the supplements were taken for less than a year before conception. The researchers also found no ties between adding folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, to a woman's diet and any pregnancy complications.
Frequent Feedings May Be Making Babies Fat
May 12, 2009
Moms might not notice signs that infants are full, study concludes. Mothers who fail to notice signs that their babies are full tend to overfeed them, resulting in excess weight gain when the infants are between 6 months and a year old, a new study has found.
The finding comes from a study by Rutgers University researchers of 96 low-income black and Hispanic mothers who formula-fed their babies. The mothers recorded information about their babies' feedings, and researchers visited the mothers when the babies were 3, 6 and 12 months old to observe feedings and to weigh the babies.
The finding comes from a study by Rutgers University researchers of 96 low-income black and Hispanic mothers who formula-fed their babies. The mothers recorded information about their babies' feedings, and researchers visited the mothers when the babies were 3, 6 and 12 months old to observe feedings and to weigh the babies.
Obesity May Raise Kids' Allergy Risk
May 08, 2009
With both problems on the rise, researchers call for more study. Obese children and teens are at increased risk for allergies, especially food allergies, say U.S. researchers.
Scientists Still Baffled About Origins of Swine Flu
May 08, 2009
CDC report shows 11 cases of similar strain since 2005. Researchers say they remain puzzled as to the roots of the swine flu outbreak currently circling the globe.
A study led by researchers at the U.S.
A study led by researchers at the U.S.
FDA Orders Label Warning for Testosterone Gels
May 07, 2009
Men who use the medications must be sure none rubs off on children, agency says. Children can experience troubling health effects if they come into contact with topical testosterone gels used by some American men, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Thursday announced that two of these preparations would now carry boxed warnings to highlight the risk.
Pooches Sometimes Miss the Point
May 07, 2009
Like 2-year-old kids, dogs understand some but not all gestures, researchers say. Dogs share the same basic functional abilities as 2-year-old kids, at least when it comes to figuring out where older humans have hidden a treat.
So says a team of Hungarian researchers, who also found that 3-year-olds surpass their canine companions when confronted with the task.
At age 3, kids can locate a hidden toy by "reading" a pointed index finger, but younger children and dogs take their cues from the posture or direction of the hand, arm and torso .
So says a team of Hungarian researchers, who also found that 3-year-olds surpass their canine companions when confronted with the task.
At age 3, kids can locate a hidden toy by "reading" a pointed index finger, but younger children and dogs take their cues from the posture or direction of the hand, arm and torso .
Maternal Depression Has Negative Effect on Infants' Sleep
May 06, 2009
But study suggests disturbances reversible with behavioral, environmental changes. Women battling depression when their children are born are more likely to have infants with significant sleep issues and who run a higher risk of having early-onset depression during childhood, a new study says.
In the first six months of life, babies born to depressed mothers took longer to fall asleep at night, slept in shorter bursts and less soundly than infants born to mothers not experiencing depression. These high-risk infants also had more frequent but much shorter periods of sleep during the day, according to the findings published in the May 1 issue of Sleep.
In the first six months of life, babies born to depressed mothers took longer to fall asleep at night, slept in shorter bursts and less soundly than infants born to mothers not experiencing depression. These high-risk infants also had more frequent but much shorter periods of sleep during the day, according to the findings published in the May 1 issue of Sleep.
Swine Flu Likely to Return to U.S. Next Winter
May 06, 2009
Experts can't predict whether it will be more virulent or not. Many experts are predicting that the current outbreak of swine flu, much like the regular seasonal flu, will subside during the summer months and reappear in the fall.
That return could come with a vengeance, or not.
"We can't actually be certain, but there likely will be a reemergence," said Dr.
That return could come with a vengeance, or not.
"We can't actually be certain, but there likely will be a reemergence," said Dr.
Writing Disorder May Be Common Among Kids
May 05, 2009
Study finds rate as high as 14.7 percent in one Minnesota city. Though dyslexia and attention-deficit disorder are better known, another learning disability .
Even Barely Early Babies Face Respiratory Risks
May 05, 2009
Need for oxygen, however, sometimes limits options, researcher says. Babies born just a few weeks premature still have a much greater chance of developing a respiratory tract infection, a new study has found.
Researchers for Kaiser Permanente found an increased risk for the infection .
Researchers for Kaiser Permanente found an increased risk for the infection .
Fad Baby Names Tend to Fizzle Fast
May 05, 2009
Monikers seem to get staying power from slow growth in popularity. Faddish baby names don't retain their appeal for long, a new study suggests. But names that take their time becoming popular seem most apt to stick around.
The findings, from research published Tuesday in a top scientific journal, offer insight into how we become suspicious of sudden fads and prefer the tried and true, said the study's lead author, Jonah Berger, assistant professor of marketing at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
The findings, from research published Tuesday in a top scientific journal, offer insight into how we become suspicious of sudden fads and prefer the tried and true, said the study's lead author, Jonah Berger, assistant professor of marketing at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
Testosterone Injections Offer Hope for Male Contraceptive
May 05, 2009
Possible alternative to current birth control methods needs more study. Injectable testosterone may be an effective form of male contraception, new research suggests.
Chinese researchers injected 1,045 healthy, fertile Chinese men aged 20 to 45 years with a 500 milligram formulation of testosterone undecanoate in tea seed oil once a month for 30 months.
All of the study participants had a normal medical history and had fathered at least one child within two years of beginning the study.
Chinese researchers injected 1,045 healthy, fertile Chinese men aged 20 to 45 years with a 500 milligram formulation of testosterone undecanoate in tea seed oil once a month for 30 months.
All of the study participants had a normal medical history and had fathered at least one child within two years of beginning the study.
Keeping Appointments Key to Keeping Vaccines on Track
May 05, 2009
Children fall behind on shots when parents don't make it to the doctor. Scheduling issues, communication problems and a lack of belief in the importance of vaccinations have been identified as some of the biggest hurdles to getting parents to bring their children in for immunization appointments, U.S. researchers report.
More Low-Income Kids Are Getting Vaccinated
May 04, 2009
The immunization gap between wealthier, poorer children is shrinking, study finds The good news from a new study is that more American children from low-income families are getting the vaccines they need.
The bad news is that there's still a wide disparity between low- and high-income children when it comes to protection against diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough (pertussis), via the combo DTaP vaccine, the researchers say.
In a study published in the May issue of the Archives of Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, researchers reported that timely vaccinations were up for low-income children for all vaccines, except the Haemophilus-influenzae (Hib) vaccine, where levels remained unchanged.
The bad news is that there's still a wide disparity between low- and high-income children when it comes to protection against diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough (pertussis), via the combo DTaP vaccine, the researchers say.
In a study published in the May issue of the Archives of Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, researchers reported that timely vaccinations were up for low-income children for all vaccines, except the Haemophilus-influenzae (Hib) vaccine, where levels remained unchanged.
Brain Anatomy Could Point to Autism
May 04, 2009
These children tend to have larger amygdala, a neural center for emotion. Autistic toddlers seem more likely to have an enlarged amygdala, a brain area linked with facial recognition and emotions, University of North Carolina researchers report.
This brain abnormality appears to be tied to the ability to share attention and experiences with others, the team said.
"This study adds clarification to a potential fundamental brain mechanism underlying social deficits in autism.
This brain abnormality appears to be tied to the ability to share attention and experiences with others, the team said.
"This study adds clarification to a potential fundamental brain mechanism underlying social deficits in autism.
Health Tip
Get Fit After Baby is Born
May 04, 2009
But don't overdo it While new moms are focused on taking care of their newborns, many are anxious to drop the extra pounds they gained during pregnancy.
Before you begin or resume an exercise program, speak with your doctor.
Here are suggestions, courtesy of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, to help get you started exercising after delivery:
Begin exercising at a slow pace, especially if you didn't exercise much during your pregnancy.
Before you begin or resume an exercise program, speak with your doctor.
Here are suggestions, courtesy of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, to help get you started exercising after delivery:
Begin exercising at a slow pace, especially if you didn't exercise much during your pregnancy.
Health Tip
Easing Back Pain During Pregnancy
May 01, 2009
Suggestions to help reduce the strain While you're pregnant, all that extra weight can lead to significant back pain.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers these suggestions to help prevent or relieve that pain in your back:
Avoid completely flat or high-heeled shoes; something in between with a low heel and supportive arch is best.
Don't lift heavy objects by yourself.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers these suggestions to help prevent or relieve that pain in your back:
Avoid completely flat or high-heeled shoes; something in between with a low heel and supportive arch is best.
Don't lift heavy objects by yourself.
Swine Flu Vaccine Still Months Away
April 30, 2009
Search for correct formulation, egg-based production system are biggest challenges, experts say. In the face of a possible swine flu pandemic, U.S. health officials are already collecting information and ingredients with an eye to creating a swine flu vaccine.
Health Tip
After Baby is Born
April 29, 2009
Suggestions for maintaining a healthy relationship with your partner When baby arrives, he or she may impact your entire life. And while the birth of a son or daughter can bring you and your partner closer, the stress of parenting and lack of sleep can be a challenge for many couples.
The American Academy of Family Physicians offers this advice on how couples can keep their relationship healthy and strong after baby is born:
Remember to communicate with each other clearly and often.
The American Academy of Family Physicians offers this advice on how couples can keep their relationship healthy and strong after baby is born:
Remember to communicate with each other clearly and often.
Research Highlights Genetic Risk for Autism
April 28, 2009
Expert calls new findings a 'crack in the facade' of the disorder. Inheriting abnormal mutations of two common genes can raise the risk for developing autism, according to one of two new studies highlighting the complex genetic roots of the disorder.
Both genes are located in the brain's frontal lobe region, responsible for complex social behavior and abstract thought, and are normally involved in the proper functioning of healthy brain cell connections. Both also play a key role in the formation of those connections, or synapses, which allow brain cells to communicate and enable learning, cognition, and memory.
Both genes are located in the brain's frontal lobe region, responsible for complex social behavior and abstract thought, and are normally involved in the proper functioning of healthy brain cell connections. Both also play a key role in the formation of those connections, or synapses, which allow brain cells to communicate and enable learning, cognition, and memory.
Universal Flu Vaccine Shows Promise
April 27, 2009
Researchers report low dose triggered immune response. A new, universal flu vaccine might protect against serious complications and death from different strains of flu, Saint Louis University researchers report.
This type of vaccine could prove important in protecting people against flu outbreaks, such as the current swine flu crisis.
Currently, new vaccines have to be developed each flu season to match circulating influenza strains.
This type of vaccine could prove important in protecting people against flu outbreaks, such as the current swine flu crisis.
Currently, new vaccines have to be developed each flu season to match circulating influenza strains.
Pregnant Women With Epilepsy Should Avoid Valproate
April 27, 2009
New guidelines stress that, with good planning, most moms-to-be will do fine. Despite recent concerns about fetal malformations linked to the anti-seizure medication valproate, most women with epilepsy can expect to have a relatively uneventful pregnancy with careful planning and preparation, say new guidelines from the American Academy of Neurology.
Whenever possible, women should avoid taking valproate (Depakote) while pregnant, the guidelines state, because its use has been associated with fetal malformations and a decline in cognitive abilities in children whose mothers took the drug during pregnancy.
However, "women with well-controlled epilepsy can safely have children," stressed the lead author of the new guidelines, Dr.
Whenever possible, women should avoid taking valproate (Depakote) while pregnant, the guidelines state, because its use has been associated with fetal malformations and a decline in cognitive abilities in children whose mothers took the drug during pregnancy.
However, "women with well-controlled epilepsy can safely have children," stressed the lead author of the new guidelines, Dr.
Autism Tied to Older Moms, Breech Birth
April 27, 2009
But it's unlikely these factors cause the neurological condition, experts say. Children of older mothers and children who have breech deliveries are almost twice as likely to develop autism spectrum disorders (ASD), U.S. researchers report.
Meds Help Kids With ADHD in Classroom
April 27, 2009
Study finds they do better than unmedicated peers but not as well as kids without disorder. Children who take medication to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) do better in elementary school than those who don't, a new study has found.
Of 594 children whose parents reported an ADHD diagnosis, those who took medication scored 2.9 points higher on standardized math tests and 5.
Of 594 children whose parents reported an ADHD diagnosis, those who took medication scored 2.9 points higher on standardized math tests and 5.
Pregnant and Older May Mean More Complications
April 23, 2009
CDC finds some problems on the rise, with no clear explanations. Although the rate of complications during pregnancy has remained unchanged since 1993, the percentage of pregnant women with preexisting conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, has increased, a new study finds.
The scientists speculated that the increase was driven by more obese women and more older women having babies. Both obesity and the mother's age have been linked to increased complications during pregnancy and delivery, according to researchers from the U.
The scientists speculated that the increase was driven by more obese women and more older women having babies. Both obesity and the mother's age have been linked to increased complications during pregnancy and delivery, according to researchers from the U.