Health News

Antioxidant Shows Promise as Treatment Autism
A small trial using an antioxidant treatment improved irritability symptoms for some children with autism. 
Most Carotid Surgery Patients Surviving 5 Years
Following surgery to widen narrowed carotid arteries in the neck, most patients are still alive five years later. However, high-risk patients appear to have such a low survival risk that they may not be alive to see the surgery's benefit.
Carotid Stent Riskier Than Surgery
Among patients with blocked arteries in their neck, surgery may be the way to go. A surgical procedure to remove plaque build up in the neck's carotid artery has been found to have fewer serious risks than a less-invasive stent.
Therapy via Internet Connection
When meeting with a therapist in person isn’t an option, therapy can still be administered for major depression through web-based psychotherapy. Internet therapy is showing promising results.
A Bump On The Head: The Risk of PTSD
A concussion is serious business. Even a mild hit on the head can cause neuronal damage. While these small damages may not drastically affect civilians, the risks could be greater for soldiers.
Not Too Bad a Year for the Flu
If you were laid up with the flu this year, you didn't have as much company. This past flu season was a mild one, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Positive Outlook may be Key to Longevity
A long life may be a product of your genes and their influence on personality.  Genetic influences on personality traits, like positive outlook and emotional expression, were linked to living to be 100 years old.
Brain’s Protective Cells May Also Do Harm
Astrocytes are supporting cells that are protective and do housekeeping for neurons in the brain.  Beta amyloid build up in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) may cause the astrocytes to defend themselves.
Another Weapon for Fighting Fear
While exposure therapy remains the first line of defense for post-traumatic stress disorder, it remains an imperfect treatment. But an inexpensive drug may enhance its effectiveness.
Childhood Cancer Warriors at Higher Risk of GI Cancers
Gastrointestinal cancers show up anywhere along the digestive tract. And while risk factors for each organ vary, a separate group of people appear to be at greater risk.