Health News

Amyloid Plaques Found in Non-Alzheimer Elders
Two brain-imaging techniques have been able to see brain deposits of amyloid beta, a precursor to developing amyloid plaques, in seemingly normal older individuals. The amyloid plaques are a hallmark to Alzheimer's disease. This brain-imaging technique could help identify patients for therapies to prevent the development of dementia.
A Better Kidney Measurement
In a new study, researchers argue that the current way for diagnosing kidney failure in patients with cirrhosis is not accurate enough. Their results show that measures used by the Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN) may offer more precise results.
Shock and Awe On Breast Cancer
To add strength to the war on breast cancer, invasive radiologists have developed an innovative technique that both stuns a breast tumor’s growth by blocking an enzyme needed to encourage cancer cells’ growth and injecting a powerful cancer drug directly into the tumor. Think of it as a Shock (laser used to block the enzyme) and Awe (injecting drugs directly into the tumor) approach to delay the growth and spread of breast cancer.
Exercise Decreases Salt’s Effect on Blood Pressure
Evidence mounts from all corners to continue a regular exercise program and low-salt diet.   A new study supports this recommendation and shows an inverse relationship in the amount of exercise one gets and the effect salt intake has on their blood pressure.
Farmacology or Farm Ecology
We already knew pesticides caused many cancers, but now research has been extended to autoimmune diseases.   A lengthy study involving 77,000 women showed that greater exposure to pesticides results in a higher likelihood of developing lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
Pricey Cardiac Pills
One of the most important things that heart patients can do to better their health is to take the drugs they are prescribed. However, many patients skip out on their pills, often because prescription drugs costs are high.
FDA: "Food Coloring Still Safe"
In light of mounting reports, the FDA's Food Advisory Committee has reviewed the evidence that shows that artificial food coloring can cause behavioral problems in some children. The committee has concluded that artificial dyes are still safe.
Early to Treatment, Early to Muscle Control
Dystonia is an uncommon disorder that causes the muscles to contract when they should be relaxed, sometimes disabling patients for years. Starting treatment sooner rather than later leads to better results.
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall
How does the modern woman assess her body image? Apparently, it’s not just by looking in the mirror. Women of all ages base body image largely on how important their social group and family perceive them.
Singing is Soothing
Before performing knee replacement surgery, doctors had to get the patient's blood pressure under control. A 76-year-old woman did not respond to the usual drug treatments. However, after she sang a few religious songs, her blood pressure dropped dramatically.