Current Research from Top Journals

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• Caffeine Intake During Pregnancy May Be Associated With Risk of Smaller Babies

  Last Updated: 2008-12-1  ::

  There have been many studies on the effect of caffeine on developing babies but the answer remains unclear. In this study, researchers from UK found a link between caffeine consumption and an increased risk of small babies.

• Spray Associated With Reduction in Hot Flash Frequency

  Last Updated: 2008-12-1  ::

  Hot flashes can cause some very uncomfortable moments. A study from Brown University found a low dose hormone spray may provide some relief for women with moderate to severe hot flashes.

• MP3 (iPod) Headphones Near ICD or Pacemaker May Cause Problems

  Last Updated: 2008-12-1  ::

  Certain high voltage and magnetic devices are known to cause interference with heart devices. Researchers from leading heart centers found that the headphones of common personal devices can also cause interference.

• Childhood Cancer Radiation Not Associated With Increased Risk of Miscarriage

  Last Updated: 2008-12-1  ::

  Radiation therapy is a common part of many cancer treatments but may effect future fertility options. The Danish Cancer Society reviewed the births of several past cancer patients and found, in most cases, there was no increased risks for birth defects.

• Sponge May Be Less Effective Than Diaphragm in Preventing Pregnancies

  Last Updated: 2008-12-1  ::

  The sponge is often seen as a less complicated birth control alternative to the diaphragm. A Cochrane Library review found that pregnancy rates were higher in women using the sponge compared to the diaphragm users.

• Covering of Head During Sleep Associated With Increase Risk of SIDS

  Last Updated: 2008-11-13  ::

  The cause of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is still unclear, but several habits are known to increase the risk for it. Researchers in England reviewed previous studies demonstrated how blankets in the crib can increase the risk for SIDS.

• Acupressure May Decrease Preoperative Anxiety in Children

  Last Updated: 2008-11-11  ::

  Medical procedures such as colonoscopy and endoscopy can be stressful on children. Researchers from Yale University found that a simple acupressure treatment may relieve some of the anxiety.

• Moderate Intensity Walking May Reduce Total Cholesterol/HDL Ratio in Men With Hypercholesterolemia

  Last Updated: 2008-11-11  ::

  Physical activity is recommended to help decrease risks of heart disease including high cholesterol. Researchers in England set out to determine if a simple walking program really did provide cholesterol benefits.

• Therapeutic Exercise Reduces Pain and Improves Function for Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis

  Last Updated: 2008-11-11  ::

  Osteoarthritis causes inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the affected joint. While the painful joints may encourage rest, several studies have shown that exercise can reduce pain and decrease stiffness.

• Increased Dietary Fiber May Improve Constipation Conditions With Pelvic Floor Disorder

  Last Updated: 2008-11-11  ::

  Constipation is a fairly common problem and for people with pelvic floor disorders it can become a significant one. A study at the Indiana University Hospital found that a high fiber diet not only decreased constipation but decreased risk of further pelvic floor complications.

• Poorly Controlled Maternal Asthma May Increase Risk of Preterm Birth

  Last Updated: 2008-11-11  ::

  Many mothers-to-be with asthma decrease or even avoid their asthma medications because of fears of the effect of asthma medication on developing babies. The University of New Mexico found that avoiding the medications was actually more harmful to mom and baby.

• Varicella Vaccine May Be Helpful After Exposure to Chickenpox

  Last Updated: 2008-11-11  ::

  The Varicella vaccine provides protection against developing chickenpox but not everyone receives the vaccine. Studies have begin to show that the vaccine delivered shortly after exposure may still be able to provide protective benefits.

• Counseling May Be Associated With Improved Short Term Weight Loss in People at Risk of Developing Diabetes

  Last Updated: 2008-11-11  ::

  Being overweight is a major risk factor for the development of type 2 diabetes, but weight loss can be difficult to achieve. Researchers in England found some basic counseling efforts were helpful to people trying to lose weight.

• Decongestants and Antihistamines May Have Little Use in Treatment of Otitis Media in Children

  Last Updated: 2008-10-6  ::

  These medications are given to relieve the discomfort and shorten the length of otitis media, or ear infection. However, researchers found that the prescription of decongestants and antihistamines made no improvements in either.

• Leech Therapy May Improve Arthritic Pain and Functionality

  Last Updated: 2008-10-6  ::

  Osteoarthritis causes inflammation in the joints which results in pain and limited movement. In a recent German study, the unique benefits of leech therapy were found useful in relief of pain and improvement in function for osteoarthritis patients.

• Premedication With Lidocaine Gel May Decrease Discomfort During Mammography

  Last Updated: 2008-10-6  ::

  Mammography is the best known tool for breast cancer screening, but it is an uncomfortable procedure for some women. A recent study found that a lidocaine gel provided some relief of discomfort and made women more comfortable.

• Smoked Cannabis Reduces HIV-Associated Neuropathic Pain

  Last Updated: 2008-10-6  ::

  Neuropathic pain can be difficult to treat and can significantly affect quality of life. A study at San Francisco General Hospital found that cannabis may be an effective tool to managing neuropathic pain.

• Support Garment May Reduce Back Pain Discomfort During Pregnancy

  Last Updated: 2008-10-6  ::

  Physical changes and growth of the baby during pregnancy can cause strain on the low back and pelvis. A review of two pregnancy support garments found one was better in providing active support.

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