Peru's 'mermaid' baby ready for risky surgery to correct rare defect

LIMA, Peru (AP) - Peru's "little mermaid" - the baby born with legs fused from her thighs to her ankles - will undergo delicate surgery Tuesday night to begin repairing her rare birth defect, her doctors said Monday....More

Montreal team solves dilemma of freezing human eggs; baby born using approach

TORONTO (CP) - Montreal researchers have pulled off a Canadian fertility first that may have huge implications for women hoping, for health or personal reasons, to preserve their ability to bear children beyond the time-frame Mother Nature envisaged....More

Erectile dysfunction, low testosterone may signal increased heart risk

TORONTO (MRI) - You probably don't need a study to know there's a connection between men's sexual function and affairs of the heart. But new research is shedding light on the relationship between things like erectile dysfunction and testosterone levels and a man's heart health in the literal sense....More

MADD teams up with liquor board to try and prevent drinking and driving

TORONTO (CP) - To help prevent drinking and driving this summer, the Liquor Board of Ontario (LCBO) and MADD Canada (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) are offering a hospitality kit to help hosts with unexpected overnight guests....More

Health Cda warns consumers not to use possibly contaminated health products

OTTAWA (CP) - Health Canada is warning consumers not to use any natural health products exported or sold by The Master's Miracle of Minnesota because the products may contain harmful bacteria. These products are not authorized for sale in Canada....More

Bracing for West Nile season

WASHINGTON (AP) - Patricia Heller was super-healthy, an avid skier and competitive bicyclist. So when she collapsed in the street after a daylong bike ride, she first shrugged off the weakness as cramps. By the next morning, Heller's left leg was completely paralysed....More

Dozens of municipalities still violating Ontario safe drinking water laws

TORONTO (CP) - Dozens of municipalities are still violating key drinking-water laws put in place after the E. coli tragedy five years ago, although the number is declining, according to data obtained Monday by The Canadian Press....More

Dermatologists take aim at skin cancer

TORONTO (MRI) - Summer may be right around the corner, but skin care experts want Canadians to start thinking now about those sunny days - and the toll the sun's rays can take on their skin....More

Allon Therapeutics Inc. reports Q1 loss of $1.2M after switch to biotech

VANCOUVER (CP) - Allon Therapeutics Inc. said Friday its first-quarter loss widened to $1.2 million from $54,347 as it continued its transformation from a biotechnology investment company into a drug developer....More

Biovail Corp. reports tentative FDA approval of insomnia tablet

TORONTO (CP) - Drug developer Biovail Corp. said Friday its insomnia treatment Zolpidem ODT has won tentative approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration....More

Statistics Canada test clinic finds Canadian underestimating true weight

OTTAWA (CP) - A test clinic in Calgary has demonstrated what Statistics Canada already suspected - many Canadians routinely underestimate their true weight....More

AP survey finds 14 states gave impotence drugs to registered sex offenders

WASHINGTON (AP) - Nearly 800 convicted sex offenders in 14 states got Medicaid-funded prescriptions for Viagra and other impotence drugs, according to a survey by The Associated Press. The majority of the cases were in New York, Florida and Texas....More

Doctors: Egyptian infant leaves hospital after surgery to remove second head

CAIRO, Egypt (AP) - A 14-month-old girl has been discharged from hospital more than two months after an operation that removed a second head sharing a blood vessel with her brain, doctors said Saturday....More

Despite public concern, data show most fresh foods carry no pesticide residue

OTTAWA (CP) - Despite consumer concern about pesticide residue on fruits and vegetables, the great majority of such foods contain no detectable contamination, says a study based on federal data....More

What is Junior really eating at school? Lunch system allows parents to spy

MARIETTA, Ga. (AP) - As Garin Hughes picks through his school-lunch burrito and unidentifiable apple-pear concoction, he has a secret. Hidden underneath the eighth-grader's right leg is a chocolate cookie in shrink-wrap plastic. That's for dessert....More

Breast cancer survivors reduce chance of recurrence by dragon boat racing

TORONTO (CP) - Eleanor Nielsen had never heard of the sport when she launched Dragons Abreast, a Toronto-based dragon boat team for breast cancer survivors. "I didn't know what a dragon boat was, quite frankly," says the 67-year-old Nielsen....More

Rudy Giuliani defends report that says Canadian drugs pose threat

TORONTO (CP) - Former New York City mayor Rudy Giuliani on Thursday defended his report that suggests prescription drug imports into the United States, including those from Canada, pose a threat to Americans....More

Pregnancy may ease psoriasis, study finds

TORONTO (MRI) - If you suffer from psoriasis, pregnancy may bring some welcome relief, a new study shows. And it's a finding that could lead to new ways of easing the symptoms of other women who suffer from psoriasis as well....More

Indian government reports sharp drop in new HIV cases; first time in years

NEW DELHI (AP) - For the first time in years there has been a sharp decline in the number of new cases of HIV infections in India, a government official said Thursday, claiming the country's strategy to counter the epidemic was showing results....More

Children's activity levels get low grade in national assessment

TORONTO (CP) - Canada gets an overall D on a new report card that assesses physical activity among children and youth. In fact, the report card, released Thursday, says that less than half of Canadian kids are active enough for basic healthy development....More

General Mills Canada Corp. recalling packages of frozen vegetables

MISSISSAUGA, Ont. (CP) - General Mills Canada Corp. is voluntarily recalling 640-gram packages of Frozen Green Giant Broccoli, Carrots, Cauliflower & Cheese Sauce because the product may contain metal particles. The product bears the UPC code 69052 07145....More

Chinese official says more than 1,000 migratory birds have died of avian flu

BEIJING (AP) - More than 1,000 migratory birds have died of avian flu in western China, but no human cases of the disease have been found, the country's chief veterinary official said Friday....More

American colleagues vouched for doctor linked to 87 deaths in Australia

BRISBANE, Australia (AP) - A surgeon linked to the deaths of at least 87 patients in Australia over two years had been given glowing references by six colleagues in the United States, despite having been cited for negligence there earlier, according to copies of the references....More

CFIA warns people not to consume Mauri brand Bon Taleggio cheese

OTTAWA (CP) - The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is warning people not to consume Mauri brand Bon Taleggio cheese, product of Italy, because the product may be contaminated with listeria monocytogenes....More

Urgent action needed on human, animal vaccines to stem threat of flu pandemic

TORONTO (CP) - Urgent action is needed to ramp up the world's capacity to make mass amounts of effective vaccines to protect people and poultry against influenza strains that threaten to spark a flu pandemic, international experts argue in a special series of articles Thursday in the journal Nature. ...More

Second-hand smoke as bad for women's fertility as if they smoked themselves

TORONTO (CP) - New Canadian research shows that regular exposure to what's called sidestream smoke - the smoke coming off the end of a lit cigarette - is as harmful to a woman's fertility as if she herself smokes. ...More

Angiotech and Boston Scientific report good results from Taxus stent tests

VANCOUVER (CP) - Angiotech Pharmaceuticals Inc. and partner Boston Scientific reported good results Wednesday from clinical trials of their Taxus coronary stent systems. ...More

U.N. health agency urges preparations for possible flu pandemic

GENEVA (AP) - The World Health Organization wrapped up its annual meeting Wednesday after urging preparations for a possible influenza pandemic and improved cancer prevention and control. ...More

6 more polio cases detected in Indonesia; house-to-house vaccination underway

JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) - Six more polio cases have been detected in Indonesia, bringing the total to 14, the World Health Organization said Wednesday. ...More

China denies reports of human cases of H5N1 flu infection, WHO says

(CP) - Chinese health authorities have denied Internet reports that there have been human infections and deaths caused by the H5N1 flu virus in their country, the head of the World Health Organization's influenza branch said Wednesday. ...More

Second-hand smoke as bad for women's fertility as if they smoked themselves

TORONTO (CP) - New Canadian research shows that regular exposure to what's called sidestream smoke - the smoke coming off the end of a lit cigarette - is as harmful to a woman's fertility as if she herself smokes....More

U.N. health agency urges preparations for possible flu pandemic

GENEVA (AP) - The World Health Organization wrapped up its annual meeting Wednesday after urging preparations for a possible influenza pandemic and improved cancer prevention and control. Delegates to the U.N....More

Concern grows about rodent virus now linked to six transplant deaths

MILWAUKEE (AP) - Health officials are asking doctors to watch for unusual illnesses in organ transplant and blood transfusion patients now that at least six deaths have been linked to a virus carried by hamsters and mice....More

Indonesian polio outbreak leaves children crippled, parents confused

GIRI JAYA, Indonesia (AP) - Big tears stream down Siti Fauziah's cheeks as she snuggles her doll and buries her face into her mother's shoulder. She's lost her balance and fallen again, as the 4 1/2-year-old learns what it means to live with polio....More

Health Canada posts adverse drug reaction database on the Internet

OTTAWA (CP) - Anyone with an online connection can now check out Health Canada's website to look at adverse drug reactions that have been reported since 1965....More

China denies reports of human cases of H5N1 flu infection, WHO says

(CP) - Chinese health authorities have denied Internet reports that there have been human infections and deaths caused by the H5N1 flu virus in their country, the head of the World Health Organization's influenza branch said Wednesday. Dr....More

Angiotech and Boston Scientific report good results from Taxus stent tests

VANCOUVER (CP) - Angiotech Pharmaceuticals Inc. and partner Boston Scientific reported good results Wednesday from clinical trials of their Taxus coronary stent systems. Nine-month data from a U.S....More

Indian government reports sharp drop in new HIV cases; first time in years

NEW DELHI (AP) - For the first time in years there has been a sharp decline in the number of new cases of HIV infections in India, a government official said Thursday, claiming the country's strategy to counter the epidemic was showing results....More

Patients shouldn't wait more than 8 weeks for cardiac defibrillator: experts

TORONTO (CP) - Patients who need an implantable cardiac defibrillator should wait no longer than seven or eight weeks for the procedure, the Canadian Cardiovascular Society said Tuesday....More

States told to bar Medicaid-paid Viagra for offenders or face sanctions

WASHINGTON (AP) - Legislators moved Tuesday to eliminate federal payments for Viagra and other drugs that treat impotence, as a federal agency warned states that they could face sanctions if they don't end Medicaid coverage for such drugs for convicted sex offenders....More

Debate heated as House of Representatives votes on stem cell research bills

WASHINGTON (AP) - Ignoring a veto threat, the House of Representatives moved Tuesday toward approving a bill that would loosen President George W. Bush's restrictions on stem cell research....More

Airborne lead emission 13 times higher in Canada than U.S. in 2002: study

TORONTO (CP) - While airborne lead emissions appear to be on the decline across North America, Canadian companies released more than 10 times as much of the toxic metal as their American counterparts in 2002, says a study released Tuesday....More

Helping Mother Nature on the hair colour front doesn't increase cancer risk

TORONTO (CP) - For those among us who like to give Mother Nature a hand - or Father Time a shove - when it comes to hair colour, there is heartening news....More

6 more polio cases detected in Indonesia; house-to-house vaccination underway

JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) - Six more polio cases have been detected in Indonesia, bringing the total to 14, the World Health Organization said Wednesday. Three of the cases came from the same district in West Java where the first case was detected in April, it said....More

China: Bird flu in nature reserve isolated case, no other infections found

BEIJING (AP) - Chinese agriculture officials say bird flu found in dead wild geese at a nature reserve in the country's west this month was an isolated case, and no other infections have been found, a government newspaper reported Wednesday....More

Angiotech and Boston Scientific report good results from Taxus stent tests

VANCOUVER (CP) - Angiotech Pharmaceuticals Inc. and partner Boston Scientific reported good results Wednesday from clinical trials of their Taxus coronary stent systems. Nine-month data from a U.S....More

China orders emergency measures after avian flu kills migratory birds

BEIJING (AP) - China ordered emergency measures Saturday to prevent an outbreak of avian flu after investigators said migratory birds found dead in a western province this month were killed by the virus. ...More

Stem-cell scientist says research aims to help those with incurable diseases

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) - A leading stem-cell researcher said it could be decades before scientific breakthroughs by his team will benefit humans, but he expressed hope that they will eventually aid people with incurable illnesses. ...More

Five years after Walkerton, effort to protect drinking water still not over

TORONTO (CP) - It was five years ago that a small-town disaster destroyed lives, tarnished personal and political reputations and shattered Canadian complacency about something long taken for granted - tap water. ...More

Ex-employees of breast-implant manufacturer say company made defective parts

WASHINGTON (AP) - Two former employees of a breast-implant manufacturer alleged the company covered up high rupture rates and workers were so fearful of bosses finding defective implant parts that they hid the parts in the ceiling. ...More

Texas passes bill allowing purchase of prescription drugs from Canada

AUSTIN (AP) - Texans could buy cheaper prescription drugs from Canada under a bill tentatively approved in the state House of Representatives on Sunday. ...More

Study suggests regulation playground equipment keeps kids safe

TORONTO (CP) - The risk of injury to children was reduced after playgrounds were retrofitted by the Toronto District School Board, a new study suggests....More

Risk of side effects from cholesterol drug Crestor higher than believed: study

DALLAS (AP) - Contrary to government claims, side effects happen more often with Crestor, a cholesterol-lowering drug that consumer advocates tried to get off the market earlier this year, a new analysis shows....More

Home, cottage wells should be tested for illness-causing contaminants: doctors

TORONTO (CP) - Water may be the elixir of life, but for about 10 million Canadians who rely on wells, it can also pose a serious risk to health. Wells at homes and cottages should be tested to ensure they aren't contaminated with nasty bugs like E....More

Determined patient and surgeon balance beauty and life, home and care

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) - On July 14, 2004, Rafaella Calixto Oliveira, 23, lay on the operating table for the 12th time since coming to this city over a year before....More

Officials vow to crack down on Medicaid-reimbursed Viagra for sex offenders

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - The U.S. government is scrambling to find a way to close a loophole that allows convicted rapists and other high-risk sex offenders to receive Viagra at taxpayer expense....More

Boston Scientific says FDA approves extending shelf life of stent

NATICK, Mass. (AP) - Boston Scientific Corp. said Monday that federal regulators have approved extending the shelf life of its Taxus Express 2 coronary stent system to 12 months from the previous approved shelf life of nine months....More

China sends three million doses of bird flu vaccine to area where geese died

BEIJING (AP) - The Chinese government has rushed millions of doses of avian flu vaccine to a western province where migrating geese were found dead earlier this month, saying every farm bird must be inoculated against the disease, a news report said Monday....More

3 organ transplant recipients die from virus related to rodents

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) - An organ donor who was exposed to a common rodent virus, possibly from a hamster, passed the disease to four transplant patients, three of whom died, officials said Monday....More

Bush vows to veto stem cell legislation that would ease funding restrictions

WASHINGTON (AP) - President George W. Bush is wading into a political controversy over science that has divided his own party and could bring the first veto of his presidency....More

Stem-cell scientist says research aims to help those with incurable diseases

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) - A leading stem-cell researcher said it could be decades before scientific breakthroughs by his team will benefit humans, but he expressed hope that they will eventually aid people with incurable illnesses....More

Five years after Walkerton, effort to protect drinking water still not over

TORONTO (CP) - It was five years ago that a small-town disaster destroyed lives, tarnished personal and political reputations and shattered Canadian complacency about something long taken for granted - tap water. The deadly May 2000 tainted-water tragedy in Walkerton, Ont....More

A chronology of events surrounding the outbreak of E. coli in Walkerton

(CP) - A chronology of events surrounding the deadly May 2000 outbreak of E. coli in the midwestern Ontario farming community of Walkerton: May 12, 2000: Torrential downpour washes bacteria from cattle manure into shallow town well....More

China orders emergency measures after avian flu kills migratory birds

BEIJING (AP) - China ordered emergency measures Saturday to prevent an outbreak of avian flu after investigators said migratory birds found dead in a western province this month were killed by the virus....More

Ex-employees of breast-implant manufacturer say company made defective parts

WASHINGTON (AP) - Two former employees of a breast-implant manufacturer alleged the company covered up high rupture rates and workers were so fearful of bosses finding defective implant parts that they hid the parts in the ceiling....More

New York sex offenders getting Viagra paid for by Medicaid, official says

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - Scores of convicted rapists and other high-risk sex offenders in New York have been getting Viagra paid for by Medicaid for the last five years, the state's comptroller said Sunday....More

Texas passes bill allowing purchase of prescription drugs from Canada

AUSTIN (AP) - Texans could buy cheaper prescription drugs from Canada under a bill tentatively approved in the state House of Representatives on Sunday....More

Most diabetics not controlling their blood sugar

WASHINGTON (AP) - A dismal two-thirds of the 18 million Type 2 diabetics in the United States don't have their blood sugar under control, putting them at high risk of the disease's nastiest complications, even death. Yet most are unaware they're doing so poorly, frustrated diabetes specialists said Wednesday. ...More

Most diabetics not controlling their blood sugar

WASHINGTON (AP) - A dismal two-thirds of the 18 million Type 2 diabetics in the United States don't have their blood sugar under control, putting them at high risk of the disease's nastiest complications, even death. Yet most are unaware they're doing so poorly, frustrated diabetes specialists said Wednesday. ...More

Simpler test overlooks many potential colon cancers in women

BOSTON (AP) - A widely used screening tool for colon cancer, sigmoidoscopy, misses precancerous growths in almost two-thirds of women - a disturbing failure rate twice as high as the one seen in men, a government-backed study found. ...More

Drug body again recommends against paying for expensive Fabry disease therapy

TORONTO (CP) - People suffering from a rare and debilitating disease called Fabry's experienced another setback Thursday in their fight to get provincial and territorial governments to pay for an expensive drug treatment they believe improves and extends their lives. ...More

South Korean scientists clone stem cells genetically matched to patients

TORONTO (CP) - Doctors have long dreamed of being able to grow replacement organs or cell-based therapies to treat such conditions as diabetes and Parkinson's disease. Now South Korean scientists have brought that dream a step closer by creating the first human embryonic stem cells tailor-made for individuals. ...More

British paper reports man identified by mime as 'Piano Man' found in France

LONDON (AP) - A British newspaper reported Thursday that Steven Villa Massone - the man a Polish mime identified as the mysterious 'Piano Man' being cared for in an English hospital - has been tracked down in southern France. ...More

Study finds correlation between obesity and knee tears

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (AP) - As people continue to get bigger, you can add knee problems to the list of ailments they are likely to face after lugging around extra pounds. ...More

WHO: Bird flu could be capable of human-to-human transmission

GENEVA (AP) - Avian flu may be capable of human-to-human transmission, raising fears of a global pandemic, the World Health Organization said Thursday. ...More

WHO: Number of dead from deadly Marburg virus in Angola hits 311

GENEVA (AP) - The number of people killed by the rare Marburg virus in Angola has hit 311, the World Health Organization said. ...More

British paper reports man identified by mime as 'Piano Man' found in France

LONDON (AP) - A British newspaper reported Thursday that Steven Villa Massone - the man a Polish mime identified as the mysterious 'Piano Man' being cared for in an English hospital - has been tracked down in southern France. ...More

WHO: Number of dead from deadly Marburg virus in Angola hits 311

GENEVA (AP) - The number of people killed by the rare Marburg virus in Angola has hit 311, the World Health Organization said. ...More

Exercise slows prostate cancer progression, study finds

TORONTO (MRI) - If you want to lower your risk of dying from prostate cancer, it's time to get moving. A new study found vigorous exercise - and lots of it - can help slow the progression of prostate cancer in older men....More

WHO: Bird flu could be capable of human-to-human transmission

GENEVA (AP) - Avian flu may be capable of human-to-human transmission, raising fears of a global pandemic, the World Health Organization said Thursday. ...More

South Korean scientists clone stem cells genetically matched to patients

TORONTO (CP) - Doctors have long dreamed of being able to grow replacement organs or cell-based therapies to treat such conditions as diabetes and Parkinson's disease. Now South Korean scientists have brought that dream a step closer by creating the first human embryonic stem cells tailor-made for individuals. ...More

Drug body again recommends against paying for expensive Fabry disease therapy

TORONTO (CP) - People suffering from a rare and debilitating disease called Fabry's experienced another setback Thursday in their fight to get provincial and territorial governments to pay for an expensive drug treatment they believe improves and extends their lives. ...More

Study finds correlation between obesity and knee tears

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (AP) - As people continue to get bigger, you can add knee problems to the list of ailments they are likely to face after lugging around extra pounds. ...More

Simpler test overlooks many potential colon cancers in women

BOSTON (AP) - A widely used screening tool for colon cancer, sigmoidoscopy, misses precancerous growths in almost two-thirds of women - a disturbing failure rate twice as high as the one seen in men, a government-backed study found. ...More

Exercise slows prostate cancer progression, study finds

TORONTO (MRI) - If you want to lower your risk of dying from prostate cancer, it's time to get moving. A new study found vigorous exercise - and lots of it - can help slow the progression of prostate cancer in older men....More

Study finds correlation between obesity and knee tears

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (AP) - As people continue to get bigger, you can add knee problems to the list of ailments they are likely to face after lugging around extra pounds. Being overweight probably leads to more than half of the 850,000 annual U.S....More

South Korean scientists clone stem cells genetically matched to patients

TORONTO (CP) - Doctors have long dreamed of being able to grow replacement organs or cell-based therapies to treat such conditions as diabetes and Parkinson's disease....More

Simpler test overlooks many potential colon cancers in women

BOSTON (AP) - A widely used screening tool for colon cancer, sigmoidoscopy, misses precancerous growths in almost two-thirds of women - a disturbing failure rate twice as high as the one seen in men, a government-backed study found. "All our data until now has been based on men....More

Nova Scotia going totally smoke-free in public places on Dec. 1, 2006

HALIFAX (CP) - Nova Scotia will go smoke-free in all public indoor places next year. Health Promotion Minister Rodney MacDonald said Thursday the Conservative government has heard loud and clear from the public that it wants a complete ban....More

Most diabetics not controlling their blood sugar

WASHINGTON (AP) - A dismal two-thirds of the 18 million Type 2 diabetics in the United States don't have their blood sugar under control, putting them at high risk of the disease's nastiest complications, even death....More

Exercise slows prostate cancer progression, study finds

TORONTO (MRI) - If you want to lower your risk of dying from prostate cancer, it's time to get moving. A new study found vigorous exercise - and lots of it - can help slow the progression of prostate cancer in older men....More

Drug body again recommends against paying for expensive Fabry disease therapy

TORONTO (CP) - People suffering from a rare and debilitating disease called Fabry's experienced another setback Thursday in their fight to get provincial and territorial governments to pay for an expensive drug treatment they believe improves and extends their lives....More

Vietnam reports another bird flu death, raising regional death toll to 53

HANOI, Vietnam (AP) - Bird flu has killed another person in Vietnam, bringing the regional death toll to 53 as the World Health Organization continued to warn of a potential pandemic....More

New DNA screening tool could help fight invisible threats, researchers say

TORONTO (CP) - Hospitals and law enforcement officials may soon have a new weapon in the battle against the invisible perils of bioterrorism and deadly diseases like SARS, thanks to the work of a pair of University of Toronto researchers....More

WHO report charts disturbing changes in avian flu virus, urges preparations

TORONTO (CP) - The World Health Organization urged countries to make full haste with pandemic influenza preparations Wednesday as it released a report outlining disturbing changes to the H5N1 virus circulating in Asia....More

Fourth case of hantavirus in central Alberta where three others surfaces

HOBBEMA, Alta. (CP) - Another person in central Alberta has become infected with the potentially fatal hantavirus. Dr. Karen Grimsrud, the province's deputy medical health officer, said Wednesday it's the fourth case in the Hobbema area this month. "It is an adult male....More

Biomira sets up synthetic biologics unit to meet demand for vaccine technology

EDMONTON (CP) - Cancer vaccine developer Biomira Inc. has set up a separate unit to profit from growing demand for synthetic biological products used to produce vaccines, shareholders were told Wednesday....More

Happy marriage associated with better health for women

TORONTO (MRI) - Marriage may be for better or for worse, but a new study shows that the less happy women are in their relationship, the more likely they are to be in worse health - specifically when it comes to developing a condition that raises the risk of heart disease and diabetes....More

B.C. teen who is Jehovah's Witness allowed to transfer to New York hospital

VANCOUVER (CP) - A British Columbia teenager being treated for cancer and in a legal battle due to her Jehovah's Witness beliefs has been transferred to a hospital in New York City for chemotherapy treatment....More

WHO: Bird flu could be capable of human-to-human transmission

GENEVA (AP) - Bird flu may be capable of human to human transmission, raising fears of a global pandemic, the World Health Organization said Thursday....More

WHO: Number of dead from deadly Marburg virus in Angola hits 311

GENEVA (AP) - The number of people killed by the rare Marburg virus in Angola has hit 311, the World Health Organization said. As of May 17, the total number of cases, mainly in the northern province of Uige, had climbed to 337, the UN health agency said on its website....More

Soft drinks, sleeping pills linked to nighttime heartburn

TORONTO (MRI) - Heartburn keeping you awake at night? You may want to lay off the carbonated beverages or sleeping pills if this uncomfortable condition has you losing sleep....More

Swedish government calls for preventive measures after two die playing soccer

STOCKHOLM (AP) - Sweden's government called for measures to minimize health risks for young athletes Tuesday after two young boys died of heart failure while playing soccer. ...More

New Harvard research suggests invasive Kudzu vine could curb binge drinking

BOSTON (AP) - The hardy, invasive kudzu vine, introduced to the United States decades ago to control soil erosion, could have what it takes to curb binge drinking, new research suggests. ...More

Federal officials unsure how many affected by Agent Orange tests in N.B.

FREDERICTON (CP) - Federal officials say they have no idea how many people may have been affected by the testing of the herbicide Agent Orange at a Canadian military base in New Brunswick 40 years ago. ...More

As Ottawa roils in partisan politics, bird flu vaccine project languishes

TORONTO (CP) - As Ottawa roils in partisan politics, an important project green-lighted in February's budget is languishing for lack of funding. A plan to produce trial batches of a vaccine against the avian flu strain that experts fear may be poised to trigger an influenza pandemic is virtually on hold, its funding frozen by the budget stalemate. ...More

Revised Canada Food Guide to take into account multicultural society, diet

TORONTO (CP) - The next version of Canada's Food Guide will reflect the evolving cultural profile of the country, from ethnic diversity and the aging population to changing family structure and increased home and work pressures, Health Canada says. ...More

Antidepressants late in pregnancy can affect newborns, researchers say

CHICAGO (AP) - Women who take Prozac or certain other antidepressants late in pregnancy raise the risk that their babies will suffer jitteriness, irritability and serious respiratory problems during their first couple of weeks, researchers say. ...More

Deadly problems halt French study of breast cancer drug combo

CHICAGO (AP) - A study in which women with breast cancer were given two chemotherapy drugs simultaneously was cut short after the combination contributed to the deaths of two patients and caused life-threatening complications in an alarming number of others. ...More

Drug developer Migenix cuts unit offering by two thirds, citing poor markets

VANCOUVER (CP) - Drug developer Migenix Inc. has cut the size of a proposed unit offering by two thirds, citing poor market conditions, the Vancouver company announced Tuesday. ...More

For these kids, ABC's mean apples, broccoli and carrots

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. (AP) - At one preschool, the ABC's stand for apples, broccoli and carrots. ...More

Vision problems linked to speedier mental decline for seniors

TORONTO (MRI) - Problems seeing things close-up can speed up the rate of mental decline in the elderly, a new study indicates....More

Revised Canada Food Guide to take into account multicultural society, diet

TORONTO (CP) - The next version of Canada's Food Guide will reflect the evolving cultural profile of the country, from ethnic diversity and the aging population to changing family structure and increased home and work pressures, Health Canada says....More

New Harvard research suggests invasive Kudzu vine could curb binge drinking

BOSTON (AP) - The hardy, invasive kudzu vine, introduced to the United States decades ago to control soil erosion, could have what it takes to curb binge drinking, new research suggests....More

For these kids, ABC's mean apples, broccoli and carrots

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. (AP) - At one preschool, the ABC's stand for apples, broccoli and carrots....More

Federal officials unsure how many affected by Agent Orange tests in N.B.

FREDERICTON (CP) - Federal officials say they have no idea how many people may have been affected by the testing of the herbicide Agent Orange at a Canadian military base in New Brunswick 40 years ago....More

Drug developer Migenix cuts unit offering by two thirds, citing poor markets

VANCOUVER (CP) - Drug developer Migenix Inc. has cut the size of a proposed unit offering by two thirds, citing poor market conditions, the Vancouver company announced Tuesday....More

As Ottawa roils in partisan politics, bird flu vaccine project languishes

TORONTO (CP) - As Ottawa roils in partisan politics, an important project green-lighted in February's budget is languishing for lack of funding....More

Antidepressants late in pregnancy can affect newborns, researchers say

CHICAGO (AP) - Women who take Prozac or certain other antidepressants late in pregnancy raise the risk that their babies will suffer jitteriness, irritability and serious respiratory problems during their first couple of weeks, researchers say....More

Deadly problems halt French study of breast cancer drug combo

CHICAGO (AP) - A study in which women with breast cancer were given two chemotherapy drugs simultaneously was cut short after the combination contributed to the deaths of two patients and caused life-threatening complications in an alarming number of others....More

Injecting one wart with immune-testing agent can clear warts all over: study

TORONTO (CP) - Skin injections to test a person's immune response, similar to what doctors use to check for allergies, can get rid of unsightly warts - and not just one, but up to hundreds at a time by treating just a single bump, a study shows....More

Firefighter's brain doctor puts faith in medications and God

BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) - Soon after Dr. Jamil Ahmed stood before TV cameras two weeks ago and told how his brain-injured patient had snapped out of a stupor lasting almost 10 years, the telephone calls and e-mails started pouring in....More

Drug for symptoms turns out to be a surprising treatment for blood disease

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) - Doctors were just hoping to treat symptoms when they gave people with a deadly blood disorder a drug to reduce the need for transfusions. To their astonishment, signs of the disease itself disappeared in nearly half of them....More

Experts debate study claiming low-fat diets prevent return of breast cancer

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) - A new study seems to suggest that low-fat diets can help prevent a return of breast cancer in certain women, but many specialists disagreed with the conclusions, saying other factors might have played a role....More

Drug used to treat travellers diarrhea may prevent it, new research says

HOUSTON (AP) - A drug already used to treat that tourist nightmare - traveller's diarrhea - may also prevent it without causing the antibiotic resistance that can eventually make medicines ineffective, new research suggests.<a href="http://www.medbroadcast.com/channel_health_news_details.asp?news_id=6747&amp;rss=67&amp;channel_id=1039&amp;rot=3" style="color:red; text-decoration:none; font-size:12px font-family:verdana;" target="_blank">...More</a>

Bill Gates says he is giving $250 million more to fight disease

GENEVA (AP) - Microsoft honcho Bill Gates told health leaders from around the world that he is donating another $250 million to the fight against the world's deadliest diseases.<a href="http://www.medbroadcast.com/channel_health_news_details.asp?news_id=6742&amp;rss=67&amp;channel_id=1039&amp;rot=3" style="color:red; text-decoration:none; font-size:12px font-family:verdana;" target="_blank">...More</a>

Study suggests kudzu helps drinkers get drunk with fewer drinks

BOSTON (AP) - A hearty, invasive plant introduced to this country decades ago to control soil erosion could have what it takes to curb binge drinking, new research suggests....More

Allergy sufferers hit hard, say this is 'worst season ever'

TORONTO (CP) - Ah, springtime, when some people's fancies turn to staying indoors and avoiding the first warm breezes....More

Study shows modest survival gains in treatment-resistant pancreatic cancer

TORONTO (CP) - A Canadian-led study has recorded the first advance in pancreatic cancer treatment in a decade, findings that could reinvigorate a field that has notched more than its share of disheartening failures....More

Vietnam reports new avian flu case, first in more than three weeks

HANOI, Vietnam (AP) - Vietnam reported the first new human avian flu case in more than three weeks as the country struggles to combat the virus, officials said Saturday....More

As B.C. gears up to do battle with West Nile virus, Sask. hopes to stand down

TORONTO (CP) - Dr. Ross Findlater is hoping West Nile virus has tired of battle-scarred Saskatchewan. But Dr. Bonnie Henry fears the fickle virus is turning its attention to her province, lush and lovely British Columbia....More

Older drug shows new promise, may prevent prostate growths turning into cancer

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) - A new study gives encouraging signs that a hormonal drug used to fight breast cancer might help prevent abnormal prostate growths from turning into cancers....More

Windsor martial artist teaches health-care workers how to defend themselves

TORONTO (CP) - Dodging surprise knife attacks was just part of Kevin Blok's job when he used to work the night shift on the psychiatric floor of a hospital in Windsor, Ont....More

It's never too early - or late - to think about good bone health

TORONTO (CP) - Young women aspire to many things, but being stooped over is not one of them. Still, many don't even think about osteoporosis until their bones are already in trouble....More

Doctors see upward bounce in kids' injuries as trampoline popularity heightens

TORONTO (CP) - Kids may jump for joy at the sight of a trampoline, but a huge upsurge in injuries in the past decade has doctors and safety experts wishing that parents would bounce the equipment right out of their back yards.<a href="http://www.medbroadcast.com/channel_health_news_details.asp?news_id=6736&amp;rss=67&amp;channel_id=1016&amp;rot=3" style="color:red; text-decoration:none; font-size:12px font-family:verdana;" target="_blank">...More</a>

WHO still holds out hope polio transmission can be stopped in 2005

TORONTO (CP) - Despite recent frustrating setbacks, leaders of the bold international effort to eradicate polio haven't given up hope that transmission of the virus can be arrested by the end of this year. Dr....More

Number of cases of deadly Marburg virus in Angola climbs to 316, WHO reports

LISBON, Portugal (AP) - The number of cases from an outbreak of the rare Marburg virus in the northern province of Uige, Angola, has climbed to 316, the World Health Organization said. Of these, 276 were fatal, the WHO said in a statement on its website....More

Health Canada warns consumers not to use Master's Miracle, Miracle II

OTTAWA (CP) - Health Canada is warning consumers across Canada not to use the natural health products Master's Miracle Fortified Mineral Neutralizer or Miracle II Miracle Neutralizer....More

Heart attack rates higher in areas jam-packed with fast-food outlets: study

TORONTO (CP) - Here's something to chew on the next time you think of grabbing a quick bite to eat: neighbourhoods peppered with fast-food outlets have higher heart attack and death rates than those with fewer restaurants-on-the-run....More

Health care, front and centre in 2004, takes back seat in 2005 Ontario budget

TORONTO (CP) - One year after its controversial health care premium shattered a solemn Liberal promise to freeze taxes, the ministry that spends 40 cents of every Ontario government dollar appeared to take a back seat in Wednesday's provincial budget.<a href="http://www.medbroadcast.com/channel_health_news_details.asp?news_id=6705&amp;rss=67&amp;channel_id=1000&amp;rot=3" style="color:red; text-decoration:none; font-size:12px font-family:verdana;" target="_blank">...More</a>

Food agency updates alert on unlabelled products containing eggs

TORONTO (CP) - The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has broadened an earlier food recall of vegetarian products that contain egg protein not listed among ingredients on their labels.<a href="http://www.medbroadcast.com/channel_health_news_details.asp?news_id=6701&amp;rss=67&amp;channel_id=1024&amp;rot=3" style="color:red; text-decoration:none; font-size:12px font-family:verdana;" target="_blank">...More</a>

As ADHD kids grow up, treatments move into the workplace

NEW YORK (AP) - Like dormitories and dining halls, Adderall was something Cory Clair figured he'd leave behind in college....More

Weight gain may decrease benefits from quitting smoking

TORONTO (MRI) - Quitting smoking? It's definitely a step in the right direction towards improving your health. But make sure to watch your weight in the process or your lungs won't see all the benefits that come from butting out....More

American legislators seek ban on flavoured cigarettes with youth appeal

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - They're called Winter Warm Toffee, Kauai Kolada, and Twista Chill, but the flavoured cigarettes are leaving a bad taste in the mouths of lawmakers who say they should be banned because they target young people.<a href="http://www.medbroadcast.com/channel_health_news_details.asp?news_id=6703&amp;rss=67&amp;channel_id=1039&amp;rot=3" style="color:red; text-decoration:none; font-size:12px font-family:verdana;" target="_blank">...More</a>

Quebec to ban smoking in most public places beginning in January 2006

QUEBEC (CP) - A bill banning smoking in most public places in Quebec starting in January 2006 was tabled Tuesday in the provincial legislature.

The amendments to the provincial smoking law were tabled by Health Minister Philippe Couillard.<a href="http://www.medbroadcast.com/channel_health_news_details.asp?news_id=6693&amp;rss=67&amp;channel_id=1026&amp;rot=3" style="color:red; text-decoration:none; font-size:12px font-family:verdana;" target="_blank">...More</a>

Nfld. group joins growing chorus of experts taking aim at childhood obesity

ST. JOHN'S, Nfld. (CP) - A coalition of health and education groups appealed to the Newfoundland government Tuesday to do something about the province's growing problem with childhood obesity....More

Health minister considering ban on bulk drug exports to United States

OTTAWA (CP) - Health Minister Ujjal Dosanjh says he's considering a ban on bulk exports of drugs to the United States in order to head off potential drug shortages in Canada. Dosanjh said there is a real possibility the U.S....More

Low-fat dairy may lower risk of diabetes in men

CHICAGO (AP) - Eating low-fat dairy products may help slightly lower the risk of developing diabetes, a new study of more than 40,000 middle-aged men suggests. Each additional serving of low-fat dairy per day resulted in a nine per cent drop in risk....More

New rules mean lower levels of lead and mercury in paints and varnishes

OTTAWA (CP) - There will be less lead and mercury in paints and varnishes from now on.

Health Canada says new regulations set lower levels for lead and mercury in paints, enamels, varnishes, lacquers, shellacs or similar materials that dry to a solid film.<a href="http://www.medbroadcast.com/channel_health_news_details.asp?news_id=6684&amp;rss=67&amp;channel_id=1006&amp;rot=3" style="color:red; text-decoration:none; font-size:12px font-family:verdana;" target="_blank">...More</a>

Polio death toll swells to 63 in Yemen; one of worst epidemics in the world

GENEVA (AP) - The outbreak of polio in Yemen has swelled to 63 cases, making it one of the worst epidemics in the world, the UN health agency said Thursday....More

Food agency alerts public to unlabelled products containing nuts, eggs

TORONTO (CP) - The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is warning the public about food products that contain nuts and eggs which are not listed on their labels. The food agency is overseeing voluntary product recalls in both cases....More

Acupuncture may relieve migraines, study shows

TORONTO (MRI) - Migraines giving you a headache? New research shows acupuncture is effective at reducing the number of headaches and their severity - but not necessarily for the reason Chinese medicine says it works.<a href="http://www.medbroadcast.com/channel_health_news_details.asp?news_id=6685&amp;rss=67&amp;channel_id=1023&amp;rot=3" style="color:red; text-decoration:none; font-size:12px font-family:verdana;" target="_blank">...More</a>

System needed to evaluate rising prescription drug spending: economist

TORONTO (CP) - With spending on prescription drugs at a record $18 billion a year in Canada, a national system is needed to monitor medication use and evaluate whether newer, more expensive drugs are any better for patients than older, lower-cost alternatives, a health economist says....More

U.S. and Canadian researchers hone in on early test for ovarian cancer

TORONTO (CP) - Cancer researchers have long been seeking a test that would allow them to accurately and easily diagnose ovarian cancer, one of the most lethal forms of the disease, in the early stages when it is highly treatable.<a href="http://www.medbroadcast.com/channel_health_news_details.asp?news_id=6678&amp;rss=67&amp;channel_id=1033&amp;rot=3" style="color:red; text-decoration:none; font-size:12px font-family:verdana;" target="_blank">...More</a>

Ontario rubella cases likely stems from outbreak in Netherlands; Basrur

TORONTO (CP) - The rubella outbreak galloping through a cluster of religious communities in southwestern Ontario likely originated in a outbreak in the Netherlands, Ontario's chief medical officer of health said Monday. And Dr....More

Parkinson's patient files statement of claim alleging gambling caused by drug

TORONTO (CP) - An Ontario man who alleges he developed a gambling addiction as a result of using a Parkinson's drug called Mirapex is the representative claimant in a proposed class action lawsuit....More

One-third of Alta. seniors homes failed or partly met care standards: audit

EDMONTON (CP) - Almost one-third of long-term care homes reviewed by Alberta's auditor general failed or only partly met basic standards of care for seniors.<a href="http://www.medbroadcast.com/channel_health_news_details.asp?news_id=6683&amp;rss=67&amp;channel_id=1001&amp;rot=3" style="color:red; text-decoration:none; font-size:12px font-family:verdana;" target="_blank">...More</a>

Herbal remedy may affect effectiveness of breast cancer treatment

TORONTO (MRI) - If you are undergoing treatment for breast cancer, you may want to think twice about using a common herbal remedy to treat hot flashes and other menopause-like side effects....More

Despite critical shortage of nurses, nursing schools being forced to cut enrolment

OTTAWA (CP) - A critical shortage of nurses is affecting quality of care in all sectors of Canada's health system and there's no nationwide strategy for dealing with the problem, says a new federal study....More

Brazilian town declares May 9 Orgasm Day, to improve married relationships

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil (AP) - Sex rarely makes the news in Brazil's conservative Northeast, until a small town declared an official Orgasm Day on Monday....More

Dozens got dangerous bacteria from 'pocket pets' officials say

(AP) - Furry "pocket pets" like hamsters, mice and rats have sickened up to 30 people in at least 10 states with dangerous multidrug-resistant bacteria, health officials are warning....More

Emily, Jacob still most popular baby names; Jacob, Joshua tops for twins

WASHINGTON (AP) - The biblical name Jacob, the most popular choice for baby boys for the sixth straight year in the United States, also tops the first official ranking of names given to twins. Parents like to pair it with Joshua.<a href="http://www.medbroadcast.com/channel_health_news_details.asp?news_id=6651&amp;rss=67&amp;channel_id=1050&amp;rot=3" style="color:red; text-decoration:none; font-size:12px font-family:verdana;" target="_blank">...More</a>

Canada sends 3rd team to help combat Marburg outbreak, readies 4th rotation

TORONTO (CP) - Canada has sent a third team of scientists to Angola to help contain the worst outbreak of Marburg fever on record and is readying a fourth team to go later in the month if needed.<a href="http://www.medbroadcast.com/channel_health_news_details.asp?news_id=6659&amp;rss=67&amp;channel_id=1020&amp;rot=3" style="color:red; text-decoration:none; font-size:12px font-family:verdana;" target="_blank">...More</a>

Certain baby blankets sold at Sears could pose choking hazard

TORONTO (CP) - Sears Canada is warning consumers about a baby blanket that may pose a choking hazard.<a href="http://www.medbroadcast.com/channel_health_news_details.asp?news_id=6663&amp;rss=67&amp;channel_id=1050&amp;rot=3" style="color:red; text-decoration:none; font-size:12px font-family:verdana;" target="_blank">...More</a>

Biovail gets FDA approval of melt-in-mouth Tramadol pain-relief tablet

TORONTO (CP) - The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved marketing of Biovail Corp.'s Tramadol dissolving painkiller, the Canadian drugmaker announced Friday....More

Thousands infected in flu outbreak in southern Chinese city: report

HONG KONG (AP) - More than 10,000 people, mostly children, suffered from flu symptoms during an outbreak in southern China during the weeklong Labour Day holiday, a Hong Kong newspaper reported Sunday....More

Big bellies, related ills have big costs in U.S. - in dollars and deaths

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) - Americans with metabolic syndrome - a condition marked by big waistlines, diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol problems - account for $4 of every $10 spent on prescription drugs for adults in the United States, according to a study.<a href="http://www.medbroadcast.com/channel_health_news_details.asp?news_id=6662&amp;rss=67&amp;channel_id=1052&amp;rot=3" style="color:red; text-decoration:none; font-size:12px font-family:verdana;" target="_blank">...More</a>

Detroit ponders fast-food tax - a nickel extra for that Big Mac

DETROIT (AP) - Would you like fries with that? Either way, the Detroit city treasury would like a bite....More

Western premiers call for national strategy to battle crystal meth

LLOYDMINSTER, Alta. (CP) - Young Canadians are in serious peril from crystal meth, say the western premiers, and the country needs to help them with a comprehensive strategy to deal with its production, trafficking and often heart-breaking after-effects....More

Smile - happiness is good for you

TORONTO (MRI) - Happiness is good for the heart - and new evidence shows that may be true in the literal sense and not just the figurative....More

Sick kids diagnosed at day care in latest telemedicine twist

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (AP) - Marilyn Gonzalez worried that her two-year-old was coming down with an ear infection. Rather than miss work for a doctor visit, the 25-year-old single mother of two dropped her daughter off as usual at the day care and went to work....More

Rubella outbreak rises to 90 cases, health minister to visit community

TORONTO (CP) - The rubella outbreak in southwestern Ontario grew to 90 cases Thursday, including a confirmed case in a pregnant woman, as Health Minister George Smitherman planned to meet early Friday with local officials to assess the situation....More

Prescription drug distributor McKesson profits climb by 21 per cent

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) - McKesson Corp.'s quarterly profit rose 21 per cent, surprising industry analysts who expected recent financial pressures to continue to squeeze the largest U.S. distributor of prescription drugs....More

Mediterranean diet may cut risk of dying from heart disease

TORONTO (MRI) - A new study on the benefits of the Mediterranean diet is the latest to debunk the myth that if it tastes good it probably isn't good for you....More

Ottawa should worry about its own end of health agreement: western premiers

LLOYDMINSTER, Alta. (CP) - Health Minister Ujjal Dosanjh should concentrate on holding up Ottawa's end of the federal-provincial health agreement rather than lecturing the provinces on how they deliver services, say western premiers.

"I think Mr....More

Inspectors say nothing 'overtly wrong' at test kit maker that sent out virus

NEWTOWN, Ohio (AP) - Federal investigators have found nothing "overtly wrong" with the way a pharmaceutical firm handled samples of a potentially deadly flu virus that was inadvertently distributed worldwide....More

Survey examines celebrities' influence on cancer screening

WASHINGTON (AP) - Celebrities can send people to the doctor. ...More

Aging Ontario's doctors working less, accepting fewer patients

TORONTO (CP) - Ontario's medical profession is getting older, working fewer hours and accepting fewer new patients, says a new survey released Wednesday by the body that governs the province's doctors. ...More

UN says 300,000 Ethiopian children in danger of dying from malnutrition

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (AP) - As many as 300,000 Ethiopian children will die from malnutrition this year if donors do not come forward with food aid and funds, a UN official said Wednesday. ...More

Long-term survival evaluated after non-invasive prostate treatment

CHICAGO (AP) - Men with non-aggressive prostate cancer who were treated with hormones or took no action at all are unlikely to die of the disease even 20 years later, new research shows. ...More

Drug company stockholders reject Minnesota resolution on Canadian pharmacies

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Shareholders at three of the United States' biggest drugmakers have voted down a Minnesota state-sponsored resolution urging them to keep supplies flowing to Canadian pharmacies that cater to American customers. ...More

Widow of asbestos victim at Buckingham Palace awarded damages

LONDON (AP) - A British court on Wednesday awarded the widow of a maintenance worker who died after exposure to asbestos at Buckingham Palace 177,000 pounds ($318,000 US) in damages. ...More

Diet, exercise best for preventing metabolic syndrome

TORONTO (MRI) - Lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise are more effective than medication at preventing a condition that can be a precursor to diabetes, a recent study found....More

Malaria kills one million a year, says first UN global report on the disease

UNITED NATIONS (AP) - Malaria kills more than one million people and sickens between 350 million and 500 million people a year, mainly in Africa, according to a UN report launched Tuesday. ...More

Ontario's aging doctors working less, accepting fewer patients

TORONTO (CP) - Ontario's medical profession is getting older, working fewer hours and accepting fewer new patients, says a new survey released Wednesday by the body that governs the province's doctors. ...More

Not enough, too much sleep linked to diabetes

TORONTO (MRI) - Constantly feel like you're coming up short on sleep? New research shows that getting too few zzz's on a regular basis can increase your risk of developing diabetes. But if you're proud of your ability to sleep for hours on end, we've got some bad news for you too: Too much sleep can also up your risk....More

AstraZeneca says trial of stroke drug shows success in reducing disability

LONDON (AP) - AstraZeneca PLC said Wednesday its experimental drug designed to limit damage caused by strokes has proved effective by one measure in clinical trials. ...More

Edmonton researcher hopes parents battle bias against ugly children

EDMONTON (CP) - A University of Alberta researcher has hit a chord with parents of attractive children with a study that suggests they're treated better than ugly kids. ...More

Researchers call for end to estimated one million unneeded episiotomies

CHICAGO (AP) - For years, some doctors believed that an episiotomy, an incision to enlarge the vaginal opening during childbirth, would prevent spontaneous tearing that would be harder to repair. ...More

Indonesia confirms 2nd case of polio, confident it can avert major outbreak

JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) - Indonesia on Wednesday confirmed a second case of polio, but health authorities who were confronting the disease for the first time in a decade said they were confident of preventing a major outbreak. ...More

Rubella outbreak despite availability of vaccine 'discouraging': Smitherman

TORONTO (CP) - Ontario's rubella outbreak has ballooned to at least 83 cases, and provincial Health Minister George Smitherman said Wednesday it's a "discouraging" reminder of the importance of vaccinating children against preventable diseases. ...More

Long-term survival evaluated after non-invasive prostate treatment

CHICAGO (AP) - Men with non-aggressive prostate cancer who were treated with hormones or took no action at all are unlikely to die of the disease even 20 years later, new research shows. ...More

Indonesia confirms 2nd case of polio, confident it can avert major outbreak

JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) - Indonesia on Wednesday confirmed a second case of polio, but health authorities who were confronting the disease for the first time in a decade said they were confident of preventing a major outbreak. ...More

AstraZeneca says trial of stroke drug shows success in reducing disability

LONDON (AP) - AstraZeneca PLC said Wednesday its experimental drug designed to limit damage caused by strokes has proved effective by one measure in clinical trials. ...More

Widow of asbestos victim at Buckingham Palace awarded damages

LONDON (AP) - A British court on Wednesday awarded the widow of a maintenance worker who died after exposure to asbestos at Buckingham Palace 177,000 pounds ($318,000 US) in damages. ...More

Rubella outbreak despite availability of vaccine 'discouraging': Smitherman

TORONTO (CP) - Ontario's rubella outbreak has ballooned to at least 83 cases, and provincial Health Minister George Smitherman said Wednesday it's a "discouraging" reminder of the importance of vaccinating children against preventable diseases. ...More

Ontario's aging doctors working less, accepting fewer patients

TORONTO (CP) - Ontario's medical profession is getting older, working fewer hours and accepting fewer new patients, says a new survey released Wednesday by the body that governs the province's doctors. ...More

Aging Ontario's doctors working less, accepting fewer patients

TORONTO (CP) - Ontario's medical profession is getting older, working fewer hours and accepting fewer new patients, says a new survey released Wednesday by the body that governs the province's doctors. ...More

Malaria kills one million a year, says first UN global report on the disease

UNITED NATIONS (AP) - Malaria kills more than one million people and sickens between 350 million and 500 million people a year, mainly in Africa, according to a UN report launched Tuesday. ...More

Drug company stockholders reject Minnesota resolution on Canadian pharmacies

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Shareholders at three of the United States&apos; biggest drugmakers have voted down a Minnesota state-sponsored resolution urging them to keep supplies flowing to Canadian pharmacies that cater to American customers. <a href="http://www.medbroadcast.com/health_news_details.asp?news_id=6630&amp;rss=67" style="color:red; text-decoration:none; font-size:12px font-family:verdana;" target="_blank">...More</a>

Not enough, too much sleep linked to diabetes

TORONTO (MRI) - Constantly feel like you're coming up short on sleep? New research shows that getting too few zzz's on a regular basis can increase your risk of developing diabetes. But if you're proud of your ability to sleep for hours on end, we've got some bad news for you too: Too much sleep can also up your risk....More

UN says 300,000 Ethiopian children in danger of dying from malnutrition

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (AP) - As many as 300,000 Ethiopian children will die from malnutrition this year if donors do not come forward with food aid and funds, a UN official said Wednesday. ...More

Edmonton researcher hopes parents battle bias against ugly children

EDMONTON (CP) - A University of Alberta researcher has hit a chord with parents of attractive children with a study that suggests they&apos;re treated better than ugly kids. <a href="http://www.medbroadcast.com/health_news_details.asp?news_id=6621&amp;rss=67" style="color:red; text-decoration:none; font-size:12px font-family:verdana;" target="_blank">...More</a>

Researchers call for end to estimated one million unneeded episiotomies

CHICAGO (AP) - For years, some doctors believed that an episiotomy, an incision to enlarge the vaginal opening during childbirth, would prevent spontaneous tearing that would be harder to repair. ...More

Diet, exercise best for preventing metabolic syndrome

TORONTO (MRI) - Lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise are more effective than medication at preventing a condition that can be a precursor to diabetes, a recent study found....More

Survey examines celebrities' influence on cancer screening

WASHINGTON (AP) - Celebrities can send people to the doctor. ...More

UN says 300,000 Ethiopian children in danger of dying from malnutrition

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (AP) - As many as 300,000 Ethiopian children will die from malnutrition this year if donors do not come forward with food aid and funds, a UN official said Wednesday. ...More

Long-term survival evaluated after non-invasive prostate treatment

CHICAGO (AP) - Men with non-aggressive prostate cancer who were treated with hormones or took no action at all are unlikely to die of the disease even 20 years later, new research shows. ...More

Widow of asbestos victim at Buckingham Palace awarded damages

LONDON (AP) - A British court on Wednesday awarded the widow of a maintenance worker who died after exposure to asbestos at Buckingham Palace 177,000 pounds ($318,000 US) in damages. ...More

Not enough, too much sleep linked to diabetes

TORONTO (MRI) - Constantly feel like you're coming up short on sleep? New research shows that getting too few zzz's on a regular basis can increase your risk of developing diabetes. But if you're proud of your ability to sleep for hours on end, we've got some bad news for you too: Too much sleep can also up your risk....More

Indonesia confirms 2nd case of polio, confident it can avert major outbreak

JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) - Indonesia on Wednesday confirmed a second case of polio, but health authorities who were confronting the disease for the first time in a decade said they were confident of preventing a major outbreak. ...More

Ontario's aging doctors working less, accepting fewer patients

TORONTO (CP) - Ontario's medical profession is getting older, working fewer hours and accepting fewer new patients, says a new survey released Wednesday by the body that governs the province's doctors. ...More

Aging Ontario's doctors working less, accepting fewer patients

TORONTO (CP) - Ontario's medical profession is getting older, working fewer hours and accepting fewer new patients, says a new survey released Wednesday by the body that governs the province's doctors. ...More

Rubella outbreak despite availability of vaccine 'discouraging': Smitherman

TORONTO (CP) - Ontario's rubella outbreak has ballooned to at least 83 cases, and provincial Health Minister George Smitherman said Wednesday it's a "discouraging" reminder of the importance of vaccinating children against preventable diseases. ...More

Survey examines celebrities' influence on cancer screening

WASHINGTON (AP) - Celebrities can send people to the doctor. ...More

Drug company stockholders reject Minnesota resolution on Canadian pharmacies

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Shareholders at three of the United States&apos; biggest drugmakers have voted down a Minnesota state-sponsored resolution urging them to keep supplies flowing to Canadian pharmacies that cater to American customers. <a href="http://www.medbroadcast.com/health_news_details.asp?news_id=6630&amp;rss=67" style="color:red; text-decoration:none; font-size:12px font-family:verdana;" target="_blank">...More</a>

Researchers call for end to estimated one million unneeded episiotomies

CHICAGO (AP) - For years, some doctors believed that an episiotomy, an incision to enlarge the vaginal opening during childbirth, would prevent spontaneous tearing that would be harder to repair. ...More

Malaria kills one million a year, says first UN global report on the disease

UNITED NATIONS (AP) - Malaria kills more than one million people and sickens between 350 million and 500 million people a year, mainly in Africa, according to a UN report launched Tuesday. <a href="http://www.medbroadcast.com/health_news_details.asp?news_id=6622&amp;rss=67" style="color:red; text-decoration:none; font-size:12px font-family:verdana;" target="_blank">...More</a>

Edmonton researcher hopes parents battle bias against ugly children

EDMONTON (CP) - A University of Alberta researcher has hit a chord with parents of attractive children with a study that suggests they're treated better than ugly kids. ...More

Diet, exercise best for preventing metabolic syndrome

TORONTO (MRI) - Lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise are more effective than medication at preventing a condition that can be a precursor to diabetes, a recent study found....More

AstraZeneca says trial of stroke drug shows success in reducing disability

LONDON (AP) - AstraZeneca PLC said Wednesday its experimental drug designed to limit damage caused by strokes has proved effective by one measure in clinical trials. ...More

Long-term survival evaluated after non-invasive prostate treatment

CHICAGO (AP) - Men with non-aggressive prostate cancer who were treated with hormones or took no action at all are unlikely to die of the disease even 20 years later, new research shows....More

Malaria kills one million a year, says first UN global report on the disease

UNITED NATIONS (AP) - Malaria kills more than one million people and sickens between 350 million and 500 million people a year, mainly in Africa, according to a UN report launched Tuesday....More

Indonesia confirms 2nd case of polio, confident it can avert major outbreak

JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) - Indonesia on Wednesday confirmed a second case of polio, but health authorities who were confronting the disease for the first time in a decade said they were confident of preventing a major outbreak....More

Drug company stockholders reject Minnesota resolution on Canadian pharmacies

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Shareholders at three of the United States' biggest drugmakers have voted down a Minnesota state-sponsored resolution urging them to keep supplies flowing to Canadian pharmacies that cater to American customers....More

Edmonton researcher hopes parents battle bias against ugly children

EDMONTON (CP) - A University of Alberta researcher has hit a chord with parents of attractive children with a study that suggests they're treated better than ugly kids....More

Diet, exercise best for preventing metabolic syndrome

TORONTO (MRI) - Lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise are more effective than medication at preventing a condition that can be a precursor to diabetes, a recent study found....More

Alberta snubs Dosanjh's proposal to discuss private diagnostic clinics

OTTAWA (CP) - Alberta has snubbed Health Minister Ujjal Dosanjh's proposal for a special meeting to discuss private diagnostic clinics Dosanjh says violate the principles of medicare....More

AstraZeneca says trial of stroke drug shows success in reducing disability

LONDON (AP) - AstraZeneca PLC said Wednesday its experimental drug designed to limit damage caused by strokes has proved effective by one measure in clinical trials....More

Community at centre of rubella outbreak worried for pregnant women

TORONTO (CP) - The religious community at the centre of a large rubella outbreak in southwestern Ontario is worried about a number of pregnant women in their membership....More