The shingles vaccine: Why hasn’t it caught on?
The shingles vaccine Zostavax has not turned out to be as popular as was expected, due in part to its high cost and questions about its effectiveness.
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Month: April 2010
By the way, doctor: Is it okay to switch from Avodart to finasteride for BPH?
I have been taking Avodart for my BPH, along with Flomax, but finasteride may be less expensive. Should I switch?
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When quitters are winners
Many people do not realize that smoking is as bad for cardiovascular health as it is for the lungs. Quitting has some almost-immediate benefits, and after 20 years quitters have the same risk of death as nonsmokers.
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His and hers heart disease
It is now understood that heart disease affects men and women differently, so doctors should consider these gender differences in diagnosis and treatment.
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Tests for breast cancer
Digital mammography is poised to replace the standard version, but studies show them to be about equal in effectiveness at detecting cancers, depending on age and breast density. Ultrasound and MRI are also useful tools for detection in some women.
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In brief
Brief reports on giving proper attention to high triglycerides, undermining cardiovascular drug therapy with unhealthy lifestyle choices, and an apparent bonus from taking a statin: reduced risk of blood clots.
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Topical drug treatments for age spots
Physical removal of age spots can be costly and painful. Topical treatments take time to work, but are generally safe, cost less than removal procedures, and are easier on the skin.
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In Brief: Smokers: The formers versus the nevers
People who quit smoking can expect their risk of related illness to decrease to about the same level as that of people who have never smoked, although it can take several years for this to happen.
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Betting on beta blockers
Beta blockers are used to treat a variety of conditions, but some studies have questioned their effectiveness. Those already taking a bta blocker for high blood pressure do not necessarily need to switch to a different medication.
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Heart Beat: Peripheral artery disease and stroke
People who have had a transient ischemic attack or a stroke should consider getting an ankle-brachial index test to check for peripheral artery disease.
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