Month: September 2013

Drug-resistant bacteria cause at least 23,000 deaths in the United States each year. They infect more than 2 million people every year. And a focused campaign is needed to keep antibiotic resistance from wiping out our ability to cure infectious disease, U.S. health officials say. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) launched that campaign with a report and news conference. Officials listed 3 types of bacteria as an “urgent” threat and others as less urgent but still worrisome. The report outlines how antibiotic resistance has increased the risks of dialysis, cancer treatment and surgery. Excess use of antibiotics is the main cause. Up to half of the antibiotics prescribed in the United States are not necessary, the report said. It also called for an end to the use of antibiotics to promote growth of livestock.

Teens have improved some of their health habits, and excess weight has leveled off, the latest national survey suggests. The study was based on national surveys of kids in grades 6 through 10. The survey is conducted every 4 years. The first of 3 surveys began in 2001. The last one ended in 2010. In all, 34,000 teens were involved. They were asked their weight, height and questions about diet, exercise and screen time. Between the second and third surveys, the obesity rate leveled off and the rate of overweight teens dropped a bit. Teens reported eating more fruits and vegetables and fewer sweets. They also reported having fewer sweetened drinks. They ate breakfast on weekdays more often. They were more active and spent less time watching TV. However, video game and computer use went up a bit. The improvements were small. And researchers said there’s a long way to go.