In the journals: Many scans for back pain may be unnecessary
Many MRI scans ordered for people with lower back pain are not medically necessary.
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Screening savvy: You’re likely at low risk for abdominal aortic aneurysm
A bulging abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) can be deadly, but only certain men should be checked for one with ultrasound. Men age 65 to 75 who have ever smoked are at high enough risk to make the test worth having.
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In the journals: How sweet it’s not: Sugary drinks take a toll on health
Sweetened sodas, sports drinks, and fruit drinks may be the cause of 25,000 deaths per year in the United States.
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Heart beat: Mental decline from arrhythmia
Atrial fibrillation, a common heart -rhythm disorder, may increase the risk of memory loss, a decline in thinking skills, or dementia.
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How to prepare for a safe vacation
Before going on vacation, people with heart disease should make sure it’s safe to fly and pack pertinent medical information and more than enough medications. Buying air ambulance or repatriation insurance before leaving home may also be wise.
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On call: Is mercury in fish dangerous?
To reduce concerns about mercury in fish, limit consumption of higher-mercury fish to two times a week, but eat lower-mercury species more freely.
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Research We’re Watching: Aspirin may lower melanoma risk
Aspirin may lower women’s risk for melanoma. The longer women take aspirin, the lower their risk appears to be. However, because aspirin can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, women need to use it with caution.
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Research We’re Watching: Radiation for breast cancer linked to heart problems
Women who receive radiation therapy for breast cancer are at greater risk for heart disease, especially if they have that therapy to the left breast, which is closest to the heart.
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In the journals: Testing for the ‘ulcer bug’ makes daily aspirin safer
Being tested for the bacteria that cause many ulcers and having the infection quashed with antibiotics can prevent ulcers in many people who take daily aspirin for heart protection.
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Natural ways to relieve constipation
Dietary changes, medications, and a lack of exercise often contribute to constipation in older women. Getting plenty of fiber and drinking four to six glasses of fluid each day are the best ways to prevent-and treat-constipation.
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