In Brief: Disease-modifying drug fails in Alzheimer’s study
Another potential treatment for Alzheimer’s disease failed in a randomized trial to perform better than a placebo.
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In Brief: Mice provide new clues about obsessive-compulsive disorder
The study of a protein in mice led to an unintentional discovery about a possible influence on the development of obsessive-compulsive disorder.
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Do carbonated drinks weaken bones or worsen osteoporosis?
Research hints heavy soda consumption may weaken bones, especially in women. See what studies show, why the link is unclear, and steps you can take to protect bone health.
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Bipolar disorder in children
Bipolar disorder is often not recognized in children or is misdiagnosed as ADHD. Therapy along with a combination of medications can be effective, but there is often a lengthy dosage adjustment trial period, and there are numerous possible side effects.
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How can I reduce the risk of another small bowel obstruction?
Learn what can cause partial or full small bowel obstruction and which dietary choices during recovery can help.
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Helping teens stop smoking
Teens who smoke are more likely to quit if they can be convinced to participate in a cessation program that emphasizes the health risks of smoking, provides motivational encouragement and coping skills, and encourages a healthy overall lifestyle.
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Editor’s note
There was an error in the October 2009 article about premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
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Treating bulimia nervosa
The eating disorder bulimia nervosa is characterized by a period of binge eating followed by a compensating action. Recommended treatment combines psychotherapy with nutritional counseling.
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Bad Times Strain Good Health Habits
Stress from work and the poor economy are wrecking diet and exercise routines across the country, the Associated Press reported April 24. People who give up healthy habits say stress is the main reason. They may skip exercise or reach for sugar and “comfort” foods. But experts said that sticking to healthy routines could make people feel more in control.
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Extra Treatment Brings No Heart Benefit
A study has failed to show whether super-low blood pressure and cholesterol levels are good for health. The study included 499 American Indians. All had diabetes and therefore a high risk of heart disease. All were given medicine to lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Half aimed to reach levels recommended by current guidelines. The others were given more medicine to reach even lower levels. After three years, people who got more treatment had thinner artery walls in the neck than the other group. But rates of heart attacks and other events were similar in both groups. The study was published April 9 in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
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