Latest science news in Health & Medicine
Exposing the achilles' heel of the AIDS virus
Researchers have been studying HIV regions that could be used to design a vaccine. One scientist has focused her research on a specific region of the surface protein of the...
Yasir Arafat Poisoned? Testing Could Prove Tricky
It's still possible to find evidence of poisoning in the 8-year-old remains of Yasir Arafat.
Study of risks to humankind proposed
CAMBRIDGE, England, Nov. 26 (UPI) -- British researchers say they want to create a Center for the Study of Existential Risk to analyze the ultimate risks to the future...
Double amputee makes gain in fight for wheelchair
A woman who lost both of her legs below the knee is being assessed to see if she qualifies for a motorized wheelchair.
Patient's own immune cells may blunt viral therapy for brain cancer
Doctors now use cancer-killing viruses to treat some patients with lethal, fast-growing brain tumors. Clinical trials show that these therapeutic viruses are safe but less effective than expected. A new...
Alzheimer's disease in mice alleviated: Promising therapeutic approach for humans
Pathological changes typical of Alzheimer's disease were significantly reduced in mice by blockade of an immune system transmitter. The new therapeutic approach in fighting Alzheimer's disease promises potential both in...
Flu deaths reality check
Contrary to public health messaging, no one really knows how many people die after being infected by flu, CBC's Kelly Crowe reports.
Should I avoid taking antibiotics?
It is OK to take them, but only when really necessary, and for as long as directed. And never reuse antibiotics you have been prescribed previouslyIf you caught pneumonia in the pre-antibiotic era,...
Second coronavirus death reported
A second person has died from a new respiratory illness similar to the Sars virus, according to the World Health Organization.
Fewer women speak at science conferences
DAVIS, Calif., Nov. 24 (UPI) -- There is a disparity in women participating in science conferences, even in science fields dominated by female researchers, U.S. researchers say.
Wealth Matters: Dealing With Doctors Who Accept Only Cash
Many physicians who stop accepting insurance do so because of frustration with red tape. But concierge medicine isn’t for everyone.
Indian Prostitutes’ New Autonomy Imperils AIDS Fight
One result of the spread of cellphones in India is that more prostitutes have become independent of brothels, a development that has made AIDS prevention harder.
Bizarre Perpetual Sleepiness Explained
Brain chemicals keep hypersomniacs in a fog all day, but a new treatment may help.
New molecular culprit linked to breast cancer progression
Researchers have uncovered a protein “partner” commonly used by breast cancer cells to unlock genes needed for spreading the disease around the body. A report on the discovery details how...
The latest toothbrush that's not a toothbrush
The Emmi-dent uses ultrasonic impulses to do a search-and-destroy on bacteria.Emmi-dent. It's the toothbrush you're not supposed to brush your teeth with. But that's not to say you shouldn't use...
Pakistan shuts down cellphones to prevent attacks
Pakistan is suspending cellphone service in most parts of the country over the next two days to prevent attacks against Shia Muslims during a key religious commemoration, the country's interior...
Chilling Effect: Air-Conditioner Repairs Undermine Coolant Restrictions
The United States has pressed poor countries to pick up the pace in eliminating the harmful HCFC-22, but it still has 140 million central air units running on the gas.
Inquiry Sought in Death in Ireland After Abortion Was Denied
The death of an Indian-born woman has focused international attention on the Irish ban on abortion.
Be a zookeeper for a day, in Edinburgh
A day as a zookeeper at Edinburgh zoo brings vicious meerkats, a sad wallaby and some very picky penguinsIt's freezing. The first snap of winter is biting at Edinburgh's heels and I'm...
Cutting transport emissions – Seriously? Action speaks louder than words
California has the nation’s worst air. That fact should be an eye-opener. Furthermore, understanding this, it should prompt some serious [...]
Hamilton man dies of West Nile virus
Antonio Occhiuto, 82, died Thursday at Hamilton General hospital.
Cambrian research aims to help Alzheimer's patients
Four nursing students at Cambrian College in Sudbury are trying to prove a product developed in the city could be helpful for families dealing with Alzheimer's.
HIV testing for all
The recommendation by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force is a long-overdue step.Early treatment for HIV is more successful than later treatment. But that's not the only reason to praise...
Giving thanks for our healthcare system — which needs reform
Six nights of hospital care provides a firsthand look at the marvels of our healthcare system, and how much more efficient and accessible it should be.It's a day late, but...
Chemical "soup" clouds connection between toxins and poor health
Toxicologist Linda Birnbaum has tried to put sound science at the center of debates over chemical regulation.Nature News doi: 10.1038/nature.2012.11881
New test may improve cervical cancer detection
Routine smear tests have considerably reduced the number of cases of cervical cancer, but despite intensive screening women still die from the disease every year. Researchers have developed new methods...
Study shows the reality for 'vital' Christchurch quake responders
Front-line rescue workers in Christchurch put their own needs and those of their families to one side to play a vital role during the Christchurch earthquakes and aftershocks, early results...
AP PHOTOS: Simple surgery heals blind Indonesians
PADANG SIDEMPUAN, Indonesia (AP) -- They came from the remotest parts of Indonesia, taking crowded overnight ferries and riding for hours in cars or buses -...