HealthCheck Reports: June 2006

VACATION FOOD
07.04.06

Eating healthy while you're away from home. Lisa Jones: "Part of planning is planning what you're going to eat." Lisa Jones of the Pennsylvania Dietetic Association shared some simple tips to keep vacationers from bringing home "extra baggage"!

Let's say you're planning a summer road-trip: Jones: "If you're staying in a hotel, use the ice bucket, and you can bring stuff with you in a cooler, and transfer it into the hotel ice bucket." That will keep fresh vegetables like carrots and celery sticks or fruits like apples, peaches, or grapes, on hand.

Not only will that save you calories and fat, but also money from the cost of fast food or vending machines.

When you do dine out, Jones recommends entrees with baked, grilled, or roasted meats, not breaded or deep-fried.

For breakfast, choose cereals, whole-grain breads, fruit and yogurt.

And believe it or not, you can "have your dessert, and eat it too" - just make it sherbet, or some angel food cake.

Heart Health
06.25.06

It's not just what you eat, but what you do, that makes for a healthy heart. So say new guidelines from the American heart association.

Unlike the advice the AHA put out in 2000, which focused on healthy eating, the new recommendations ALSO stress getting more exercise, keeping weight under control, and avoiding tobacco.

The heart association says getting at least half an hour of exercise a day is the goal, even if it's done in parts.

As for diet, the AHA emphasizes cutting saturated fat, sugar, and salt at every meal. And keeping portions under control, instead of counting calories.

Baby Brain
06.25.06

Parents are often baffled by what their babies are thinking.

And according to new research, infants feel the same way about their parents and other adults.

A study of eye movements and attention spans finds babies under 6 months of age can't predict what a person is about to do because their brains just don't have the wiring yet.

So if mommy picks up a favorite toy, young infants can't guess that she's about to hand it over, even if it's happened dozens of times before.

By one year of age, however, babies have developed the knack for anticipation.

Healthy Cherries
06.25.06

Just in time for cherry picking season. New research gives more reason for putting them on your plate!

The government's agricultural researchers asked a group of healthy adults to eat about 45 fresh bing cherries a day.

Blood samples checked before and after the month-long study showed a drop of up to 25 percent for 3 inflammation markers signaling arthritis and heart disease.

So, enjoy that cherry pie this summer!

TYSABRI RETURNS
06.11.06

The Food and Drug Administration is allowing a controversial drug for multiple sclerosis back on the market.

The agency has given the green light to Tysabri, which is used to treat the relapsing forms of MS. Studies show the drug dramatically slows MS progression for some patients. However, Tysabri was withdrawn early last year after 3 patients developed a rare brain infection.

MS advocates lobbied the FDA to bring it back under tight restrictions, saying the benefits outweigh the risks. SAFE PLAY
06.11.06

And Philadelphia's kids need more safe places to play. That's why this week, the Philadelphia Eagles arrived with much fanfare at the Edward Heston School for a "playground build." Donovan McNabb/Quarterback: "This is one step toward something we are trying to reach, a safer environment for the kids." Dr. Matthew Moront, trauma director at St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, is a big believer in this mission. He says colorful murals and kid-friendly attractions like this rock climbing wall bring youngsters in and away from danger. Dr. Matthew Moront/St. Christopher's Hosp. for Children: "If they have safe places to play, they won't be playing in the street, where they are more likely to be hit by cars. So I really think it helps a lot." Dr. Moront says today's playgrounds should all have impact-absorbing material, to protect a child from injury during a fall. The renovated Heston playground will have an 8-inch thick protective surface when its finished.

HIGH CALCIUM
06.10.06

Q: My latest blood tests showed I have a high calcium level. Could it be the supplements I take for my bones?

A: Calcium supplements don't usually lead to elevated calcium levels in the blood. I would, however, stop the calcium tablets and repeat the test. If levels stay high, then there could be other causes. The most common one is an overactive parathyroid gland - that occurs in 1 of every 500 women over the age of 60.

High calcium levels can also occur with: Overactive thyroid - that's a different organ. Certain medications, such as lithium and diuretics. Kidney failure Or some cancers, such as breast and lung cancer.

While slightly raised levels may not cause symptoms, very high levels may lead to nausea, extreme thirst, abdominal pain, and weakness. The treatment depends on the underlying reason.

DEMENTIA SIGNS
06.10.06

Q: Lately, my 80-year-old father's personality has changed. He's more agitated and restless. What could it mean?

A: I'm concerned about early signs of dementia. Alzheimer's Disease and strokes cause dementia in about half of all people over the age of 80. Personality changes are a common first sign, but also be on the lookout for: Recent memory loss Problems with language, such as trouble remembering simple words. Difficulty with familiar tasks, like cooking a meal. Disorientation to time and place. Or misplacing objects.

If his changes don't go away, I'd have him see his doctor.

DRUG CRACKDOWN
06.09.06

The FDA is cracking down on a potentially deadly practice. It is counterfeiting - making drugs that look like the name brands, but aren't.

The FDA has pursued 100 cases. Now it wants detailed tracking of medication every time it changes hands, from the factory to the pharmacy. The agency says the most widely counterfeited drugs include Viagra, Tamiflu and Procrit.

LIPITOR LAWSUIT
06.09.06

Two men have filed suit in New York, saying they were permanently injured by the world's most prescribed drug, Lipitor.

Charles Wilson, a former insurance agent, and Michael Mazzariello, an attorney, say they weren't adequately warned about the potential side effects of the cholesterol-lowering drug

The two men say they experienced debilitating muscle and joint pain, weakness, and memory problems a few weeks after starting the drug. Both have since stopped taking it.

Pfizer, the maker of Lipitor, says the suits are baseless, and that all the medication's risks are clearly spelled out.

SOCCER SHOCK
06.09.06

And just as World Cup soccer gets started Friday. There are alarming reports out of Britain about infections linked to soccer shoes.

Case studies published in the British Medical Journal describe 2 children who developed toxic shock syndrome after getting blisters on their heels from new soccer cleats.

It seems the blisters allowed staphylococcus bacteria to enter their bodies; some strains of staph release toxins, and that can trigger toxic shock syndrome.

Both kids survived after long courses of antibiotics, but toxic shock can be deadly.

"This is a rare occurrence, but still scary. Prompt medical attention to any festering blister or wound is a must."

TEEN CAFFEINE
05.08.06

The popularity of coffee in this country is prompting younger and younger Americans to become java drinkers. But experts say that may not be such a good thing.

Sisters Alexis and Mantha Petrovich enjoy a little "coffee talk" with their friends. Most of the time, the coffee's a boost, to help them get through their schoolwork. Mantha Petrovich/Upper Macungie, Pa.: "I drink it from the afternoon or nighttime. And it's usually when I have tests, or a lot of homework and I need to stay up late." Alexis Petrovich/Upper Macungie, Pa.: "I only drink about a glass a day, usually before I go to school. Um, kind of helps me get psyched up for the day, and to make it through the whole day with the coffee." Their moderation is a good thing. Most experts recommend no more than 100 milligrams of caffeine a day for teens. Beth Underkoffler, R.D./Lehigh Valley Hospital: "You may get 50 to a 100 milligrams of coffee, depending on the size, you know, varied of course between small, medium, and large." Add in the 2 sodas the average teenager drinks in a day, and maybe an energy drink like Red Bull, and the caffeine mounts quickly. It's a powerful stimulant, and dependence can grow. Experts say one serving often gives way to two - because you need more caffeine to deliver the boost you've become accustomed to. Underkoffler: "You know different studies show that they may, you know by adulthood if they're very in the habit of getting coffee every morning, they may be drinking upwards of 3 cups or more per day, relying on caffeine to get them through the day." The caffeine blast isn't all - kids have to be cautious about the calories. Underkoffler: "If it's made with cream, it may pack up to 300 calories or more." Dietitians say high amounts of caffeine may cause loss of calcium - a nutrient young people already don't get enough of for strong bones.

So, parents, be aware of what your teens are drinking.

CERVICAL CANCER VAX
06.08.06

It's been more than 15 years in the making for Merck in West Point, Montgomery County. And Thursday, the Food and Drug Administration gave the final OK to the company's vaccine, the first to protect against cervical cancer.

In fact, Gardasil is the first vaccine to block any cancer. It protects against the 2 types of human papillomavirus, HPV, responsible for about 70 percent of cervical cancer cases.

About 15 thousand women are diagnosed with cervical cancer every year, and about 4-thousand die from it.

Dr. Rick Haupt, the medical director of the project, predicts Gardasil will save many lives. Dr. Rick Haupt/Merck Co. Project Director: "This a major global health problem affecting millions of lives, something hopefully, our vaccine will have a dramatic impact on." HPV is a sexually transmitted virus, so Gardasil has to be given before a woman becomes sexually active. Some conservatives believe vaccinating young girls might encourage them to have sex before marriage.

The CDC's committee on vaccine practices meets June 29 to make its recommendations on who should get the vaccine, and when. Gardasil should be available by late summer.

HIGH SCHOOLERS
06.08.06

And a new survey shows American teenagers are living safer, healthier lives these days. According to the centers for disease control, the percentage who say they use alcohol has dropped dramatically. Also, the number who have had sex has also declined, while more of the sexually active students are using condoms. And they are taking another important safety measure to heart - wearing seat belts.
SCHOOL SPORTS
06.07.06

These days, students at the Bache Martin School in Fairmount are always on the run, chasing Jackie Chan.

The exercise video game, created by the action film star and a national fitness organization, test youngsters' speed, endurance, and reflexes. And they can't get enough of it!

"There's always a line to get on the systems," said Jeff Brown of the Bache Martin School. "We know that some of them have already asked about using them at home."

A decade ago, schools were cutting back on physical education and sports, amid pressure to focus on the basics.

As children's weight went up, calls to restore and even beef up programs went out.

Philadelphia City Council held hearings last week to gather information on potential solutions.

The Philadelphia School District has already expanded its fitness and activity offerings.

One partnership, with the Ed Snider Youth Hockey Foundation, gives elementary level students the chance to learn the basics of ice skating, and hockey.

For many, it's their first time ever on skates, but many like the ice so much they move into a weekend program.

Jim Britt of the foundation said, "My challenge is to stay in front of their enthusiasm."

District officials hope every student will get involved in some activity because the goal is lifelong fitness.

CAR SEAT SAFETY
06.05.06

We know seat belts save lives, but new evidence shows they not may be what's best for children.

Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia say kids ages 2 to 8 are much safer in a car seat or booster seat, rather than a seat belt alone.

The CHOP study found that using the seats could reduce the risk of death in a crash by almost 30 percent.

Even an improperly installed car seat was still better than just a seat belt - which is not designed for children's bodies.

AIDS 25TH
06.05.06

It was 25 years ago Monday, that the Centers for Disease Control published the first report on what would come to be known as AIDS.

Doctors wrote about 5 gay men in Los Angeles who had a rare type of pneumonia. In the first years of the epidemic, AIDS was 100 percent fatal.

Since 1981, it has killed tens of millions of people around the world. But Monday, thanks to 22 powerful drugs, millions of HIV-positive people are still alive.

Still, the battle to slow AIDS isn't over.

For every new person who receives drug therapy, another 8 people become infected. And because the virus keeps changing, a vaccine is still a long way off.

DOC NAPS
06.05.06

There may be a surprisingly low-tech way to cut down hospital errors - catnaps for young doctors.

According to a yearlong study, interns on a schedule allowing naps, even modest ones, had dramatically less fatigue. The doctors felt they were more attentive, and better at decision-making.

Interns and residents work grueling schedules. In recent years, new rules limit them to 80 hours a week, but they can still do shifts of 30 hours straight.

The study was done at the University of Chicago.

3 ARM BABY Tomorrow, doctors in Shanghai, China plan to operate to remove the well-developed third arm of a 2-month-old boy.

They have decided that the arm closer to his chest will be removed, because it doesn't work as well as the other.

The surgery, which could last 3 to 5 hours, will be difficult because of the risk to damage to the nerves and blood vessels in the good arm.

Even with x-rays, doctors are having a hard time determining where the nerves cross.

SUMMER READY
06.04.06

Hopefully, you were already slathering on the sunscreen this past Memorial Day weekend. But how high of a sun protection factor or SPF do you really need, and is it worth spending more at the drug store?

Pam Dent/Mother: "I use 25 or 30 on my children. And I don't allow them to apply it. I apply it." That's smart, says Allentown dermatologist Robert Thompson. But adults need the same daily protection. Dr. Robert Thompson/Advanced Dermatology Assoc.: "On the sunscreen list, I think the basics include first of all, getting into the routine of doing it, making it part of your habit, washing your face, brushing your teeth, putting sunscreen on. I think its ideal to get people to use a 15 or higher sunscreen." And, according to Dr. Thompson, budget brands are just as effective as expensive ones. They just may not feel as creamy or smell as good when you put them on.

There's another kind of sizzle that's a staple of summer - burgers on the grill.

The US department of Agriculture wants families to avoid getting burned by food-borne illness, caused by dangerous bacteria like campylobacter, E-coli, and salmonella. Dr. Richard Raymond/USDA: "It only takes one drop of juice from a poultry breast to cause salmonella in a human being." So keep meat cold until just before it hits the grill.

And wash surfaces and utensils used to cut raw meat with hot, soapy water. Then, grill it through and through. Use a meat thermometer to make sure ground beef reaches 160 degrees inside, and poultry, 165.

Then put leftovers away, right away, so germs can't multiply in the heat.

COPD STUDY
06.04.06

For most people, a palm pilot comes in handy for keeping track of schedules and phone numbers. But for Edward Goldwire, the electronic device is his key to avoiding one medical crisis after another.

Goldwire suffers from COPD, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, the 4th leading killer in America. For COPD patients, flare-ups are like heart attacks are to heart patients. Edward Goldwire/Olney: "It seemed like every other month, I was getting a reaction from it, passing out, and coming in here." Goldwire is helping Temple University Hospital determine whether palm pilots help patients get better control of COPD.

Every day, Goldwire answers basic questions about his condition, and sends the stats to a monitoring unit at the Temple Lung Center. There, nurses can tell whether he's doing well - or headed for an impending attack that could put him in the hospital. In the year since he joined this program, Goldwire's life has changed. Goldwire: "This is a lifesaver here. And I'm glad they introduced me to it& When I got this here, it stopped the hospital visits." Study leaders say the patients - many of them older - are handling the new technology very well. Dr. Criner: "It's a lesson in - don't discount what a patient wants to do& The more empowerment and involvement you have of a patient in the disease, the better you can expect the outcome to be."

SHINGLES VACCINE
06.04.06

Most vaccines are for younger children, but the Food and Drug Administration has now approved one for older Americans.

The agency gave the green light to Zostavax, the first vaccine to prevent shingles. The painful disease, often marked by a blistering rash, surfaces when the virus that causes chickenpox re-activates. It hits a million people every year.

Zostavax will be given as a single injection, to those 60 years of age, or older.

GROWING PAINS
06.03.06

Q: My 8-year-old son's knees have hurt him for the last few weeks. Could this be growing pains?

A: It just might be. Growing pains affect kids during 2 periods - from ages 3 to 5, and later on, between the ages of 8 and 12. The pains come from muscles in 3 places: the front of the thighs, the back of the calves, and the knees. They are most pronounced at the end of a very active day, possibly due to the running and jumping. But it's not uncommon for the pains to be gone the next morning, after a good night of rest.

You can help relieve your child's pain by massaging the area, stretching, applying a heating pad, or pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. But if the pain persists, or there's fever, or swelling or redness around the joints - call your doctor.

LACTOSE INTOLERANCE
06.03.06

Q: I was just diagnosed with lactose intolerance. What foods do I need to watch out for?

A: Lactose intolerance occurs when the lactose sugar can't be digested. Dairy products, such as milk, cheese and ice cream, contain the only natural source of lactose. However, it is added to many other foods such as instant potatoes, soups, breakfast drinks, margarine, salad dressings, pancake and cookie mixes, processed cereals, even lunch meats, and bread.

So read the labels carefully, looking for clues like "whey, curds, milk by-products, or non-fat milk power.

In addition, about 20 percent of all prescription drugs also contain lactose.

OBESITY RESTAURANTS
06.02.06

The Food and Drug Administration is concerned about what you eat in restaurants.

With Americans now eating a third of their food out, the FDA has a plan for restaurants to fight fat.

The report calls for smaller portions, more fruits and vegetables on the menu, and better nutritional information.

The average American now eats 300 more calories a day than 15 years ago.

And burgers, fries, and pizza are the top 3 foods for eating out.

YOUNG ARTHRITIS
6.1.06

A painful disease once associated with advancing age is becoming more common in younger adults. The painful joints of osteo-arthritis were once thought of as a problem that mostly plagues the elderly. But doctors are now seeing it in younger patients like Roberta Hagen. Since her late 30's, she's dealt with swelling, stiffness, and pain. "It's a dull constant aching pain, it never goes away." The skyrocketing rate of obesity is one reason arthritis in the young is on the rise. Doctors say obese people have 4 times the rate of knee pain compared to normal weight individuals. Dealing with the joint damage often takes a holistic approach. Dr. Lee Ann Rhodes/Washington Hosp. Ctr.: "There's exercise, weight loss, where applicable medication management... To all the alternative therapies as well... Acupuncture meditation." But even those who are physically fit experience wear and tear on their joints as they age. Doctors say weekend athletes in their 40's can suffer from osteo-arthritis if they don't take time to warm up and then push themselves too hard.

TOMOTHERAPY
6.1.06

Radiation has been a staple of cancer treatment for half a century. In recent years, doctors have tried to tailor the treatment to kill cancer, with less harm to the patient. The latest variation, called TomoTherapy, has now come to the Delaware Valley.

When Reverend Philip Olson learned he had prostate cancer, he had major misgivings about surgery, that it might mean too much time away from his congregation in Lambertville, New Jersey. Standard radiation could have serious side effects. So Olson chose a new form of radiation treatment called TomoTherapy, being offered at the Cancer Treatment Centers of America facility which recently came to Philadelphia.

TomoTherapy marries radiation treatment with a CT scanner, all in one machine. A patient's cancer is thoroughly mapped in 3 dimensions. In Reverend Olson's case, doctors wanted to not only treat his prostate gland, but lymph nodes in the abdomen, where there might be a few malignant cells. However, they didn't want radiation to damage his intestines or bones. Dr. Lydia Komarnicky/Cancer Treatment Ctr.: "We don't necessarily want the hips to get any treatment, so we have to draw that out." Those areas receive minimal radiation, while the target areas get a big dose. It's all shaped to his specific cancer. Dr. Komarnicky: "You're actually changing the intensity of the beam as you go around for the treatment." Dr. Komarnicky. "With TomoTherapy, you can treat in a 360-degree spiral, with 50 beams, if you need to treat." TomoTherapy can also be used for patients who have maxed out on their dose of traditional radiation. Reverend Olson says the side effects are manageable - a little nausea and diarrhea, as well some fatigue. And he was able to stay connected to his "flock" during treatment. Rev. Philip Olson/Lambertville, New Jersey: "The TomoTherapy hasn't affected my abilities to carry on my duties as pastor." Reverend Olson recently finished his treatment, and is doing well. In addition to the Cancer Treatment Center of America, the Regional Cancer Center in Easton, PA, expects to offer TomoTherapy in about a month.