It's in the best interests of your teen's safety to ensure strict limits on driving. And parents who receive and read specific information on teen driving safety are much more likely to enforce stricter rules. Some important points include restrictions on night driving, and getting plenty of driving experience before driving alone. Learn more in this week's article.

•	Strict Driving Rules from Parents May Prevent Reckless Teen Driving

Did you realize that at age 2 only 9 percent of American children have received their recommended vaccinations? Vaccinations are recommended for young children at specific ages based on their vulnerability to disease and ability to tolerate the immunization. Learn more about vaccinations in this week’s article.

•	Most Toddlers Don’t Get Their Immunizations on Time

A new synthetic compound called estren has been found in studies to increase bone density in mice. Because it doesn't cause the side effects of hormone replacement therapy, it may become an effective new treatment to help prevent osteoporosis.

•	Possible Future Treatment for Osteoporosis Preserves Bone Mass in Mice

 

A new report from the National High Blood Pressure Education Program (NHBPEP) offers nutritional guidelines to help maintain a healthy blood pressure. Learn about the new guidelines, and how high blood pressure it affects your health in this week's Health News Feature.

•	The Power of the Right Foods: New Recommendations for Lowering High Blood Pressure

Did you know that a protein pattern called prostate-specific antigen, which helps to predict prostate cancer, can now be identified in a new blood test with much higher accuracy? This will help to determine whether or not a biopsy is necessary for you. Screening for prostate cancer is important, and this test could make it simpler to predict. Learn more about prostate cancer in this week's Health News Feature.

•	New Screening Test Could Help Diagnose Prostate Cancer, Reduce Unnecessary Biopsies

According to new research, arthritis symptoms are prevalent in smokers and people who are separated or divorced. Learn what you can do to prevent arthritis whether these circumstances apply to your life or not, in this week's Health News Feature.

•	Smoking and Divorce Boost Arthritis Symptoms

 

Did you know that as many as 2 million U.S. children have been diagnosed with ADHD? New research shows that children with this condition have less brain tissue to begin with than children without it. Learn more about ADHD, research and treatment in this feature article.

•	ADHD Research: Difference in Children’s Brain Structure Is Not Caused by Medication

There is some controversy regarding whether or not Breast Self Exams (BSEs) aid in detecting breast cancer. However, most medical professionals think that regular BSEs are useful, and they are still a part of the American Cancer Society guidelines. Learn more about BSE's in this article.

•	Cancer Detection: Do Breast Self-Exams Make a Difference?

 

Halloween is one of the most popular holidays for kids, but with all the excitement, they can forget to be careful. By following simple guidelines and establishing some ground rules, you can make sure that your children enjoy Halloween safely.

•	Tips for Parents and Kids: Have a Safe Yet Spooky Halloween

 

Older Americans are learning that resistance exercise can improve strength and endurance. Find out why the it was once believed that lifting weights was too strenuous for older people and how that's changing.

•	Get Physical: Even a Little Exercise Can Go a Long Way for Older Adults

 

The EPA believes that even short-term exposure diesel engine fumes, those found primarily in large trucks, can lead to long-term lung irritation and inflammation.

•	Polluted Air: Exposure to Diesel Exhaust Fumes Could Lead to Lung Cancer

 

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for over half a million American women each year. Preventing heart disease may be easier than you think. Learn about the risks and prevention methods of heart disease in this Health News Feature.

•	You Don’t Need to Run Marathons to Be Fit: A Healthy Heart Is Just a Walk Away

Many Americans may be suffering from undiagnosed breathing difficulties. Up to 24 million people have symptoms that could be considered chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, a leading cause of death to Americans.

•	Breathing Pains: Major Respiratory Problem Often Undiagnosed

 

The power of Aspirin continues to astonish researchers of this remarkable drug. Learn how the regular use of aspirin may lower your risk for developing pancreatic cancer by as much as 43 percent.

•	Two Aspirin a Day Could Keep Pancreatic Cancer Away

 

A recent study found that as many as 75% of asthma sufferers did not use medication to control their condition. Learn more about asthma and how an anti-inflammatory medicine may help you or a loved one.

•	Study: Many Asthmatics Skip Anti-Inflammatory Medication

 

This mosquito-borne virus has become a national concern. Nearly every day, more deaths from West Nile Virus are reported from around the United States. But don't panic - you can learn what symptoms to watch for, and precautions to take for reducing your risk of exposure to the virus, and more, in this week's Health News Feature.

•	How to Protect You and Your Family From the West Nile Virus

 

Did you know that that people with poor “health literacy”- the ability to read, understand, and act on health information - are more likely to have serious health problems than those with good health literacy? Learn more about the importance of health literacy, and how to become health literate in this week's Health News Feature.

•	Families and Doctors: People Who Can Read and Understand Health Information Are Healthier

 

Did you know that close to 3 million kids between ages 12 and 17 considered suicide in 2000? The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) recently released a survey which includes these figures and other information about teen suicide. For prevention, warning signs and more, read this week's Health News Feature.

•	Unsettling Numbers: 3 Million American Teens Considered Suicide in 2000

 

Did you know that an estimated 143,000 American adults will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2002? The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force's new guidelines urge that all adults over 50 get screened for this type of cancer. Learn more about who's at risk, symptoms and prevention in this week's Health News Feature.

•	New Guidelines Released for Colorectal Cancer Screening

 

The recent study regarding Hormone Replacement Therapy has shown that the risks of long-term estrogen plus progestin outweigh the benefits. According to these results, estrogen with progestin increases the risk of both cardiovascular disease and breast cancer. Read more about the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute's recommendations for HRT in this week's Health News Feature.

•	Making Sense of the Recent News About Hormone Replacement Therapy

Did you know that almost 190,000 children were treated in hospital emergency rooms last year from injuries they sustained on public playground equipment? Learn about the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's recommendations for safer playgrounds, and how you can help to prevent injuries at the playground in this week's Health News Feature.

•	Survey Reveals Playground Hazards: Keeping Your Kids Safe

 

Did you know that, in a recent study, adults 75 and older who regularly socialized, participated in hobbies, or exercised their minds cut their risk of dementia by more than 40 percent? Learn ways to reduce your risk and enhance your mental health in later years in this week's Health News Feature.

•	Study: Keeping an Active Mind May Help You Ward Off Dementia as You Age

 

Did you know that in a recent study, of the 435 breast cancer patients studied, 5 percent were reassured that their lump was not cancerous without taking a biopsy. The women were later diagnosed with breast cancer. Find out more about the importance of biopsies and how to get an accurate diagnosis in this week's feature story.

•	Ensure That You Get an Accurate Diagnosis, Even After Your Mammogram

 

Did you know that 10 million Americans-80 percent women-currently have the bone-thinning disease osteoporosis? However, it is often silent and undetected until a fracture occurs. Learn the signs of osteoporosis and how to protect yourself or a loved one from this disease.

•	Do You Have Osteoporosis? New Research Shows that Many Have the Disease and Do Not Know It

 

Better behavioral patterns, positive parenting techniques, and improved cognitive and language development: these are some of the benefits of the Early Head Start program. Learn more about Early Head Start and how it benefits the whole family in this week's feature story!

•	Early Head Start Program Helps the Whole Family

 

Are you aware of the fact that most fireworks-related injuries occur using such legal fireworks as firecrackers, rockets, and sparklers? The hidden dangers in these common fireworks are not well known. Stay safe this Fourth of July by following these guidelines for safe use (or non-use) of fireworks.

•	Ooh! Aah! Enjoy Fireworks Safely This Independence Day

 

Did you know that Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, caused by a woman's consumption of alcohol during pregnancy, is the leading cause of mental retardation and birth defects in the United States? Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is a lifelong condition that often results in mental retardation, learning disabilities, serious behavioral problems, and facial malformations, affecting as many 12,000 children each year. Learn more about FAS in this article.

•	Alcohol and Pregnancy: Study Shows Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Continues to Be a Major Public Health Problem

Did you know that scientists have mapped 96 percent of the mouse genome and made it available to researchers around the world on the Internet? Mice have virtually the same set of genes as humans; with the mouse genome almost completely mapped, researchers have gained an opportunity to learn about the function of many genes shared by mice and humans. Learn more about mouse genome research here.

•	Mice or Men? Newly Sequenced Mouse Genome Holds Promise for Human Disease Research

 

If you don't know the symptoms of a stroke, it's important to learn. With early detection and treatment, complete recovery is possible. In this article, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders (NINDS) provides a list of warning signs, and an overview to help you understand stroke.

•	Do You Know the Signs of a Stroke? If You Do, You Could Save a Life

 

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the leading killer and disabler of children. Children are at risk for TBI when they ride bicycles, especially when they don't wear helmets. Learn what you can do to encourage your child to wear a helmet and practice bike riding safety.

•	Do You Wear a Bicycle Helmet? A New Study Shows Why Most Kids Answer "No"

 

With the hot summer months quickly approaching, May is a good time to become reacquainted with the dangers of sun exposure. And during this year's Skin Cancer Awareness Month, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) is reminding Americans to "shun the sun."

•	May Is Skin Cancer Awareness Month: Learn How to Protect Yourself and Your Family from the Sun's Dangerous UV Rays

 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided another incentive for giving up cigarettes: smoking costs about $157 billion each year in health costs and lost productivity in the United States, according to a recent report published in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

•	CDC Finds Cost of Smoking in Life and Money Twice the Original Estimate

Those suffering from Alzheimer's disease (AD) can no longer be automatically denied Medicare reimbursement for physical and mental therapy treatments, according to a recent policy. In this article, you'll get the details from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, including coverage details. You can also learn more about Alzheimer's and current research providing new hope.

•	Welcome News For Alzheimer's Patients and Their Families: Medicare Will No Longer Automatically Deny Coverage for Physical and Mental Treatment

 

Did you know that 43 million Americans are affected by arthritis? It is the leading cause of disability. Join the Arthritis Foundation and others in a walk between May 3 and 5 to raise funds for ongoing research into arthritis treatments and increase public awareness of this debilitating disease. Learn more facts and find out where to participate in this article.

•	May Is National Arthritis Month: New Advances, New Reasons to Join the National Arthritis Walk, May 3-5

 

Americans still have misconceptions about people living with AIDS. Included in these misconceptions are the idea that AIDS can be spread through coughing or sharing a glass of water with an infected person. Read some findings reported in the March 2002 issue of the American Journal of Public Health, to better comprehend the public's opinion about those living with AIDS, and the statistics from the CDC that clarify the facts about AIDS today

•	Study Shows Decreasing, but Lingering Stigma for Those Living with AIDS

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New vision screening technology, recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) can detect some of the most common pediatric eye conditions. The test, called photoscreening, uses a specially equipped camera or video system to obtain images of children's eye reflexes.

Unlike traditional vision screening, which requires the child's cooperation, photoscreening requires only that children fix their eyes on a target long enough for the screening to take place, making screening easier for technicians, parents and children.

•	New Technology Offers Easier Vision Screening for Children

 

Most men lack essential sexual health knowledge, according to a new report by the Alan Guttmacher Institute (AGI), a non-profit organization focused on sexual and reproductive health research, policy analysis, and public education. Men also have limited access to important services that could prevent sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and unwanted pregnancies. Learn more from the first comprehensive analysis of research on the sexual and reproductive health needs of American men.

•	New Study Finds Gaps in Men's Sexual Health Awareness; Limited Access to Resources

April is designated Alcohol Awareness Month by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD). Nearly 14 million people - about 1 in every 13 adults - are problem drinkers, despite ongoing efforts by healthcare professionals to promote responsible use of alcohol.

•	Alcohol Awareness Month Message: Abuse Is Still a Major Concern

There is no evidence to link autism in young children to routine vaccination for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), according to a recent study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ). Health officials are eager to spread this message; they have been concerned that fears raised about the vaccine might stop parents from getting the important preventive measure for their children.

•	Research Quiets Public Fears: No Link Between MMR Vaccine and Autism

 

According to health experts, about one of five American children is obese. Encouraging your infant or toddler to take part in physical activities listed by the new fitness guidelines can help to establish a pattern of physical activity in their life, reducing the chances of their becoming overweight. Learn learn more about the new guidelines and how you can help your infant or toddler to stay active and fit.

•	New Fitness Guidelines for Infants and Toddlers Designed to Battle Obesity

Did you know that by reading this you are helping "workout" your brain? Researchers now believe that increased cognitive activity may reduce the risk of contracting Alzheimer's disease. Read the entire article to learn more about the study supporting this new belief.

•	Study Findings: Reduce Alzheimer's Risk by Using Your Brain

Did you know something as simple as regular colorectal cancer screening could save up to 30,000 lives each year? Screening may reveal the pre-cancerous polyps that cause most of the cases of colorectal cancer, however, less than one third of those Americans who are at risk for colorectal cancer have been tested for the disease.

•	Message of National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month: Regular Screening Can Prevent Colorectal Cancer or Detect It Early

Researchers surveyed 32,000 people to compare outpatient depression treatment and medication use. In 1987, about 7 people in 1,000 got outpatient treatment for depression, compared to 23 per 1,000 in 1997. Experts suggest that the reason for this three-fold increase may be a decline in the social stigma associated with depression, and the rise in use of prescription antidepressants.

•	Treatment for Depression More Than Triples in 10 Years

Do you have the latest information to assist you in identifying growth problems in your child? The most recent growth chart created by the CDC hopes to identify children and adolescents with potential weight problems. These revised charts may be just the tools you need to assess your child's weight situation.

•	First New Growth Charts for American Kids in 20 Years May Help Combat Epidemic of Childhood Obesity

Researchers have shown that mice lacking a particular gene are dramatically less sensitive to pain. This discovery could lead to an entirely new approach to pain management-great news for the more than 50 million Americans who suffer from chronic pain each year, as well as the 25 million who suffer pain from surgery or injury.

•	Discovery of Pain-relief Gene May Lead to Future Treatments

About 1.1 million Americans suffer a heart attack each year, and about 460,000 die from the attack. Half of these deaths occur within 1 hour of the start of heart attack symptoms-before the victim reaches the hospital-often because they receive treatment too late. Many lives could be saved if more people were prepared to intervene to help heart attack victims.

•	Learn to Save a Life During American Heart Month

Did you know that according to the AARP many Americans age 45 and older know very little about the long-term care costs they may incur as they age or how they will pay for them? Learn about some of the key findings of a survey conducted by the AARP including, the price of long-term care and the payment options available for long-term care.

•	Most Americans 45 and Older Don't Know How Much Long-term Care Costs and How They Will Pay in the Future

Did you know that as parents you have a strong influence on whether your teen becomes a smoker? A recent study focusing on the associations between what teens think about their parents' opinions on smoking and what smoking activities the teens choose to pursue indicates that parents play a significant role in their teens likelihood to start smoking or be influenced by peers who smoke.

•	They Do Listen! Study Shows that Teens Are Less Likely to Smoke when Parents Discourage the Habit

A joint U.S. Department of Agriculture and Harvard University study indicates that current protection systems have kept bovine spongiform encephalopathy out of the country and would prevent it from spreading if it did enter. This study's findings include that a USDA ban on the import of live cattle, sheep, goats and related animal products from Europe has stopped the potential for people to be exposed to the disease. Learn more about the new preventative measures proposed to fight BSE in the US.

•	USDA: Study Shows Mad Cow Prevention Is Working in the U.S., and We Plan to Step Up Precautions

The Framingham Heart Study (FHS), a much lauded research study founded in 1948, is heralded as having coined the phrase "risk factor" and will begin studying a third generation of participants for cardiovascular disease and its relation to a host of other conditions. Learn why doctors feel this third generation study will help them explore new questions and options about heart disease.

•	The Grandchildren of a Landmark Heart Study's Original Participants Expand its Scope 50 Years Later

A detailed assessment by the National Institutes of Health of two fatal inhalation anthrax cases hopes to aid doctors in correctly diagnosing and identifying anthrax from more common infections. Learn the key focus points to this study and how doctors can ensure a fast diagnosis.

•	Details of Two Fatal Anthrax Cases Published to Help Doctors Quickly Identify the Infection in Their Patients

A Journal of General Internal Medicine Study has shown that the annual costs of caring for elderly people age 70 or older who suffer from dementia adds up to more than $18 billion per year. However, the demands are often more than just monetary, these challenging tasks require long hours and patience. Learn about several innovative projects aimed at caregiver support from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

•	Caregiving Costs Considerable Time and Money; HHS Announces New Support

A U.S. Department of Health and Human Services grant will help fund a multitude of new research projects at state agencies, major universities, hospitals, outpatient clinics, nursing homes, physicians' offices, professional societies, and other organizations across the country. The additional $50 million hopes to reduce medical errors and improve patient safety.

•	$50 Million Granted to Fund Quest for Patient Safety

How is the United States is prepared to deal with the presence of pathogenic bacteria in offices and mail facilities? What effort is being made to prepare for other possible bioterrorist attacks? Learn more about the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) bioterrorism program, the United States pharmaceutical stockpiles and the CDC's bioterrorism response plan.

•	How Is the CDC Preparing to Fight Bioterrorism

Did you know that each year, thousands of children require emergency care for injuries resulting from toy-related accidents? Of the 2 billion toys and games sold in this country each year most are safe, some however, are not. Learn more about toy safety statistics and what parents can do to reduce the risk of toy-related injuries.

•	December Is National Safe Toys and Gifts Month

The Centers for Disease Control's announcement that the "twin epidemics of diabetes and obesity continue to threaten the health of Americans" has made American Diabetes Month an important key in the battle against these preventable conditions.

•	American Diabetes Month Marked by "Twin Epidemics" of Diabetes and Obesity

A plan designed to improve the way patients, parents, and healthcare providers monitor and manage pediatric asthma is the centerpiece of a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation grant of $3.5 million dollars. Learn more about this grant and how to better manage asthma.

•	No More Trips to the ER: A New Program Pushes Asthma Management for Kids

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive condition that damages areas of the brain involved in memory, intelligence, judgment, language, and behavior and is the most common cause of mental decline on older adults. Learn more about the recent steps taken towards finding an Alzheimer's Vaccine, how your lifestyle may affect your risk and Future Research on Alzheimer's.

•	November Is National Alzheimer's Disease Month: News on Promising Research

Many in the medical community feel that the brief counseling given to those affected by the September 11th attacks isn't sufficient. To better serve those most affected, mental health professionals are creating new methods of treatment programs through studies of traumatic stress, new public funds for mental health assistance, and calls for readiness. Learn more on the help for today, tomorrow and beyond.

•	As the Threat of Terrorism Continues at Home, Major Mental Health Groups Focus on Support and Study of Its Psychological Effects

A panel of medical health and educational experts has developed new guidelines for school-aged children with ADHD. The panel believes that the guidelines will aid physicians more precise diagnosis of ADHD and assist with Long-term Treatment and Research.

•	New Guidelines Promote Effective Treatment for ADHD

The director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently addressed public health leaders from across the nation about how health care's disaster preparedness measured up to-and will grow because of-the terrorist attacks in New York, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania. He praised the health care system's response in New York City, describing the system as "one of the strongest public health systems in the country."

•	CDC Director: Terrorist Attacks Test Health Care's Disaster Readiness

Did you know that walkers might do more to harm children than help? In fact, research suggests that walkers may actually delay walking and can cause serious injury or death. Learn why the American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended a complete ban on the manufacture and sale of baby walkers.

•	Infants Walkers Linked to Many Injuries: American Academy of Pediatrics Calls for Ban

Did you know that Ephedra and related compounds were associated with heart attacks, hypertension, heart arrhythmias, strokes, seizures, and death? Find out why the FDA is considering the petition submitted by Public Citizen to ban the production and sale of dietary supplements that contain Ephedra.

•	Group Petitions FDA to Ban Ephedra

In the complex world of the HIV virus no clear path for a vaccine has been discovered, but most in the research community are confident that a vaccine will be developed. Learn more about the statistics surrounding HIV, the challenges facing researchers and their quest to build knowledge about this deadly infection.

•	Challenges and Promise: Researchers Get Closer to an HIV/AIDS Vaccine

 

Did you know that during the course of a year, half of uninsured children don't see a dentist or hygienist and nearly a third don't see a doctor? This is due to that fact that many parents of uninsured kids can't afford to pay for medical care. There is good news for these kids through low-cost and free insurance options. To learn more read the full story.

•	Uninsured Kids Often Don't Get the Medical Care They Need-Parents Can Help

Stem cell research has been touted by the National Institutes of Health as "a new era of modern medicine". However, many people have questions about the types of stem cells and how tax dollars will be used to fund research. Read on to learn more about stem cells and the debate that surrounds their use.

•	Following the President's Announcement, Stem Cell Lines Are Confirmed, Researchers Are Ready

According to a report from the CDC, women in the US are twice as likely as their male counterparts to visit a healthcare professional. Find out trends affecting this schism, how healthcare use changes with age, why aged women may not be getting the services they need and how race affects the care received by an individual.

•	CDC Report: Women's Use of Healthcare Services Differs from Men's and Varies by Age and Race

 

One the largest studies to examine the prevention of prostate cancer. The SELECT study will focus on the ability of selenium and vitamin E in the prevention of prostate cancer. This deadly disease will afflict around 200,000 American men this year. This research will recruit around 32,000 men over 12 years from all parts of the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico.

•	Biggest Prostate Cancer Prevention Study Begins, Many Others Show Promise

Although the likelihood of contracting the West Nile Virus is relatively small, the rapid spread of this disease has increased the need of the public to protect themselves. In most cases the virus can be treated and causes discomfort for those infected, however in those that are already ill or elderly the virus can be deadly. Learn more in the Health News Feature.

•	Spread of West Nile Virus Poses Danger for Some, Underscores Need for Prevention

Experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently changed their disease classification system, a change that resulted in what they say is a more accurate picture of the number of deaths attributed to Alzheimer's disease. Using the new system, the number of deaths attributed to Alzheimer's in 1999 was twice that of previous year, before the stand-alone condition known as "presenile dementia" was classified under the diagnosis of Alzheimer's.

•	Alzheimer's Disease, a Distressing Burden for Sufferers and Caregivers, Shown to be the Eighth Leading Cause of Death

OxyContin, a slow-release narcotic, is prescribed for pain due to ailments such as arthritis, back problems, and cancer. Many who use the medication claim only it can enable them to function. However, the Food and Drug Administration is concerned with reports of improper use, addiction, and death among users.

•	OxyContin Abuse: FDA Issues Its Strongest Warning

 

End-of-life care is a decision that can have far reaching consequences. Such decisions can lead to conflict. This conflict is not limited to family members however poor communication between medical staff and the family is said to lead to most of these conflicts. There are things that can be done to smooth this difficult decision-making process.

•	End-of-Life Care: Tough Decisions Call for Good Communication

For the nearly 7 million Americans that suffer from food allergies reading food labels can be a matter of life and death. The Food Allergen Consumer Protection Act hopes to ease these troubles by requiring food labels to list all the known allergens contained in foods.

•	New Changes to Food Labels Planned to Help Consumers with Common Food Allergies

A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on teen pregnancy shows startling new insights. This synopsis of the, Trends in Pregnancy Rates in the United States, will help you understand recent trends and provide valuable resources for teens reproductive health.

•	U.S. Teen Pregnancy Rate Reaches Record Low

The National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) has issued new guidelines for the prevention and management of high cholesterol --guidelines that redefine the cholesterol levels considered "high." The change is expected to increase the number of Americans receiving dietary treatment for cholesterol from about 52 million to 65 million, while those prescribed cholesterol-lowering drugs will rise from about 13 million to 36 million.

•	New Cholesterol Guidelines Mean Changes in Diagnosis, Treatment, and Lifestyle

Many people are confused by the proper way to prevent meningitis. This is particularly vexing because children are only vaccinated against one type of meningitis. Learn about meningitis, the differing forms of the disease and preemptory measures to stave off infection in this Health News Feature.

•	Understanding Meningitis: The Disease, Its Vaccines, and How People Catch It

Several organizations have banded together to battle what they believe to be the next major health crisis in America. According to a report on the subject about one-third of adults age 50 or older are sedentary. These groups hope that education will reverse this trend and help to prevent a decline in mental and physical abilities in older Americans.

•	Major Health Groups Stress that People 50 and Older Need More Exercise

Everywhere you turn, you're more and more likely to find advertisements for prescription medications... television, magazines, radio, and even billboards. Patients who see these ads are asking their doctors about the drugs, and even requesting prescriptions. But do the ads tell the whole story?

•	Consumers Respond to Ads for Prescription Drugs, but May Overlook the Fine Print

Clinical trials have long been accused of under representing women in studies. However, in recent years women have become a major part of medical research and are helping to open new doors in medicine.

•	As More Women Participate in Medical Studies, Diagnosis and Treatment Improve

One of the fastest reviews ever conducted for an oncology medication has given CML sufferers an oral treatment that may offer a glimpse into the future of cancer treatment. Although results of the first clinical trials have been impressive, many research questions remain to be answered.

•	New Cancer Medication Offers Promise for Future Treatment

Conclusions found by a recent panel of experts at a gathering of the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) may surprise you! They feel that regular physical activity lowers people's risks for breast and colon cancer, and possibly endometrial and prostate cancer. Learn more about these and other exciting conclusions from the WHO panel.

•	Many Cases of Colon, Breast, and Kidney Cancer Caused by Overweight and Inactivity

Many people will visit local petting zoos for education and entertainment this summer. Recently, some fifty-six people were sickened and 19 were hospitalized with an Escherichia coli (E. coli) infection linked to local petting zoos. Follow the six strategies outlined in this week's article to help ensure you and your family's safety.

•	Outbreaks at Petting Zoos Raise Concern about E. coli Infection

"I can never get enough sleep" is an all too common a phrase from Americans these days. Some 63 percent of American adults are said not to get the recommended 8 hours of sleep per night. The consequences of too little sleep can be severe and may include loss of memory and concentration, a weakened immune system, and constant fatigue.

•	Tired Americans Work Harder, Sleep Less