How to Recognize A Stroke

Chances of surviving a brain attack are greater if the time between the onset and the start of treatment is minimal. Here are symptoms to recognize a stroke, knowing them could reduce the likelihood of the person being severely disabled.

1. Confusion and trouble speaking
2. Difficulty moving
3. Severe headache
4. Numbness of one side of the body
5. Weakness of the face, an arm or a leg
6. Visions and perceptions problems

Learn more about these symptoms.

Calcium Plus Vitamin-D Good Against Melanoma

In a randomized controlled trial of calcium and vitamin-D supplements, researchers found a trend towards protection of the skin from melanoma. Researchers wanted to evaluate the impact on bone health and fracture. For the study 36, 282 post menopausal women age 50-79 were followed for a mean period of 7 years. They were given either 400 iu of vitamin D3 plus 1000mg of calcium, or a placebo. Researchers found that the women with non-melanoma skin cancer, who took the combination supplements developed 57% fewer melanomas than those who did not take the supplements.

Read the results of the study in more detail.

Five Ways To Prevent a Brain Attack

According to a new study a low risk lifestyle will reduce the risk of ischemic stroke by about 80%. The report on this study gave 5 ways to maintain this low risk lifestyle, they are: 1-Smoking cessation 2- To women, get off the hormones 3-Eat your vegies 4-Keep blood pressure and cholesterol under control 5-Take aspirin and blood thinners if your doctor orders them Read about these in more detail. I want to add these important actions that will reduce health risk factors that cause cardiovascular disease. They are: 1- Quit smoking 2-Keep physically active 3-Maintain a healthy body weight 4-Healthy eating There is a consumer health education program that prepares people to live a healthier lifestyle. Click Here to learn more about it or to start preparing.

Children With Food Allergies Often Face Skepticism - US News and World Report

At a recent study, researchers interviewed 26 families dealing with nut allergies, they included parents, children and teens. The study found that some children described themselves as being taunted or feeling excluded during social events. Here is a story about Bela Mehta and her son who was diagnosed with peanut allergy, read about it and the report of the study. Children With Food Allergies Often Face Skepticism - US News and World Report

Information Technology Improves Diabetes Care

Using new information technology helps improve diabetes care through diet, exercise and medication compliance.

A study involving 12 primary care practices with 163 patients looked at the role of technology in managing diabetes.

Participants received cell phones preloaded with diabetes management software, they entered their own blood glucose levels when tested.

The application:

1. Analyzed the readings.
2. Send text messages coaching the patient on ways to stabilize their blood sugar levels
3. Send educational messages for lifestyle changes
4. Send information on disease management

Patients who used the the application saw a mean drop in glycated hemoglobin of 1.9%.