Your Brain On Cigarettes

Perhaps some of you (non-smokers?) remember the last claims of benefit from cigarettes – that they make you sharper. Nicotine was supposed to somehow improve alertness and mental function (separate, that is, from the improvement any addict feels when withdrawal symptoms are relieved). That last mighty claim of benefit just bit the dust. Well-designed large-scale, […]

M.D.ea Culpa

Sometimes playing the blame game is the right thing to do. Recent research is pointing an accusing finger at doctors who fail to obtain appropriate health tests and interventions for…well, let’s just say certain patients. As in, specifically, African American patients. Is this racism? Class-ism? Sexism? Do your doctor’s biases affect your health? Or is […]

Warms Your Heart

Ah, that amazing sunshine vitamin strikes again. Studies are now mounting (this is not the first) to show a strong link between vitamin D and your heart. Low vitamin D levels are linked to increased risks of heart attack. This latest study is a case control study in the Archives of Internal Medicine that shows […]

Patch That Poop!

This nifty news falls into the category of “Things We Wish We Had Right Now As We Go Through Customs.” Researchers are developing a vaccine for toxic E. Coli diarrhea, otherwise known as traveler’s diarrhea. What makes this vaccine really swift is that it’s a patch you apply to your skin. Look Ma, no needles! […]

Soda Free Summer!

Six Bay Area counties have banded together to promote Soda Free Summer, especially among youth. Why should you care? Let’s take a look at what that sweet fizzy liquid you’re holding in your hand right now is costing you in terms of health, shall we?

Liquid Obesity* Question of the Day:

What has the same […]

Tropical Grand Rounds

Feel the island breeze? Got that scratchy sand feeling between your toes? If so, that means you’re ready for a great beach read – and here is it, thanks to Dr. David Khorram over at Marianas Eye. He’s hosting this week’s Grand Rounds with a tropical theme from Saipan. What makes a good beach read? […]