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Percentage of U.S. smokers (excluding those in California) who consume 20 cigarettes a day or more, down from 56% in 1965. The decrease in the number of heavy, pack-a-day smokers is largely responsible for the overall decline in American smoking rates — from 40% in 1965 to about 20% in 2006 — researchers say. The first surgeon general's report on smoking and health was released in 1964. [via JAMA]
Maintaining good health during pregnancy is one of the surest ways mothers can protect their developing babies’ well-being. A new study suggests that adequate levels of vitamin D could be one such protective factor.
Since November, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has received 900 complaints of pet illnesses and deaths from owners and vets stemming from China-made chicken jerky dog treats. See the full story on our companion blog NewsFeed.
Tuberculosis has been brought under control in much of the world, thanks to prevention practices and powerful antibiotics. But in poor nations like Peru, the disease still kills hundreds of babies and children — and new drug-resistant cases threaten an even bigger resurgence.
