Researchers announced the promising results of a new genetic test that can predict the most aggressive prostate cancers; New Jersey governor Chris Christie has gastric lap-band surgery, and moms who lick their babies’ pacifiers clean may be doing their kids’ immune systems a favor. These are some of the major stories making health news this week.
Obesity
Gov. Chris Christie’s Weight-Loss Surgery Demystified
When New Jersey Governor Chris Christie quietly opted for weight-loss surgery in February, he chose the safest — but often least effective — procedure.
Patients who undergo gastric-band surgery — Lap-Band is the trade …
The Latest Tool for Tracking Obesity? Facebook Likes
Obesity is a big problem that needs big solutions, and Facebook may be coming to the rescue.
How Much Exercise Will It Take to Work Off a Burger? Menus May Soon Tell You
More restaurants display calorie counts on their menus, but what if they also informed you what it would take to burn off those calories?
Pushing Teens to Change Their Eating Habits Could Backfire
Parents who exert too much control over what their children eat may not be doing their adolescents any favors when it comes to controlling the youngsters’ weight, according to the latest study.
Study Identifies Four New Genetic Markers For Severe Childhood Obesity
Unhealthy food environments and sedentary lifestyles certainly contribute to obesity, but they can’t entirely explain weight gain. The latest research points to four new genes that could contribute to the most extreme cases of …
Stricter School Lunch Standards Lead To Lighter Kids
Complying with federal guidelines for healthy meals in schools helps children to stay leaner, according to the latest study on school lunches.
Is Self-Help the Secret to Reducing Childhood Obesity?
There is no shortage of strategies to lose weight, but which work best for children?
Can You Smell Obesity?
According to the latest research, it may be on your breath.
Sugary Beverages Linked to 180,000 Deaths Worldwide
Mayor Michael Bloomberg might be right; maybe we should be drinking fewer sodas.
Skim Milk May Not Lower Obesity Risk Among Children
Got milk? It turns out that low-fat versions may not be the answer to helping kids maintain a healthy weight.
Americans Are Eating Fewer Calories, So Why Are We Still Obese?
The good news: we’re eating fewer calories. The bad news: that’s not translating into lower obesity rates.
Doctors’ Advice About Obesity: It’s Personal
Doctors’ biases may influence how they care for their obese patients.
