Bacterial infections can imperil the fragile patients at hospitals‘ intensive care units. And a new study reveals an unlikely spreader: the health care workers who treat them. The standard sterile hospital garb typically thought to prevent infections isn’t helping.
Policy & Industry
Experimental Cholesterol-Lowering Drug Shows Promise
One in six Americans have high cholesterol, but one in five can’t take the popular statin medications to keep their levels down.
Fish May Be Unfairly Blamed as Primary Source of Mercury Exposure
It’s well known advice for pregnant women — don’t eat fish while you’re expecting, since the mercury they contain could harm a developing brain.
Fewer Drugs Being Prescribed to Treat Mental Illness Among Kids
As rates of behavioral disorders like attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and anxiety rose among children, so did concerns about treating them with psychotropic drugs.
Rearview Camera Delay Steers U.S. Into Court Challenge
Consumer groups filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) on Wednesday for delaying a rule that would require new cars sold in the U.S. to have back-up cameras.
NY Wants Texters to Pull Over
‘Texting Zones’ are coming
FDA Approves Botox for Reducing Crow’s Feet
The form of botulinum toxin known as Botox Cosmetic will now carry indications for treating the fine lines that gather around the eyelids.
Long-acting Pain Drugs No Longer Approved for Treating Moderate Pain
Pain drugs will need new warnings to alert patients and doctors about their dangers.
FDA Says Arsenic Levels in Rice Are Safe–For Now
On Friday, scientists from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the results of its initial investigation into the presence of arsenic in rice, and concluded that levels of the chemical are very low and do not pose …
Viewpoint: How Marijuana Decision Could Signal Turning Point in the U.S. War on Drugs
The war on drugs may have ended today.
Need to See the Doctor? You May Have Company on Your Next Visit
Shared medical appointments, or group visits, are becoming a popular — and possibly more satisfying — way to see the doctor.
Why It’s Taking So Long to Find the Source of the Cyclospora Contamination
The first cases emerged at the end of June, and health officials have only just identified the possible source of the cyclospora contamination that has sickened more than 400 people. Why is the outbreak so difficult to track?
Acetaminophen Linked to Fatal Skin Reactions
Acetaminophen is one of the most widely used medicines for fever and pain, commonly found in drugs like in Tylenol. On Thursday, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that acetaminophen is causing rare, but dangerous …