Insidermedicine in 60 - April 24, 2008

From Toronto - Scientists are one step closer to being able to regenerate damaged heart tissue with stem cells. Researchers from University Health Network were able to create three lines of cardiac cells from embryonic stem cells: muscle cells, endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells. These findings may allow for the creation of heart tissue that could allow for the testing of heart medicines and may lead to the creation of an artificial heart.

From Korea - In a study of over 4,300 colonoscopies, researchers noted that doctors were deemed competent after performing 150 procedures. After achieving this many procedures they were able to visualize and document landmarks in the cecum over 80% of the time by the 20 minute mark. Colonoscopy is recommended for those over the age of 50 to screen for colorectal cancer.

And finally, from Chicago - While many recognize that sunburns and the use of tanning beds may raise the risk of skin cancer, this knowledge is not affecting behavior. In a survey of 100 beach-attending subjects, 87% responded that they were aware of the association between tanning and skin cancer. But nearly a third reported having used tanning beds within the last year. Nearly 80% of respondents believed that those with a tan looked healthier.

For Insidermedicine in 60, I'm Dr. Susan Sharma.

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• embryonic
• stem
• cell
• cardiac
• heart
• science
• colonoscopy
• colon
• cancer
• tanning
• bed
• suntan
• beach
• summer
• sunblock
• medicine
• uh

[harphone]

Static beach scene.