Insidermedicine in 60 - April 18, 2008

From Washington - Those who received this year's flu vaccine were only 44% less likely to get the flu, when compared to a group of subjects who didn't receive the vaccine. In typical years, the vaccine confers immunity to 70% of those vaccinated. Both the CDC and the WHO have recommended a reformulation of next year's flu vaccine to better match strains of influenza.

From Boston - Migraine headaches can raise the risk of heart attack and stroke. Researchers noted that those who had migraines with an aura less than once per month were 64% more likely to have a heart attack, and those who had a migraine with an aura more than once per week had nearly a 3 fold higher risk for stroke. Migraines with an aura are headaches that are usually preceded by a neurological sign such as flashing lights or visual blind spots.

And finally, from Ottawa - Bottle maker Nalgene is ceasing production of its virtually unbreakable water bottle, due to concerns over the toxicity of the plastic that is used. Animal studies have linked Bisphenol A, or BPA, to chemical changes in the hormonal system, and potential long-term cancer risks. Other products that often contain BPA include baby bottles and children's training cups.

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

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• influenza
• vaccine
• injection
• needle
• migraine
• headache
• aura
• heart
• attack
• nalgene
• water
• bottle
• plastic
• bisphenol
• toxic
• bpa

[vorar]

I'm taking back all my Nalgene Bottles to REI. We have a breastfed 6 month old and have been drinking out of Nalgene bottles for years. If REI takes them back they keep us as customers if not they lose us. This is how important this is to us.