Insidermedicine in 60 - May 12, 2009

Today's Headlines: DASH Diet Reduces Heart Failure Risk in Women, Cognitive Function Linked to AMD, U.S. Melanoma Rates Increasing Rapidly --

From Boston - According to research in the Archives of Internal Medicine, the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, or DASH diet, may help reduce the risk of heart failure in women. In a study of over 36,000 women, researchers found that those whose diets were most like the DASH diet had a 51% lower rate of heart failure. The DASH diet includes high intake of fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy and whole grains.

From Australia - According to research in the Archives of Ophthalmology, cognitive function may be linked to age-related macular degeneration. In a study of over 2,000 patients aged 69 to 97, researchers found that those who scored low on a test of cognitive function had a 40% increased risk of AMD. The researchers suggest that these conditions may share similar pathogenesis and risk factors.

And finally, from Montreal - According to research presented to the Society for Investigative Dermatology, U.S. melanoma rates are increasing rapidly. Researchers found that between 1992 and 2004 the incidence rate of melanoma increased from 18.2 per 100,000 to 26.3 per 100,000. The researchers believe this represents a genuine increase in melanoma cases, not just a sign of better screening.

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

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Science & Technology

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