Insidermedicine in 60 - June 23, 2008

From the UK - The NHS will pay smokers in poor areas of a Scotland city about $25 a week to give up cigarettes. In the trial program participants will have to pass a carbon monoxide breath test to prove they have not been smoking and will be rewarded with money credited to an electronic card which can be exchanged for fresh food and groceries, but not alcohol or cigarettes.

From Israel - Those with piercings in their tongue or lip are at high risk for dental complications. In a study of 400 adults aged 18-19, researchers found that 15 to 20% of those with oral piercings were at increased risk for both tooth fractures and gum disease. The researchers also warn that the repeated trauma to the gums associated with oral piercings may eventually lead to frontal tooth loss.

And finally, from Atlanta - So far this year, eight human cases of West Nile virus have been reported in the U.S. West Nile, which may include symptoms such high fever, headaches, body aches and severe fatigue, will likely reach its peak between mid-July and mid-September. The CDC recommends that you protect yourself by using mosquito repellent, eliminating standing water where mosquitoes can lay eggs, and supporting mosquito control programs in your community.

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

Category:

Science & Technology

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• cigarette
• smoking
• lung
• cancer
• national
• health
• service
• tongue
• lip
• piercing
• tooth
• fracture
• dental
• mosquito
• west
• nile
• virus