Health News

Structure of key breast cancer target enzyme unraveled
A researcher at Hauptman-Woodward Medical Research Institute has moved a step closer to a cure, and possibly the prevention, of the most common type of breast cancer. ANI

Smoking claimed 673,000 Chinese lives in 2005
A multinational research team, led by scientists at Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, has lent more force to the suggestion that smoking is a significant risk factor for mortality and disease. ANI

Genetic mutations can predict childhood leukaemia relapse
A collaborative study by American researchers has revealed that changes in a gene called IKAROS can help predict a high likelihood of relapse in children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). ANI

Health News for September 24, 2007

Ventrolateral nucleus area of brain linked to sensory processing
The ventrolateral nucleus (VL) of the thalamus in the brain, which is connected to the cerebellum and motor cortex and is thought to be involved in motor function, also plays a role in sensory processing, according to a new study. ANI

Alcohol, drugs increase likelihood of becoming homicide victim
A new study by researchers at the University of New South Wales suggests that people who drink or dope are at a greater risk of becoming homicide victims, as they react differently to dangerous situations. ANI

UKs National Health Service blunders revealed
A number of confidential documents released under the new Freedom of Information Act has shed light on several NHS (National Health Service) blunders, including a case where a patient underwent brain surgery on the wrong side of his head. ANI

Blood test on expectant mums offers clues to foetal health
A new study has found that tiny genetic fragments from the foetus circulate in an expectant mothers blood before she gives birth, which means that doctors may one day be able to test for a wide range of congenital diseases without the need for invasive procedures. ANI

Boffins create the perfect batter to make fried fish tastier
For all those who love fish and chips, here is some good news - Japanese scientists have come up with the perfect recipe to make a crispy batter which is also lower in fat. ANI

Diet and medication may help prevent prostate cancer
A new review study has revealed that recent studies of medications, diet and the molecular understanding of prostate cancer are creating potential prevention strategies for the disease, and heralding a new stage in the management of this cancer. ANI

Scientists develop quick test for bird flu
A team of scientists from Singapores Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology have created a hand-held device that can spot the deadly H5N1 bird flu virus within half an hour. ANI

Computer model could improve some drugs efficacy
A team of researchers has developed a computer model that could help advance a class of drugs based on antibodies, molecules key to the immune system. ANI

Aussie remains conscious during brain tumour surgery
A 77-year-old man in Canberra underwent a surgery to have a life-threatening blister from his brain while remaining conscious throughout the operation. ANI