And speaking of how a food s label does not necessarily indicate a particular risk (or benefit), ACSH would like to congratulate Wal-Mart for its recent decision to sell genetically modified (GM) sweet corn. At a time when many activist groups are fighting to label products made with genetically modified ingredients, Wal-Mart s decision speaks volumes.

In 2002, a large study called the Women s Health Initiative (WHI) was abruptly halted after preliminary results showed that estrogen replacement therapy was associated with an increased risk of breast cancer and cardiovascular effects. Though it was later determined that these problems were primarily occurring among older women who started hormone replacement therapy (HRT) long after menopause, the damage had already been done.

When it comes to breast cancer and the too common phenomenon of over-diagnosis, it seems as though new studies emerge continually. Nearly all of them suggest that far too many women are being screened and treated unnecessarily.

We ve previously reported on various studies touting the alleged health benefits of chocolate consumption, and now new research from Sweden claiming that moderate chocolate intake can reduce a man s risk of stroke can be added to the pile.

In 2011, over 3.7 billion retail prescription drugs were filled in U.S. retail pharmacies, according to health statistics compiled by the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation. So with such a large number of scripts issued, it becomes even more imperative to ensure drug quality. But a new Reuters investigation finds that pharmaceutical quality control may not be at the top of the list for many manufacturing plants in China.

Combining vitamin B3 (niacin) with current antibiotics may help to better treat staph infections, according to new research published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation.
For the study, scientists from Oregon State University found that mice and human blood cells treated with large doses of vitamin B3 combated staph infections more effectively, compared to control samples.

Is sperm quality and quantity on the decline? That s the focus of a recent article which investigates the issue by citing a number of studies over the years that either support or refute the notion that male fertility is decreasing.

Pregnancy should be a joyful experience. Thus, the discovery of a breast lump while pregnant comes as an especially fearful development, and if the subsequent biopsy report confirms a malignant growth, depression even panic may occur. The natural fear for one s own health is multiplied by concern for how treatment might harm or even end the new life in the womb.

The growing popularity of so-called energy drinks among young people has prompted an investigation into whether the companies are misleading consumers about risks associated with the beverages.

A study just published in the Archives of Internal Medicine has found evidence for another advantage of physical fitness: a lower risk of chronic disease later in life. The study, led by Dr.