News on General Medical Issues
News stories of interest to parents of children with medical special needs, from the Parenting Special Needs blog and news sources around the Web. For the latest news, go to the Today's News folder.
Top Ten Ways to Annoy Your Doctor
From Musings of a Distractible MInd: "Some suggestions for disgruntled patients (or grutled ones, for that matter) to make their doctor%u2019s day much worse." (11/6/09)
From Musings of a Distractible MInd: "Some suggestions for disgruntled patients (or grutled ones, for that matter) to make their doctor%u2019s day much worse." (11/6/09)
Should Kids on Immunosuppressantn Receive the H1N1 Vaccine?
From Newswise: "The CDC has classified all children, 6-months to 24-years [as] high risk for contracting the H1N1 flu, and recommend this population receive the H1N1 vaccine for immunity against the disease. But what about the millions of children who are battling ... chronic diseases including asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, HIV, IBD, and other digestive disorders such as Crohn's disease?" (10/30/09)
From Newswise: "The CDC has classified all children, 6-months to 24-years [as] high risk for contracting the H1N1 flu, and recommend this population receive the H1N1 vaccine for immunity against the disease. But what about the millions of children who are battling ... chronic diseases including asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, HIV, IBD, and other digestive disorders such as Crohn's disease?" (10/30/09)
Regeneration Can be Achieved after Chronic Spinal Cord Injury
From Newswise: "Scientists at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine report that regeneration of central nervous system axons can be achieved in rats even when treatment delayed is more than a year after the original spinal cord injury." (10/29/09)
From Newswise: "Scientists at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine report that regeneration of central nervous system axons can be achieved in rats even when treatment delayed is more than a year after the original spinal cord injury." (10/29/09)
Girl with Mermaid Syndrome Dies at Age 10
From About.com Rare Diseases: "Sirenomelia is a condition in which one's legs are fused together from the waist down. Pepin did not have any genital organs or a large intestine. Most children born with sirenomelia die soon after birth." (10/29/09)
From About.com Rare Diseases: "Sirenomelia is a condition in which one's legs are fused together from the waist down. Pepin did not have any genital organs or a large intestine. Most children born with sirenomelia die soon after birth." (10/29/09)
Study Targets Stroke Prevention in Children with Sickle Cell Anemia
From Newswise: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital investigators were recently awarded a $23 million federal grant to launch a national study of the drug hydroxyurea to prevent first strokes in children and adolescents with sickle cell anemia (SCA)." (10/29/09)
From Newswise: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital investigators were recently awarded a $23 million federal grant to launch a national study of the drug hydroxyurea to prevent first strokes in children and adolescents with sickle cell anemia (SCA)." (10/29/09)
Guided Imagery for Stomach Pain
From About.com Alternative Medicine: "Guided imagery may help kids cope with functional abdominal pain, a new study suggests. A condition common among children, functional abdominal pain is marked by an ongoing stomach discomfort with no identifiable underlying cause." (10/28/09)
From About.com Alternative Medicine: "Guided imagery may help kids cope with functional abdominal pain, a new study suggests. A condition common among children, functional abdominal pain is marked by an ongoing stomach discomfort with no identifiable underlying cause." (10/28/09)
Term of the Week - Hypothyroidism
From About.com Down Syndrome: "Hypothyroidism - or an underactive thyroid gland - occurs quite frequently in people with Down syndrome. While some infants are born with hypothyroidism, called congenital hypothyroidism, others develop this disorder later in life." (10/26/09)
From About.com Down Syndrome: "Hypothyroidism - or an underactive thyroid gland - occurs quite frequently in people with Down syndrome. While some infants are born with hypothyroidism, called congenital hypothyroidism, others develop this disorder later in life." (10/26/09)
Boston and Cricopharyngeal Achalasia
From Garden of Eagan: "Have you ever dropped the ball on something? How about, if you're the parent of a child with a complex medical history, have you ever just gotten so tired of the constant unanswered questions that you just stop???" (10/22/09)
From Garden of Eagan: "Have you ever dropped the ball on something? How about, if you're the parent of a child with a complex medical history, have you ever just gotten so tired of the constant unanswered questions that you just stop???" (10/22/09)
A major step in making better stem cells from adult tissue
From Science Blog: "A team led by scientists from The Scripps Research Institute has developed a method that dramatically improves the efficiency of creating stem cells from human adult tissue, without the use of embryonic cells. The research makes great strides in addressing a major practical challenge in the development of stem-cell-based medicine." (10/19/09)
From Science Blog: "A team led by scientists from The Scripps Research Institute has developed a method that dramatically improves the efficiency of creating stem cells from human adult tissue, without the use of embryonic cells. The research makes great strides in addressing a major practical challenge in the development of stem-cell-based medicine." (10/19/09)
CDC Confirms Sickest Flu Patients Have Comorbities
From About.com Dying: "The CDC has confirmed that the sickest patients with the pandemic H1N1 (swine flu) virus have other serious medical conditions. The findings applied to both children and adults. Among about 1,400 adults hospitalized with the flu, the most common pre-existing conditions were asthma, diabetes, chronic lung disease, chronic heart disease, and immunosuppression." (10/16/09)
From About.com Dying: "The CDC has confirmed that the sickest patients with the pandemic H1N1 (swine flu) virus have other serious medical conditions. The findings applied to both children and adults. Among about 1,400 adults hospitalized with the flu, the most common pre-existing conditions were asthma, diabetes, chronic lung disease, chronic heart disease, and immunosuppression." (10/16/09)
Soothing Imagery May Help Rid Some Kids of Stomach Pain
From HealthDay: "Children who experience frequent stomach aches can use their imagination to reduce their pain, new study findings suggest." (10/14/09)
From HealthDay: "Children who experience frequent stomach aches can use their imagination to reduce their pain, new study findings suggest." (10/14/09)
Testing Infants for Disabilities and Developmental Delays
From About.com Learning Disabilities: "Most evaluations of infants are conducted through standardized observations such as the Bayley Scales of Infant Development and the Battelle Developmental Inventory. Learn more about early developmental milestones and the early identification of disabilities." (10/12/09)
From About.com Learning Disabilities: "Most evaluations of infants are conducted through standardized observations such as the Bayley Scales of Infant Development and the Battelle Developmental Inventory. Learn more about early developmental milestones and the early identification of disabilities." (10/12/09)
H1N1 Striking Children With Disabilities Hard, Officials Say
From Disability Scoop: "'The majority of children that we have information on had an underlying disease,' according to Anne Schuchat, head of the CDC’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases. 'Among children, muscular dystrophy and cerebral palsy are quite prominent.'" (10/10/09)
From Disability Scoop: "'The majority of children that we have information on had an underlying disease,' according to Anne Schuchat, head of the CDC’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases. 'Among children, muscular dystrophy and cerebral palsy are quite prominent.'" (10/10/09)
Check Out This Flu Self-Assessment Tool
From About.com Infectious Diseases: "Microsoft and Emory University have joined forces to put together a pretty cool little quiz to help people determine if they (or a loved one) have the flu, or if the symptoms that they are experiencing point to something else." (10/9/09)
From About.com Infectious Diseases: "Microsoft and Emory University have joined forces to put together a pretty cool little quiz to help people determine if they (or a loved one) have the flu, or if the symptoms that they are experiencing point to something else." (10/9/09)
Vaccinating boys against human papillomavirus not cost-effective
From Science Blog: "In a new study, Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) researchers found that if vaccine coverage and efficacy are high in girls, a universal recommendation to vaccinate young boys is unlikely to provide comparatively good value for resources, compared with vaccinating girls only." (10/9/09)
From Science Blog: "In a new study, Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) researchers found that if vaccine coverage and efficacy are high in girls, a universal recommendation to vaccinate young boys is unlikely to provide comparatively good value for resources, compared with vaccinating girls only." (10/9/09)
Kids with disabilities and H1N1: What to do?
From Disability News: "Early data suggests that children with disabilities are at a higher risk of death if they contract the H1N1 swine flu. This leaves parents with a tough choice: leave kids with disabilities in school to keep things as normal as possible, or keep them home to avoid exposure." (10/8/09)
From Disability News: "Early data suggests that children with disabilities are at a higher risk of death if they contract the H1N1 swine flu. This leaves parents with a tough choice: leave kids with disabilities in school to keep things as normal as possible, or keep them home to avoid exposure." (10/8/09)
Child burn injuries down significantly
From Science Blog: "One of the largest studies ever done on burn injuries in kids is out from experts at Nationwide Children's Hospital and the results are mixed: while overall injuries are down, there are some kids who are still at serious risk." (10/5/09)
From Science Blog: "One of the largest studies ever done on burn injuries in kids is out from experts at Nationwide Children's Hospital and the results are mixed: while overall injuries are down, there are some kids who are still at serious risk." (10/5/09)
Clearing Up Eczema: Choose the Right Soap
From Peanut Allergy Kid: "Did you know that many soaps can make eczema worse? If you have lived with this issue long, you have probably gone through several kinds in an attempt to find one that does not aggravate the condition worse." (10/5/09)
From Peanut Allergy Kid: "Did you know that many soaps can make eczema worse? If you have lived with this issue long, you have probably gone through several kinds in an attempt to find one that does not aggravate the condition worse." (10/5/09)
Women's Weight and Baby Heart Conditions
From Lil Sugar: "The American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology is reporting that overweight women are more likely to produce babies with congenital heart defects." (10/5/09)
From Lil Sugar: "The American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology is reporting that overweight women are more likely to produce babies with congenital heart defects." (10/5/09)
SIDS Awareness Month
From The Princess & The Monkey: "October is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Awareness Month." (10/3/09)
From The Princess & The Monkey: "October is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Awareness Month." (10/3/09)
Spina Bifida Awareness Month
That would be October, the blog Raising Toby reminds us. (10/3/09)
That would be October, the blog Raising Toby reminds us. (10/3/09)
Can strep throat cause OCD, Tourette syndrome?
From Science Blog: Earlier small studies said yes, but new research fails to back that up. (10/1/09)
From Science Blog: Earlier small studies said yes, but new research fails to back that up. (10/1/09)
September Is Craniofacial Acceptance Month
From Kidz: "I am aware that September is over. But I can honestly say acceptance is something I fight for every day of the year, on behalf of my son." (9/30/09)
From Kidz: "I am aware that September is over. But I can honestly say acceptance is something I fight for every day of the year, on behalf of my son." (9/30/09)
Sequenom fires CEO, research chief after probe of test data
From Disability News: "San Diego-based Sequenom Inc. today announced the firings of two top executives following a five-month-long independent investigation of alleged mishandling of research data on a first-trimester blood test for Down syndrome. Company executives had touted its SEQureDx test as 100 percent accurate." (9/29/09)
From Disability News: "San Diego-based Sequenom Inc. today announced the firings of two top executives following a five-month-long independent investigation of alleged mishandling of research data on a first-trimester blood test for Down syndrome. Company executives had touted its SEQureDx test as 100 percent accurate." (9/29/09)
'Collision' in prenatal testing predicted
From Disability News: "Dr. Brian Skotko foresees a 'collision' between increasingly sophisticated prenatal tests and doctors who have not been trained to interpret the tests or deliver up-to-date information about detectable conditions to prospective parents." (9/24/09)
From Disability News: "Dr. Brian Skotko foresees a 'collision' between increasingly sophisticated prenatal tests and doctors who have not been trained to interpret the tests or deliver up-to-date information about detectable conditions to prospective parents." (9/24/09)
Scientists find that individuals in vegetative states can learn
From Science Blog: "Scientists have found that some individuals in the vegetative and minimally conscious states, despite lacking the means of reporting awareness themselves, can learn and thereby demonstrate at least a partial consciousness." (9/21/09)
From Science Blog: "Scientists have found that some individuals in the vegetative and minimally conscious states, despite lacking the means of reporting awareness themselves, can learn and thereby demonstrate at least a partial consciousness." (9/21/09)
Very Small Head Size Could Signal Problems in Newborns
From HealthDay: "Early screening urged for detection of epilepsy and other health issues, experts say." (9/15/09)
From HealthDay: "Early screening urged for detection of epilepsy and other health issues, experts say." (9/15/09)
Move Over Gardasil, There May Be a New HPV Vaccine in Town
From About.com Cancer: "An FDA advisory panel has recommended the approval of a new HPV vaccine, Cervarix. Obviously a rival to Merck's Gardasil, Cervarix has been approved in Europe for just about as long as Gardasil has in the states." (9/12/09)
From About.com Cancer: "An FDA advisory panel has recommended the approval of a new HPV vaccine, Cervarix. Obviously a rival to Merck's Gardasil, Cervarix has been approved in Europe for just about as long as Gardasil has in the states." (9/12/09)
Flu Vaccine Update for the 2009/2010 Season
From AskDrSears.com: "The most important thing for infants, children, and pregnant women is to MAKE SURE YOU ARE GETTING A MERCURY-FREE FLU VACCINE. Here is a list of this year's available flu vaccines with updated info on mercury content." (9/11/09)
From AskDrSears.com: "The most important thing for infants, children, and pregnant women is to MAKE SURE YOU ARE GETTING A MERCURY-FREE FLU VACCINE. Here is a list of this year's available flu vaccines with updated info on mercury content." (9/11/09)
Sleep woes more persistent in chronically ill kids
From Reuters: "Helping chronically ill children sleep better could have major impacts on their quality of life -- and that of their families, Hysing said. Lack of sleep can worsen the symptoms of many chronic illnesses, and making it harder for kids to learn. Too little sleep can also impair the immune system, making the child more prone to other illnesses." (9/11/09)
From Reuters: "Helping chronically ill children sleep better could have major impacts on their quality of life -- and that of their families, Hysing said. Lack of sleep can worsen the symptoms of many chronic illnesses, and making it harder for kids to learn. Too little sleep can also impair the immune system, making the child more prone to other illnesses." (9/11/09)
FDA panel urges HPV vaccine be given to boys - CNN.com
From CNN: "Boys may soon be able to get Gardasil, the vaccine given to girls and young women to prevent infection by four types of human papillomavirus." (9/10/09)
From CNN: "Boys may soon be able to get Gardasil, the vaccine given to girls and young women to prevent infection by four types of human papillomavirus." (9/10/09)
There is New Hope for Brain Injury-Related Vegetative Patients!
From Spinal Cord Injury: "The Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute, one of the world's largest and most prestigious of its kind, announced that it has begun a 3-year-long extensive study on the effects and the potential of the common sleep drug zolpidem (formerly marketed as Ambien) in restoring vegetative patients back to consciousness." (9/9/09)
From Spinal Cord Injury: "The Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute, one of the world's largest and most prestigious of its kind, announced that it has begun a 3-year-long extensive study on the effects and the potential of the common sleep drug zolpidem (formerly marketed as Ambien) in restoring vegetative patients back to consciousness." (9/9/09)
Swine Flu Poses Risk to Kids With Neurological Conditions
From HealthDay: "But U.S. officials say death rate seems no higher than with seasonal flu." (9/4/09)
From HealthDay: "But U.S. officials say death rate seems no higher than with seasonal flu." (9/4/09)
Experts urge wider folic acid use
From BBC: "Research suggests up to 75% of cases could be prevented by the mother taking folic acid three months before conception, and during pregnancy." (9/2/09)
From BBC: "Research suggests up to 75% of cases could be prevented by the mother taking folic acid three months before conception, and during pregnancy." (9/2/09)
Baby born with heart outside his chest
From CNN: "The child also has a hole in his heart and is thought to have an extremely rare condition called ectopia cordis where the chest fails to close over all or part of the heart." (8/31/09)
From CNN: "The child also has a hole in his heart and is thought to have an extremely rare condition called ectopia cordis where the chest fails to close over all or part of the heart." (8/31/09)
Judge Will Not Block Swine Flu Vaccine Containing Thimerosal
From Disability Scoop: "A federal judge said Wednesday that he will not prevent a swine flu vaccine containing the mercury-based preservative thimerosal from being given to pregnant women." (8/27/09)
From Disability Scoop: "A federal judge said Wednesday that he will not prevent a swine flu vaccine containing the mercury-based preservative thimerosal from being given to pregnant women." (8/27/09)
Brain's Wrinkles Protect Against Head Banging
From Wired: "Researchers simulated the effects of trauma on three-dimensional computer models of normal and wrinkle-free brains. In the smooth models, almost every brain structure, from brain stem to frontal lobe, was more vulnerable to damage. Our brains appear to have a built-in crumple zone." (8/18/09)
From Wired: "Researchers simulated the effects of trauma on three-dimensional computer models of normal and wrinkle-free brains. In the smooth models, almost every brain structure, from brain stem to frontal lobe, was more vulnerable to damage. Our brains appear to have a built-in crumple zone." (8/18/09)
G-Tube Feedings and Dentistry
From Pedaling Backwards: "My 11 year old daughter is fed 100% of her calories via g-tube, but she does drink water every day. It is unlikely she will ever have cavities because of the absence of food in her mouth.However, we still go to the dentist at LEAST once a year and we brush her teeth daily." (8/2/09)
From Pedaling Backwards: "My 11 year old daughter is fed 100% of her calories via g-tube, but she does drink water every day. It is unlikely she will ever have cavities because of the absence of food in her mouth.However, we still go to the dentist at LEAST once a year and we brush her teeth daily." (8/2/09)
Would You Turn Blue for Reduced Spinal Cord Injury Complications?
From Spinal Cord Injury: "Researchers from the University of Rochester in Rochester, New York have discovered that injecting large amounts of the food dye Blue Dye No. 1 into rats shortly after spinal injuries reduces the chances for paralysis and other spinal injury complications. There is a catch, however; the injection of the dye made the rats turn blue." (7/31/09)
From Spinal Cord Injury: "Researchers from the University of Rochester in Rochester, New York have discovered that injecting large amounts of the food dye Blue Dye No. 1 into rats shortly after spinal injuries reduces the chances for paralysis and other spinal injury complications. There is a catch, however; the injection of the dye made the rats turn blue." (7/31/09)
Experimental treatment halts hypoxic-ischemic brain injury in newborns
From Science Blog: "Inhibiting an enzyme in the brains of newborns suffering from oxygen and blood flow deprivation stops a type of brain damage that is a leading cause of cerebral palsy, mental retardation and death, according to researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center." (7/30/09)
From Science Blog: "Inhibiting an enzyme in the brains of newborns suffering from oxygen and blood flow deprivation stops a type of brain damage that is a leading cause of cerebral palsy, mental retardation and death, according to researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center." (7/30/09)
Same blue dye in M&Ms linked to reducing spine injuries
From CNN: "The same blue food dye found in M&Ms and Gatorade could be used to reduce damage caused by spine injuries, offering a better chance of recovery, according to new research. Researchers ... found that when they injected the compound Brilliant Blue G (BBG) into rats suffering spinal cord injuries, the rodents were able to walk again, albeit with a limp." (7/29/09)
From CNN: "The same blue food dye found in M&Ms and Gatorade could be used to reduce damage caused by spine injuries, offering a better chance of recovery, according to new research. Researchers ... found that when they injected the compound Brilliant Blue G (BBG) into rats suffering spinal cord injuries, the rodents were able to walk again, albeit with a limp." (7/29/09)
Cognitive Therapy Helps Rehabilitate Injured Brains
From Spinal Cord Injury: "Recent advances in the treatment and therapy for traumatic brain injury (TBI) hold promising results for the 1.4 million in the U.S. with TBIs. Researchers hope to make cognitive therapy more available to patients who have suffered brain injuries from car and playground accidents, domestic violence, war injuries, and even simple falls." (7/24/09)
From Spinal Cord Injury: "Recent advances in the treatment and therapy for traumatic brain injury (TBI) hold promising results for the 1.4 million in the U.S. with TBIs. Researchers hope to make cognitive therapy more available to patients who have suffered brain injuries from car and playground accidents, domestic violence, war injuries, and even simple falls." (7/24/09)
Glycemic Index Chart for Common Foods
From About.com Type 2 Diabetes: "Sometimes it's hard to find the glycemic index for foods. This chart lists the GI for some common foods..." (7/23/09)
From About.com Type 2 Diabetes: "Sometimes it's hard to find the glycemic index for foods. This chart lists the GI for some common foods..." (7/23/09)
Brain develops motor memory for prosthetics, study finds
From Science Blog: "Stunning new research now reveals that the brain can also achieve this motor memory with a prosthetic device, providing hope that physically disabled people can one day master control of artificial limbs with greater ease." (7/21/09)
From Science Blog: "Stunning new research now reveals that the brain can also achieve this motor memory with a prosthetic device, providing hope that physically disabled people can one day master control of artificial limbs with greater ease." (7/21/09)
G-Tube Extension Tubes
From Pedaling Backwards: "When feeding via g-tube for medical reasons, extension tubes are used to connect the syringe or IV tubing to the actual g-tube button. Extension tubes are a bit expensive. I endeavor to make mine last as long as possible. There are two keys I have found to be important in this effort." (7/20/09)
From Pedaling Backwards: "When feeding via g-tube for medical reasons, extension tubes are used to connect the syringe or IV tubing to the actual g-tube button. Extension tubes are a bit expensive. I endeavor to make mine last as long as possible. There are two keys I have found to be important in this effort." (7/20/09)
Peter Singer: 'We must ration health care'
From Disability News: "Singer acknowledges that his argument will draw criticism from disability advocates, who say health care rationing implicitly discriminates against people with disabilities. The basis for Singer's argument is an economic measure called the Quality Adjusted Life Year, which measures disease burden by assigning numerical values to the quality and quantity of a life." (7/17/09)
From Disability News: "Singer acknowledges that his argument will draw criticism from disability advocates, who say health care rationing implicitly discriminates against people with disabilities. The basis for Singer's argument is an economic measure called the Quality Adjusted Life Year, which measures disease burden by assigning numerical values to the quality and quantity of a life." (7/17/09)
Can children outgrow chronic daily headache?
From Science Blog: "Most children who suffer from chronic daily headache may outgrow the disabling condition, according to research published in the July 15, 2009, online issue of Neurology. Nearly 1.5 percent of middle school children are affected by chronic daily headache, which includes chronic migraines and tension-type headaches." (7/16/09)
From Science Blog: "Most children who suffer from chronic daily headache may outgrow the disabling condition, according to research published in the July 15, 2009, online issue of Neurology. Nearly 1.5 percent of middle school children are affected by chronic daily headache, which includes chronic migraines and tension-type headaches." (7/16/09)
Girl's heart heals itself 10 years after transplant
From CNN.com: "Hannah's heart was failing and she needed a transplant. But instead of taking her own heart out, doctors added a new donated heart to her own when she was just two-years-old." (7/15/09)
From CNN.com: "Hannah's heart was failing and she needed a transplant. But instead of taking her own heart out, doctors added a new donated heart to her own when she was just two-years-old." (7/15/09)
Does your child have synesthesia?
From Leading to Learning: "Synesthesia occurs when the neural pathways between the five senses (sight, hearing, taste, smell, touch) interact with each other. It is as though people with synesthesia get an extra way of experiencing things that most of us are not able to use." (7/14/09)
From Leading to Learning: "Synesthesia occurs when the neural pathways between the five senses (sight, hearing, taste, smell, touch) interact with each other. It is as though people with synesthesia get an extra way of experiencing things that most of us are not able to use." (7/14/09)
Stroke in Children Rare But Costly
From HealthDay: "The incidence is not high -- between two and four per 100,000 young people annually, said Dr. Warren Lo, lead author of the report in the July 9 issue of Stroke, but there is growing concern about the cost of medical care in such cases." (7/13/09)
From HealthDay: "The incidence is not high -- between two and four per 100,000 young people annually, said Dr. Warren Lo, lead author of the report in the July 9 issue of Stroke, but there is growing concern about the cost of medical care in such cases." (7/13/09)
Why I am dreading the tracheostomy
From 5 Minutes for Special Needs: "Having to put in a tracheostomy will kill my freedom of being able to be in denial about what is happening to her. It will be a constant visual reminder every moment of every day that she is losing this battle with Gaucher's disease, that this disease is affecting her more and more." (7/13/09)
From 5 Minutes for Special Needs: "Having to put in a tracheostomy will kill my freedom of being able to be in denial about what is happening to her. It will be a constant visual reminder every moment of every day that she is losing this battle with Gaucher's disease, that this disease is affecting her more and more." (7/13/09)
Universal embryo test expected soon
From Disability News: "A universal test to check embryos for almost any genetic condition could be available in the UK within a year, British researchers say. Clinical trials are expected to start within months." (7/3/09)
From Disability News: "A universal test to check embryos for almost any genetic condition could be available in the UK within a year, British researchers say. Clinical trials are expected to start within months." (7/3/09)
Wheelchairs Of The Future To Be Controlled By Thought
From Disability Scoop: "If you think it, it will move. That's the idea behind new wheelchair technology from Toyota which responds to commands from a user's brain waves." (7/2/09)
From Disability Scoop: "If you think it, it will move. That's the idea behind new wheelchair technology from Toyota which responds to commands from a user's brain waves." (7/2/09)
CDC to reinstate booster shots of HiB vaccine
From Reuters: "The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said on Thursday it plans to reinstate booster shoots of a vaccine that protects children against bacterial meningitis. The CDC said in a statement it now believes manufacturers will have enough supply of the vaccine to resume giving a booster shot of HiB (Haemophilus influenza type b) to children aged 12 to 15 months." (6/26/09)
From Reuters: "The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said on Thursday it plans to reinstate booster shoots of a vaccine that protects children against bacterial meningitis. The CDC said in a statement it now believes manufacturers will have enough supply of the vaccine to resume giving a booster shot of HiB (Haemophilus influenza type b) to children aged 12 to 15 months." (6/26/09)
Health Tip: Preparing Your Child for a Medical Test
From HealthDay: "Medical procedures and tests can be frightening for both parents and children, so it's important that you're both prepared and calm. The U.S. National Library of Medicine offers these suggestions." (6/22/09)
From HealthDay: "Medical procedures and tests can be frightening for both parents and children, so it's important that you're both prepared and calm. The U.S. National Library of Medicine offers these suggestions." (6/22/09)
H1N1 and its Effect on Children with Disabilities
From Special Needs Rides: "New York City's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene puts into context why those with underlying medical conditions should take extra precautions to avoid the flu and should contact their doctor as soon as possible if they are found to have flu-like symptoms." (6/19/09)
From Special Needs Rides: "New York City's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene puts into context why those with underlying medical conditions should take extra precautions to avoid the flu and should contact their doctor as soon as possible if they are found to have flu-like symptoms." (6/19/09)
Parents, health workers differ "significantly" on ill babies
From Disability News: "A study in the current issue of Pediatrics reports that parents of premature infants place a 'significantly' higher value on their children's lives, regardless of disability, than do health care workers who are involved in neonatal care decision-making. (6/16/09)
From Disability News: "A study in the current issue of Pediatrics reports that parents of premature infants place a 'significantly' higher value on their children's lives, regardless of disability, than do health care workers who are involved in neonatal care decision-making. (6/16/09)
Medical Myths - Why We Believe What We Believe
From About.com Down Syndrome: "Do you think that the myths and misconceptions about Down syndrome are fading? What do you think could change people's attitudes toward Down syndrome?" (6/15/09)
From About.com Down Syndrome: "Do you think that the myths and misconceptions about Down syndrome are fading? What do you think could change people's attitudes toward Down syndrome?" (6/15/09)
Teen Diagnoses Her Own Disease In Science Class
From Slashdot: "While looking under a microscope at slides of her own intestinal tissue in her AP science class, Jessica noticed an area of inflamed tissue called a granuloma, which is an indication of Crohn's disease." (6/14/09)
From Slashdot: "While looking under a microscope at slides of her own intestinal tissue in her AP science class, Jessica noticed an area of inflamed tissue called a granuloma, which is an indication of Crohn's disease." (6/14/09)
G-tubes and Lubrication of Syringe
From Pedaling Backwards: "When a syringe is reused, the rubber end of the plunger frequently begins to oxidize or become tacky. This makes using the syringe a test of muscle strength and very frustrating. A very simple and effective solution for this problem is to lubricate the syringe." (6/11/09)
From Pedaling Backwards: "When a syringe is reused, the rubber end of the plunger frequently begins to oxidize or become tacky. This makes using the syringe a test of muscle strength and very frustrating. A very simple and effective solution for this problem is to lubricate the syringe." (6/11/09)
Japan urged to reverse ban on child organ transplants
From Yahoo: "Last year Sotaro Nakazawa died at the age of one. His father says two things killed him -- his heart disease and the fact he was born in Japan, which bans organ donations to those younger that 15." (6/11/09)
From Yahoo: "Last year Sotaro Nakazawa died at the age of one. His father says two things killed him -- his heart disease and the fact he was born in Japan, which bans organ donations to those younger that 15." (6/11/09)
Did a Crying Baby Cause 16 Year Old's Death?
From ParentDish: A teen with a rare heart ailment died after taking care of a pretend baby for a school course. (6/11/09)
From ParentDish: A teen with a rare heart ailment died after taking care of a pretend baby for a school course. (6/11/09)
Ryan Dempster's daughter has DiGeorge syndrome
From About.com Rare Diseases: "FOXSports.com reports that Chicago Cubs pitching ace Ryan Dempster's infant daughter Riley, born April 1, has DiGeorge syndrome. In DiGeorge syndrome, an infant's face, neck, and chest don't develop properly before birth." (6/9/09)
From About.com Rare Diseases: "FOXSports.com reports that Chicago Cubs pitching ace Ryan Dempster's infant daughter Riley, born April 1, has DiGeorge syndrome. In DiGeorge syndrome, an infant's face, neck, and chest don't develop properly before birth." (6/9/09)
G-Tube Recipes -- What NOT to Include
From Pedaling Backwards: "When feeding blended meals via g-tube for medical reasons, there are some foods to avoid. I have found that cruciferous vegetables are not storage friendly. This includes broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, kale, bok choy, and turnip greens. Onions and beans are also trouble makers, in my experience." (6/6/09)
From Pedaling Backwards: "When feeding blended meals via g-tube for medical reasons, there are some foods to avoid. I have found that cruciferous vegetables are not storage friendly. This includes broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, kale, bok choy, and turnip greens. Onions and beans are also trouble makers, in my experience." (6/6/09)
Another G-Tube Recipe
From Pedaling Backward: "For people with the medical need to be fed by g-tube, there is another recipe that works well and is VERY easy." (6/2/09)
From Pedaling Backward: "For people with the medical need to be fed by g-tube, there is another recipe that works well and is VERY easy." (6/2/09)
Many teens wired, caffeinated well past bedtime
From Reuters: "Caffeine-fueled teens are texting, Web-surfing and gaming for hours into the night, which is affecting their alertness and ability to function during the day, a new study in Pediatrics shows." (6/1/09)
From Reuters: "Caffeine-fueled teens are texting, Web-surfing and gaming for hours into the night, which is affecting their alertness and ability to function during the day, a new study in Pediatrics shows." (6/1/09)
Effects of child head injuries can last for years
From Reuters: "Their review found that compared with other children their age, children who'd suffered mild head injuries showed small, and 'frequently negligible,' differences in memory, attention and verbal ability in the short term. In the long term -- two years or more after the injury -- most children showed no significant effects." (6/1/09)
From Reuters: "Their review found that compared with other children their age, children who'd suffered mild head injuries showed small, and 'frequently negligible,' differences in memory, attention and verbal ability in the short term. In the long term -- two years or more after the injury -- most children showed no significant effects." (6/1/09)
G-tube Channel
From Pedaling Backwards: "That pathway between the abdominal skin and the inside of the actual stomach is called a channel. It is the pathway for the g-tube's stem to get the balloon into the stomach." (5/30/09)
From Pedaling Backwards: "That pathway between the abdominal skin and the inside of the actual stomach is called a channel. It is the pathway for the g-tube's stem to get the balloon into the stomach." (5/30/09)
Nervous system may be culprit in deadly muscle disease
From Science Blog: "The discovery for the first time shifts responsibility to the nervous system for the severe breathing problems experienced by infants with Pompe disease, a rare genetic disorder that causes extreme muscle weakness. Children born with the disorder usually die before age 2." (5/26/09)
From Science Blog: "The discovery for the first time shifts responsibility to the nervous system for the severe breathing problems experienced by infants with Pompe disease, a rare genetic disorder that causes extreme muscle weakness. Children born with the disorder usually die before age 2." (5/26/09)
Anoxic Brain Injury & Recovery
From Brain & Spinal Cord Injury News: "While treatment of anoxic brain injury depends on the cause, some of the more familiar methods include barbiturates to slow down brain activity, medications such as steroids to reduce swelling, oxygen therapy, hyperbaric treatments, and cooling techniques." (5/20/09)
From Brain & Spinal Cord Injury News: "While treatment of anoxic brain injury depends on the cause, some of the more familiar methods include barbiturates to slow down brain activity, medications such as steroids to reduce swelling, oxygen therapy, hyperbaric treatments, and cooling techniques." (5/20/09)
My Daughter Has Tuberous Sclerosis Complex
From momlogic: "Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a genetic disorder that causes tumors to form in many different organs, including the brain, eyes, heart, kidney, skin, liver, and lungs. It is like having epilepsy, autism, kidney and heart disease all rolled into one." (5/17/09)
From momlogic: "Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a genetic disorder that causes tumors to form in many different organs, including the brain, eyes, heart, kidney, skin, liver, and lungs. It is like having epilepsy, autism, kidney and heart disease all rolled into one." (5/17/09)
Educating Professionals for Better Diagnosis
From Autism - Change.org: "When we speak about 'education' and 'awareness' the emphasis is often on the general public, on school officials, or on parents. But education about autism is also important for the professionals who may be in a position to diagnose it." (5/15/09)
From Autism - Change.org: "When we speak about 'education' and 'awareness' the emphasis is often on the general public, on school officials, or on parents. But education about autism is also important for the professionals who may be in a position to diagnose it." (5/15/09)
Parents of Shrinking Baby Turn to Internet for Help
From ParentDish: "Parents of a 10-month-old baby girl are reaching out for help through the Internet, as doctors struggle to determine what is causing this otherwise normal baby girl to literally shrink before their eyes." (5/13/09)
From ParentDish: "Parents of a 10-month-old baby girl are reaching out for help through the Internet, as doctors struggle to determine what is causing this otherwise normal baby girl to literally shrink before their eyes." (5/13/09)
Organ Donation Policies Vary Among Children's Hospitals
From HealthDay: "More research, better adherence to recommendations needed, study suggests." (5/13/09)
From HealthDay: "More research, better adherence to recommendations needed, study suggests." (5/13/09)
Traumatic brain injury haunts children for years
From Science Blog: "Children who suffer traumatic brain injuries can experience lasting or late-appearing neuropsychological problems, highlighting the need for careful watching over time, according to two studies published by the American Psychological Association." (5/12/09)
From Science Blog: "Children who suffer traumatic brain injuries can experience lasting or late-appearing neuropsychological problems, highlighting the need for careful watching over time, according to two studies published by the American Psychological Association." (5/12/09)
G-tube Care and Pointers
From Pedaling Backwards: "Instructions about care of g-tubes was woefully short 9 years ago when Little Miss got her first one. Doctors, nurses, surgeons, hospitals all fell short in helping us know how to best manage a g-tube. I have learned many things." (5/11/09)
From Pedaling Backwards: "Instructions about care of g-tubes was woefully short 9 years ago when Little Miss got her first one. Doctors, nurses, surgeons, hospitals all fell short in helping us know how to best manage a g-tube. I have learned many things." (5/11/09)
Kids seem to have an activity set-point
From Reuters: "The results suggest that children who participate in several hours of physical education each week at school compensate by being less active at home. Conversely, the children with the fewest hours of physical education are more active at home." (5/8/09)
From Reuters: "The results suggest that children who participate in several hours of physical education each week at school compensate by being less active at home. Conversely, the children with the fewest hours of physical education are more active at home." (5/8/09)
Managing Fear in Medical Emergencies
From Pedaling Backwards: "When our body, or the body of a loved one, signals trouble, fear arrives on the scene faster than an ambulance! Fear can be an overwhelming emotion, blocking our ability to make sound decisions and ask good questions." (5/7/09)
From Pedaling Backwards: "When our body, or the body of a loved one, signals trouble, fear arrives on the scene faster than an ambulance! Fear can be an overwhelming emotion, blocking our ability to make sound decisions and ask good questions." (5/7/09)
2 Hurt In Explosion At Hyperbaric Chamber Facility
From CBS4.com: "Francesco and his grandmother were both badly burned during specialized hyperbaric oxygen therapy that is meant to help him. Hyperbaric oxygen chambers are used to breathe pure oxygen while under increased air pressure as a means to treat a variety of medical conditions." (5/3/09)
From CBS4.com: "Francesco and his grandmother were both badly burned during specialized hyperbaric oxygen therapy that is meant to help him. Hyperbaric oxygen chambers are used to breathe pure oxygen while under increased air pressure as a means to treat a variety of medical conditions." (5/3/09)
New Pediatric Palliative Care and Hospice Standards Released
From About.com Palliative Care: "Currently, only 10-20% of dying children receive hospice or palliative care services. The reasons for the lack of hospice care are numerous and varied but one major stumbling block is the lack of pediatric palliative care and hospice programs." (4/28/09)
From About.com Palliative Care: "Currently, only 10-20% of dying children receive hospice or palliative care services. The reasons for the lack of hospice care are numerous and varied but one major stumbling block is the lack of pediatric palliative care and hospice programs." (4/28/09)
Study suggests two causes for bowel disease in infants
From Science Blog: "The findings could lead to a better understanding of the disease and its medical management, and also shed light on the causes of sepsis, a major killer of children and young adults." (4/27/09)
From Science Blog: "The findings could lead to a better understanding of the disease and its medical management, and also shed light on the causes of sepsis, a major killer of children and young adults." (4/27/09)
Pediatricians adopt new term for shaken baby abuse
From The Associated Press: :The nation's largest pediatricians' group recommends 'abusive head trauma,' calling it a more comprehensive diagnosis for brain, skull and spinal injuries associated with shaking and other head injuries inflicted on infants." (4/27/09)
From The Associated Press: :The nation's largest pediatricians' group recommends 'abusive head trauma,' calling it a more comprehensive diagnosis for brain, skull and spinal injuries associated with shaking and other head injuries inflicted on infants." (4/27/09)
Whiter laundry and a surprising new treatment for kids' eczema
From Science Blog: "Researchers from the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine have discovered powerful relief in the form of diluted beach baths. It's a cheap, simple and safe treatment that drastically improves the rash as well as reduces flare-ups of eczema, which affects 17 percent of school-age children." (4/27/09)
From Science Blog: "Researchers from the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine have discovered powerful relief in the form of diluted beach baths. It's a cheap, simple and safe treatment that drastically improves the rash as well as reduces flare-ups of eczema, which affects 17 percent of school-age children." (4/27/09)
Brain to Twitter interface
BBC - The Ouch! Blog: "It works using a special bit of headgear to read impulses from the brain. As letters are highlighted on the screen, the user focuses their brain when the correct letter is selected; to send a tweet they simply point their thoughts towards a special 'twit' button in the interface." (4/24/09)
BBC - The Ouch! Blog: "It works using a special bit of headgear to read impulses from the brain. As letters are highlighted on the screen, the user focuses their brain when the correct letter is selected; to send a tweet they simply point their thoughts towards a special 'twit' button in the interface." (4/24/09)
Brain-Twitter project offers hope to paralyzed patients
From CNN.com: "Wilson, a doctoral student in biomedical engineering, was confirming an announcement he had made two weeks earlier -- his lab had developed a way to post messages on Twitter using electrical impulses generated by thought." (4/23/09)
From CNN.com: "Wilson, a doctoral student in biomedical engineering, was confirming an announcement he had made two weeks earlier -- his lab had developed a way to post messages on Twitter using electrical impulses generated by thought." (4/23/09)
Twitter Offers Grieving Parents Solace and Solidarity
From Parent Dish: "Research asserting that social-media platforms erode our moral values was roundly proven wrong last week, after thousands of Twitter members rallied around two mothers whose children unexpectedly passed away." (4/18/09)
From Parent Dish: "Research asserting that social-media platforms erode our moral values was roundly proven wrong last week, after thousands of Twitter members rallied around two mothers whose children unexpectedly passed away." (4/18/09)
FL Senator Mike Bennett Proposes Bill for Parental Vaccination Choice
From Age of Autism: "A bill proposed by state Sen. Mike Bennett, R-Bradenton, would allow parents the option to choose a vaccination schedule for their children as long as all shots required by the health department are completed before entering school." (4/15/09)
From Age of Autism: "A bill proposed by state Sen. Mike Bennett, R-Bradenton, would allow parents the option to choose a vaccination schedule for their children as long as all shots required by the health department are completed before entering school." (4/15/09)
A Mother's Nightmare Becomes a Campaign
From the Washington Post: "Sanders is director of Shaken Baby Prevention. The nonprofit group pays for children with special needs to participate in various activities, such as camping and horseback riding. It has also provided wheelchairs, special needs bicycles and hand rails, she said." (4/13/09)
From the Washington Post: "Sanders is director of Shaken Baby Prevention. The nonprofit group pays for children with special needs to participate in various activities, such as camping and horseback riding. It has also provided wheelchairs, special needs bicycles and hand rails, she said." (4/13/09)
Editorials: Baby Kaylee case raises troubling ethical questions
Disability News is gathering opinions on the case of a baby who was removed from a respirator and expected to die, but is still hanging on.
Disability News is gathering opinions on the case of a baby who was removed from a respirator and expected to die, but is still hanging on.
Baby didn’t die; Dad not sure she should live
From Disability News: "Kaylee Wallace was born with Joubert syndrome, a rare brain disorder which can account for a wide range of symptoms of unpredictable severity. Wallace had been told that his daughter was going to die, and offered to donate her heart for transplantation into another infant. But Kaylee did not die when removed from a respirator." (4/10/09)
From Disability News: "Kaylee Wallace was born with Joubert syndrome, a rare brain disorder which can account for a wide range of symptoms of unpredictable severity. Wallace had been told that his daughter was going to die, and offered to donate her heart for transplantation into another infant. But Kaylee did not die when removed from a respirator." (4/10/09)
A mother's quest to cure Niemann-Pick
From About.com Rare Diseases: "Chris Hempel, mother of Addi and Cassi Hempel (pictured), has been on a mission to find a cure for Niemann-Pick disease type C, a disorder of cholesterol metabolism that damages the nervous system." (4/8/09)
From About.com Rare Diseases: "Chris Hempel, mother of Addi and Cassi Hempel (pictured), has been on a mission to find a cure for Niemann-Pick disease type C, a disorder of cholesterol metabolism that damages the nervous system." (4/8/09)
Spinal Cord Injury -What Teachers Need to Know
From Bright Hub: "A spinal cord injury can affect the ability of a student to participate fully in the daily activities of a school. Teachers play an important role in supporting students with spinal cord injury and helping them achieve their full potential in a safe, supportive and encouraging environment." (4/6/09)
From Bright Hub: "A spinal cord injury can affect the ability of a student to participate fully in the daily activities of a school. Teachers play an important role in supporting students with spinal cord injury and helping them achieve their full potential in a safe, supportive and encouraging environment." (4/6/09)
New evidence explains poor infant immune response to certain vaccines,
From Science Blog: "In the study, the MU scientist found evidence that the immune systems of newborns might require some time after birth to mature to a point where the benefits of vaccines can be fully realized." (4/1/09)
From Science Blog: "In the study, the MU scientist found evidence that the immune systems of newborns might require some time after birth to mature to a point where the benefits of vaccines can be fully realized." (4/1/09)
Doctors say kidney stones in kids are on the rise
From AP: "Doctors are puzzling over what seems to be an increase in the number of children with kidney stones, a condition some blame on kids' love of cheeseburgers, fries and other salty foods." (3/27/09)
From AP: "Doctors are puzzling over what seems to be an increase in the number of children with kidney stones, a condition some blame on kids' love of cheeseburgers, fries and other salty foods." (3/27/09)
Hassled teens may face high heart risk later
From Reuters: "Teenagers who experience a lot of daily interpersonal stress have increased blood levels of a protein linked to chronic inflammation -- which in turn might indicate a greater risk of heart disease later in life -- according to findings from a small study." (3/19/09)
From Reuters: "Teenagers who experience a lot of daily interpersonal stress have increased blood levels of a protein linked to chronic inflammation -- which in turn might indicate a greater risk of heart disease later in life -- according to findings from a small study." (3/19/09)
The Book Of Rare Diseases
From 5 Minutes for Special Needs: "There are hundreds of books that guide you on how to be a good parent. Each book has a different spin on our job, but the majority of them assume a certain path of development for our child. So what is a parent supposed to do when they are suddenly faced with parenting a child that doesn't fit any book's criteria or expected development?" (3/12/09)
From 5 Minutes for Special Needs: "There are hundreds of books that guide you on how to be a good parent. Each book has a different spin on our job, but the majority of them assume a certain path of development for our child. So what is a parent supposed to do when they are suddenly faced with parenting a child that doesn't fit any book's criteria or expected development?" (3/12/09)
Overweight Preschoolers Raise Their Heart Disease Risk
From HealthDay: "Study found they showed early signs of cardiovascular trouble." (3/12/09)
From HealthDay: "Study found they showed early signs of cardiovascular trouble." (3/12/09)
Is Your Child Hitting Her Milestones?
From Special Needs Bliss: "Not every child who lags behind in some area is a "special needs" child. Every child develops differently and at a different rate than his or her peers. But it is important to know, as parents, what could be a developmental 'red flag.'" (3/17/09)
From Special Needs Bliss: "Not every child who lags behind in some area is a "special needs" child. Every child develops differently and at a different rate than his or her peers. But it is important to know, as parents, what could be a developmental 'red flag.'" (3/17/09)
Brain Scanning Gives Clues to How Genes Shape Behavior, Disease Risk
From NIMH: "In an experiment in which people viewed changing images of slot machines, inherited differences in brain chemistry predicted the magnitude of responses in the brain to the prospect and receipt of reward. The work suggests how the subtle effect of variations in individual genes can shape behavior and contribute to risk of some mental health disorders." (3/9/09)
From NIMH: "In an experiment in which people viewed changing images of slot machines, inherited differences in brain chemistry predicted the magnitude of responses in the brain to the prospect and receipt of reward. The work suggests how the subtle effect of variations in individual genes can shape behavior and contribute to risk of some mental health disorders." (3/9/09)
Cleft lip and palate: Genes more important than thought?
From Science Blog: "Comparing 500,000 snippets of human DNA put scientists from the University of Bonn on the right track. A genetic variant on chromosome 8 occurs with significantly higher frequency in people with cleft lip and palate than in the control group." (3/9/09)
From Science Blog: "Comparing 500,000 snippets of human DNA put scientists from the University of Bonn on the right track. A genetic variant on chromosome 8 occurs with significantly higher frequency in people with cleft lip and palate than in the control group." (3/9/09)
Scoop Essentials: Coping With A Diagnosis
From Disability Scoop: "Receiving a diagnosis of a developmental disability is an emotional roller coaster for all involved. But the diagnosis is only the beginning." (3/9/09)
From Disability Scoop: "Receiving a diagnosis of a developmental disability is an emotional roller coaster for all involved. But the diagnosis is only the beginning." (3/9/09)
TMJ: Not Just for Adults
From iParenting: "During your child's dental checkup, the child's dentist might check for signs of temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ). Although TMJ is typically thought of as an adult disorder, children can exhibit early symptoms." (3/8/09)
From iParenting: "During your child's dental checkup, the child's dentist might check for signs of temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ). Although TMJ is typically thought of as an adult disorder, children can exhibit early symptoms." (3/8/09)
Mom Was Right: Eat Your Broccoli
From HealthDay: "Study finds substance in sprouts cuts inflammation linked to asthma, heart disease." (3/6/09)
From HealthDay: "Study finds substance in sprouts cuts inflammation linked to asthma, heart disease." (3/6/09)
Preparing For A Medical Emergency With A Medically Fragile Child
From 5 Minutes for Special Needs: "A very wise NICU nurse once told me, 'Sometimes the difference between life and death is in being prepared.' I took those words to heart and they saved my daughters life. More than once." (3/6/09)
From 5 Minutes for Special Needs: "A very wise NICU nurse once told me, 'Sometimes the difference between life and death is in being prepared.' I took those words to heart and they saved my daughters life. More than once." (3/6/09)
Flat feet don't impair kids' motor skills
From Reuters: "'We suggest that there is no need for treatment of flexible flat feet with the sole purpose of improving athletic performance, as traditionally advised by many,' the researchers conclude in their report in the medical journal Pediatrics." (3/4/09)
From Reuters: "'We suggest that there is no need for treatment of flexible flat feet with the sole purpose of improving athletic performance, as traditionally advised by many,' the researchers conclude in their report in the medical journal Pediatrics." (3/4/09)
Music Therapy On Rise For Children With Disabilities
From Disability Scoop: "Despite limited evidence of its effectiveness, music therapy is increasingly utilized to help children with disabilities. Music can offer a creative outlet while drawing on the strengths of those with autism in particular because it relies on patterns, music therapists say." (3/3/09)
From Disability Scoop: "Despite limited evidence of its effectiveness, music therapy is increasingly utilized to help children with disabilities. Music can offer a creative outlet while drawing on the strengths of those with autism in particular because it relies on patterns, music therapists say." (3/3/09)
All Scientists Have Conflicts of Interest (Duh)
Science Blog: "In a thoughtful and provocative piece in the The Wild Side blog at NYTimes.com, Stephen Quake takes up the issue of conflicts of interest in research. By 'conflicts of interest,' Quake means researchers who have a financial interest in the outcome of their research." (2/27/09)
Science Blog: "In a thoughtful and provocative piece in the The Wild Side blog at NYTimes.com, Stephen Quake takes up the issue of conflicts of interest in research. By 'conflicts of interest,' Quake means researchers who have a financial interest in the outcome of their research." (2/27/09)
Antibiotic-Resistant Meningitis Reported in U.S.
From HealthDay: "Health officials worry that overuse of antibiotics may be to blame." (2/26/09)
From HealthDay: "Health officials worry that overuse of antibiotics may be to blame." (2/26/09)
Does your kid hate Pedialyte? Try pediatric electrolyte strips.
From Parent Hacks: "They're like the dissolving breath freshener strips you pop onto your tongue, except that these are basically a flavored mixture of sodium and potassium." (2/25/09)
From Parent Hacks: "They're like the dissolving breath freshener strips you pop onto your tongue, except that these are basically a flavored mixture of sodium and potassium." (2/25/09)
Compounds that trigger beta cell replication identified
From Science Blog: "The study, based on screening large numbers of chemical compounds to see if they had any effects on the growth of insulin-producing beta cells, is the first study of its kind, and represents an important initial step in the possible discovery of regenerative medicines for type 1 diabetes." (2/25/09)
From Science Blog: "The study, based on screening large numbers of chemical compounds to see if they had any effects on the growth of insulin-producing beta cells, is the first study of its kind, and represents an important initial step in the possible discovery of regenerative medicines for type 1 diabetes." (2/25/09)
Vitamin D may protect against common cold
From CNN.com: "Vitamin D may protect people -- especially those with asthma and other chronic lung conditions -- from colds and other respiratory tract infections, according to the largest study to date to look at the link." (2/25/09)
From CNN.com: "Vitamin D may protect people -- especially those with asthma and other chronic lung conditions -- from colds and other respiratory tract infections, according to the largest study to date to look at the link." (2/25/09)
Children With Hypertension Have Trouble With Thinking, Memory
From Science Daily: "Children with high blood pressure are not as good at complicated, goal-directed tasks, have more working memory problems and are not as adept at planning as their peers without hypertension, according to recent research." (2/25/09)
From Science Daily: "Children with high blood pressure are not as good at complicated, goal-directed tasks, have more working memory problems and are not as adept at planning as their peers without hypertension, according to recent research." (2/25/09)
Girl Gets Life Saving Transplant
From WREG: "Gracie suffers from Maple Syrup Urine Disease. A metabolic disorder that didn't allow her to digest proteins. She was diagnosed with the disease at 13-days-old." (2/24/09)
From WREG: "Gracie suffers from Maple Syrup Urine Disease. A metabolic disorder that didn't allow her to digest proteins. She was diagnosed with the disease at 13-days-old." (2/24/09)
Tumors Linked to Fetal Stem Cell Transplant
From HealthDay: "The tumors appeared along the brain and spine of a boy about four years after he began receiving the neural fetal stem cell treatment for a rare neurodegenerative disease, ataxia telangiectasia, that also weakens the immune system." (2/19/09)
From HealthDay: "The tumors appeared along the brain and spine of a boy about four years after he began receiving the neural fetal stem cell treatment for a rare neurodegenerative disease, ataxia telangiectasia, that also weakens the immune system." (2/19/09)
Coping With CMV
From WUSA9.com, Washington, DC: An interview with Lisa Saunders, author of Anything But a Dog! (2/19/09)
From WUSA9.com, Washington, DC: An interview with Lisa Saunders, author of Anything But a Dog! (2/19/09)
Newborn Screenings Now Required Across U.S.
From HealthDay: "The panel of tests checks for genetic, metabolic, hormonal and functional disorders, according to the organization. Many of the disorders cause no visible symptoms in a baby until after damage, often permanent, is done. Some of the disorders lead to mental retardation, and others end in death." (2/19/09)
From HealthDay: "The panel of tests checks for genetic, metabolic, hormonal and functional disorders, according to the organization. Many of the disorders cause no visible symptoms in a baby until after damage, often permanent, is done. Some of the disorders lead to mental retardation, and others end in death." (2/19/09)
Scientists probe link between IVF, genetic problems
From Disability News: "Scientists are using new techniques to explore the long-term effects of IVF on gene expression and developmental patterns, and are starting to find a somewhat increased risk of genetic disorders and birth defects." (2/18/09)
From Disability News: "Scientists are using new techniques to explore the long-term effects of IVF on gene expression and developmental patterns, and are starting to find a somewhat increased risk of genetic disorders and birth defects." (2/18/09)
Families grapple with choice offered by prenatal diagnosis
From Disability News: "Wolfberg analyzes the dizzying maze of statistics that surround prenatal testing. He says parents find the testing options and their interpretation to be 'unintelligible,' and their inability to provide definitive answers 'maddening.' Clinicians who are charged with explaining the results, he says, often 'don't entirely get it.'" (2/15/09)
From Disability News: "Wolfberg analyzes the dizzying maze of statistics that surround prenatal testing. He says parents find the testing options and their interpretation to be 'unintelligible,' and their inability to provide definitive answers 'maddening.' Clinicians who are charged with explaining the results, he says, often 'don't entirely get it.'" (2/15/09)
Obese Moms More Likely to Have Babies With Birth Defects
From HealthDay: "But researchers note risk is still small and pounds can be shed before conception." (2/11/09)
From HealthDay: "But researchers note risk is still small and pounds can be shed before conception." (2/11/09)
Kids a possibility for girls with Turner syndrome
From Reuters: "Girls born with a genetic defect that leads to infertility may yet be able to have children when they reach adulthood, according to researchers in Sweden." (2/10/09)
From Reuters: "Girls born with a genetic defect that leads to infertility may yet be able to have children when they reach adulthood, according to researchers in Sweden." (2/10/09)
The Baby That Just Won't Grow
From ParentDish: "At 14 months, Suraya Brown weighs barely more than seven pounds and is only nineteen inches long. According to pediatric growth charts, she should weigh at least 20 pounds." (2/6/09)
From ParentDish: "At 14 months, Suraya Brown weighs barely more than seven pounds and is only nineteen inches long. According to pediatric growth charts, she should weigh at least 20 pounds." (2/6/09)
Motor development: Ten red flags
From Baby Center: "Here are ten red flags that may signal an early motor development problem. Talk with your toddler's healthcare provider if you're at all concerned or have any questions." (2/3/09)
From Baby Center: "Here are ten red flags that may signal an early motor development problem. Talk with your toddler's healthcare provider if you're at all concerned or have any questions." (2/3/09)
New Screening Test Can Determine If Children Have Swallowing Disorder
From Science Daily: "A simple test to swallow three ounces of water can help determine whether a child has the swallowing disorder oropharyngeal dysphagia, establishing for the first time a way to screen for the ailment in children." (2/1/09)
From Science Daily: "A simple test to swallow three ounces of water can help determine whether a child has the swallowing disorder oropharyngeal dysphagia, establishing for the first time a way to screen for the ailment in children." (2/1/09)
The Truth About Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome
From 5 Minutes for Special Needs: "And while most people have some level of familiarity with migraines, relatively few have ever even heard of cyclic vomiting syndrome, or CVS even though it shares many similarities with migraines." (1/30/09)
From 5 Minutes for Special Needs: "And while most people have some level of familiarity with migraines, relatively few have ever even heard of cyclic vomiting syndrome, or CVS even though it shares many similarities with migraines." (1/30/09)
Muscle and bone deficits seen in kids with Crohn's
From Reuters: "Children with Crohn's disease have deficits in the muscle and bone that are unrelated to steroid treatment, which can also adversely effect the bones, and these problems do not completely resolve with treatment, according to a report in the journal Gastroenterology." (1/29/09)
From Reuters: "Children with Crohn's disease have deficits in the muscle and bone that are unrelated to steroid treatment, which can also adversely effect the bones, and these problems do not completely resolve with treatment, according to a report in the journal Gastroenterology." (1/29/09)
Concussion's Effects May Linger for Decades
From HealthDay: "Athletes who suffer a concussion can experience a decline in their mental and physical processes more than 30 years later, according to a Canadian study that's the first to identify these kinds of long-term effects." (1/29/09)
From HealthDay: "Athletes who suffer a concussion can experience a decline in their mental and physical processes more than 30 years later, according to a Canadian study that's the first to identify these kinds of long-term effects." (1/29/09)
Got a doctor who's given you hope about your child?
From 5 Minutes for Special Needs: "While the older pediatric neurologist and the neonatologist kept telling us the worst, Dr. P. gave us hope. He said that babies brains are malleable. He advised us to get as much therapy as possible. ... He understood we'd just been through the shock of our lives. He was kind." (1/27/09)
From 5 Minutes for Special Needs: "While the older pediatric neurologist and the neonatologist kept telling us the worst, Dr. P. gave us hope. He said that babies brains are malleable. He advised us to get as much therapy as possible. ... He understood we'd just been through the shock of our lives. He was kind." (1/27/09)
When kids wheeze, steroids don't help: studies
From Reuters: "And an experimental treatment designed to prevent wheezing may be effective, but it seems to pose too many risks to be recommended, according to studies published in the New England Journal of Medicine." (1/22/09)
From Reuters: "And an experimental treatment designed to prevent wheezing may be effective, but it seems to pose too many risks to be recommended, according to studies published in the New England Journal of Medicine." (1/22/09)
Clinical trials: Unfavorable results often go unpublished
From Science Blog: "Trials showing a positive treatment effect, or those with important or striking findings, were much more likely to be published in scientific journals than those with negative findings." (1/21/09)
From Science Blog: "Trials showing a positive treatment effect, or those with important or striking findings, were much more likely to be published in scientific journals than those with negative findings." (1/21/09)
Surgery Checklists, Lives and Money Saved, and Patients' Responsibilit
From About.com Patient Empowerment: "A simple checklist that has little to do with medicine, and everything to do with communication and organization, can lower the death rate from surgery by more than 40 percent." (1/20/09)
From About.com Patient Empowerment: "A simple checklist that has little to do with medicine, and everything to do with communication and organization, can lower the death rate from surgery by more than 40 percent." (1/20/09)
Good Science, Bad Parenting - ParentDish
From ParentDish: "There's a controversy brewing in scientific circles, and it centers on parents using their own children as research subjects." (1/20/09)
From ParentDish: "There's a controversy brewing in scientific circles, and it centers on parents using their own children as research subjects." (1/20/09)
MRSA Infections Spreading to Kids in Community
From HealthDay: "Antibiotic-resistant infections around the head and neck are on the rise among American children, a new report indicates." (1/20/09)
From HealthDay: "Antibiotic-resistant infections around the head and neck are on the rise among American children, a new report indicates." (1/20/09)
Scientists find way to remove lead from blood
From Reuters: "South Korean scientists may have found a way to remove dangerous heavy metals such as lead from blood by using specially designed magnetic receptors." (1/19/09)
From Reuters: "South Korean scientists may have found a way to remove dangerous heavy metals such as lead from blood by using specially designed magnetic receptors." (1/19/09)
Chronically ill or disabled kids need exercise, too
From Reuters: "Children with chronic illnesses or disability can often benefit from the right exercise program, showing improved quality of life, greater aerobic capacity and better function, according to a report published this month." (1/20/09)
From Reuters: "Children with chronic illnesses or disability can often benefit from the right exercise program, showing improved quality of life, greater aerobic capacity and better function, according to a report published this month." (1/20/09)
Even Experts Don't Know what Brain Scans Mean
From Science Blog: "For some reason, many people find neuroscience more compelling than psychology. That is, if you tell them that men seem to like video games more than women, they are unconvinced, but if you say that brain scans of men and women playing video games showing that the pleasure centers of their brains respond to video games, suddenly it all seems more compelling." (1/16/09)
From Science Blog: "For some reason, many people find neuroscience more compelling than psychology. That is, if you tell them that men seem to like video games more than women, they are unconvinced, but if you say that brain scans of men and women playing video games showing that the pleasure centers of their brains respond to video games, suddenly it all seems more compelling." (1/16/09)
Diet, Exercise Cuts Kids' Risk for Metabolic Syndrome
From HealthDay: "Preventing obesity boosts blood vessel function even without weight loss, study says." (1/14/09)
From HealthDay: "Preventing obesity boosts blood vessel function even without weight loss, study says." (1/14/09)
Pediatric MS Tied to Higher Relapse Rates
From HealthDay: "They face three times as many episodes as those who develop disease in adulthood, study says." (1/14/08)
From HealthDay: "They face three times as many episodes as those who develop disease in adulthood, study says." (1/14/08)
New Clues To Mystery Childhood Illness: Kawasaki Disease
From Science Daily: "A study looking at the entire human genome has identified new genes that appear to be involved in making some children more susceptible to Kawasaki disease (KD), a serious illness that often leads to coronary artery disease, according to a new international study published in PLoS Genetics." (1/9/08)
From Science Daily: "A study looking at the entire human genome has identified new genes that appear to be involved in making some children more susceptible to Kawasaki disease (KD), a serious illness that often leads to coronary artery disease, according to a new international study published in PLoS Genetics." (1/9/08)
Help Alex!
The blog Mosaic Moments asks readers to help a teen with a mysterious syndrome find the answers that will save her. (1/8/09)
The blog Mosaic Moments asks readers to help a teen with a mysterious syndrome find the answers that will save her. (1/8/09)
Breathing problems beset kids born very preterm
From Reuters: "Children who were born much too early continue to have poor respiratory health when they reach school age, UK researchers have found." (1/7/09)
From Reuters: "Children who were born much too early continue to have poor respiratory health when they reach school age, UK researchers have found." (1/7/09)
Some kids leave ER without getting needed care
From Reuters: "Because of long waits, some children who are brought to an emergency room never get treated before they and their caretakers have to leave. A new study reports that, in the US, about 2 percent of children who visit an emergency department leave before they are seen -- about the same rate as among adults." (1/7/09)
From Reuters: "Because of long waits, some children who are brought to an emergency room never get treated before they and their caretakers have to leave. A new study reports that, in the US, about 2 percent of children who visit an emergency department leave before they are seen -- about the same rate as among adults." (1/7/09)
Preemies face some risk of psychiatric disorders
From Reuters: "Results of a Swedish population-wide study hint that children born prematurely have some risk of developing anxiety, depression or other psychiatric disorder in adolescence and young adulthood." (1/2/09)
From Reuters: "Results of a Swedish population-wide study hint that children born prematurely have some risk of developing anxiety, depression or other psychiatric disorder in adolescence and young adulthood." (1/2/09)
West Syndrome
From About.com Rare Diseases: "West syndrome is a form of seizure disorder (epilepsy) that begins in infancy. A specific type of seizure called infantile spasm is part of this syndrome." (12/29/08)
From About.com Rare Diseases: "West syndrome is a form of seizure disorder (epilepsy) that begins in infancy. A specific type of seizure called infantile spasm is part of this syndrome." (12/29/08)
Miracle children survive against the odds
From CNN.com: "A baby who never uttered a word touched the hearts of nearly a million people. A second-grader with so much courage, people around the world called him a hero. A 6-year-old boy who was never supposed to walk -- and now won't stop running. The stories of these miracle children can make you believe that anything is possible." (12/26/08)
From CNN.com: "A baby who never uttered a word touched the hearts of nearly a million people. A second-grader with so much courage, people around the world called him a hero. A 6-year-old boy who was never supposed to walk -- and now won't stop running. The stories of these miracle children can make you believe that anything is possible." (12/26/08)
Baylee Littrell Diagnosed With Atypical Kawasaki Disease
From Celebrity Baby Blog: The son of Backstreet Boy Brian Littrell "was initially 'treated for or thought to have' strep throat, hand, foot, mouth disease and erythema multiforme. However, after numerous medical treatments and procedures — including a biopsy, blood tests, an EKG and two echocardiograms — Baylee was diagnosed with atypical Kawasaki Disease." (12/23/08)
From Celebrity Baby Blog: The son of Backstreet Boy Brian Littrell "was initially 'treated for or thought to have' strep throat, hand, foot, mouth disease and erythema multiforme. However, after numerous medical treatments and procedures — including a biopsy, blood tests, an EKG and two echocardiograms — Baylee was diagnosed with atypical Kawasaki Disease." (12/23/08)
Robbed by rare virus, boy gets his voice back
From CNN.com: "Lesions in RRP (for the condition's full name, recurrent respiratory papillomatosis) are caused by the human papilloma virus, or HPV, the same condition that causes cervical cancer. An estimated 20,000 children and adults in the United States suffer from the disease." (12/24/08)
From CNN.com: "Lesions in RRP (for the condition's full name, recurrent respiratory papillomatosis) are caused by the human papilloma virus, or HPV, the same condition that causes cervical cancer. An estimated 20,000 children and adults in the United States suffer from the disease." (12/24/08)
Information About Rasmussen's Encephalitis
From About.com Rare Diseases: "Rasmussen's encephalitis occurs most often in children under the age of 10, but may also occur in adolescents and adults. It is estimated to occur in 1 in 500,000 to 1,000,000 individuals." (12/21/08)
From About.com Rare Diseases: "Rasmussen's encephalitis occurs most often in children under the age of 10, but may also occur in adolescents and adults. It is estimated to occur in 1 in 500,000 to 1,000,000 individuals." (12/21/08)
Study clarifies steroid benefit in pre-term births
From Reuters: "A one-time set of steroid injections for pregnant women at high risk of giving birth prematurely can head off major problems for the baby, but more injections give no further benefit, Canadian researchers said." (12/22/08)
From Reuters: "A one-time set of steroid injections for pregnant women at high risk of giving birth prematurely can head off major problems for the baby, but more injections give no further benefit, Canadian researchers said." (12/22/08)
Understanding CMV
From MyFox Phoenix: "A scary story about women who are pregnant. There's a problem we hadn't heard about until just last month. FOX 10's Keith Yaskin reports on a rare but devastating virus." (12/18/08)
From MyFox Phoenix: "A scary story about women who are pregnant. There's a problem we hadn't heard about until just last month. FOX 10's Keith Yaskin reports on a rare but devastating virus." (12/18/08)
"Blood Detectives" Documentary Friday 12/19/08
From About.com Rare Diseases: Among the patients profiled on the Discovery Channel special are "Alexandria, a 17-year-old girl with sickle cell anemia who suffered a 'silent stroke'" and "Ezra, age 6, who almost died in infancy due to severe, life-threatening anemia." (12/17/08)
From About.com Rare Diseases: Among the patients profiled on the Discovery Channel special are "Alexandria, a 17-year-old girl with sickle cell anemia who suffered a 'silent stroke'" and "Ezra, age 6, who almost died in infancy due to severe, life-threatening anemia." (12/17/08)
Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome
From About.com Rare Diseases: "Lennox-Gastaut syndrome is a severe form of epilepsy that usually begins before 4 years of age. It occurs in about 0.3 in 1,000 live births and affects boys slightly more than girls." (12/14/08)
From About.com Rare Diseases: "Lennox-Gastaut syndrome is a severe form of epilepsy that usually begins before 4 years of age. It occurs in about 0.3 in 1,000 live births and affects boys slightly more than girls." (12/14/08)
Genetic Test For Spinal Muscular Atrophy
From Science Daily: "Carrier screening for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) -- a serious genetic disease affecting approximately 1 in 10,000 infants that causes progressive muscle weakness and death -- should be made available to all families, according to a new practice guideline issued by the American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG)." (12/10/08)
From Science Daily: "Carrier screening for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) -- a serious genetic disease affecting approximately 1 in 10,000 infants that causes progressive muscle weakness and death -- should be made available to all families, according to a new practice guideline issued by the American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG)." (12/10/08)
Ultrasound Screening Helps Prevent Stroke In Children With Sickle Cell
From Science Daily: "Screening with an ultrasound machine has proved highly successful in preventing stroke among children with sickle cell disease, by identifying children who are then preventively treated with blood transfusions." (12/7/08)
From Science Daily: "Screening with an ultrasound machine has proved highly successful in preventing stroke among children with sickle cell disease, by identifying children who are then preventively treated with blood transfusions." (12/7/08)
National Aplastic Anemia & MDS Awareness Week
From About.com Rare Diseases: "December 1-7, 2008, is National Aplastic Anemia and Myelodysplastic Syndrome Awareness Week." (12/3/08)
From About.com Rare Diseases: "December 1-7, 2008, is National Aplastic Anemia and Myelodysplastic Syndrome Awareness Week." (12/3/08)
Would you save a life if you could?
From 5 Minutes for Special Needs: "My husband and I are both on the [bone marrow] registry and I pray that someday I will be a match. No matter how painful (and I've had a bone marrow aspiration, it's not pleasant, I won't lie) or how inconvenient it might possibly be, I can never truly contemplate past the knowledge that I could be the one to stand between life and death for another person." (12/1/08)
From 5 Minutes for Special Needs: "My husband and I are both on the [bone marrow] registry and I pray that someday I will be a match. No matter how painful (and I've had a bone marrow aspiration, it's not pleasant, I won't lie) or how inconvenient it might possibly be, I can never truly contemplate past the knowledge that I could be the one to stand between life and death for another person." (12/1/08)
Hairspray Exposure Ups Risk for Birth Defect in Sons
From HealthDay: "Stylists, beauticians may be affected by phthalates in these products, experts say." (11/28/08)
From HealthDay: "Stylists, beauticians may be affected by phthalates in these products, experts say." (11/28/08)
Longer Life For HIV Kids, But What Future?
From NPR: "There's a new generation of HIV-positive children who are reaching their teen years, but one 14-year-old girl in Washington, D.C., is finding out that living longer with HIV comes with a price." (11/30/08)
From NPR: "There's a new generation of HIV-positive children who are reaching their teen years, but one 14-year-old girl in Washington, D.C., is finding out that living longer with HIV comes with a price." (11/30/08)
Beware of Toxic Toys This Holiday Season
From HealthDay: "Dangerous chemicals make some playthings unfit for kids, report claims." (11/29/08)
From HealthDay: "Dangerous chemicals make some playthings unfit for kids, report claims." (11/29/08)
Hair Beads Spurring Head Trauma in Kids
From HealthDay: "And hard plastic versions often aren't visible on CT scans, experts note." (11/26/08)
From HealthDay: "And hard plastic versions often aren't visible on CT scans, experts note." (11/26/08)
Low birth weight ups risk of infant skin tumors
From MSNBC: "The incidence of reddish skin tumors called infantile hemangiomas has grown in recent years, and low birth weight is the leading risk factor driving the increase, new research suggests." (11/26/08)
From MSNBC: "The incidence of reddish skin tumors called infantile hemangiomas has grown in recent years, and low birth weight is the leading risk factor driving the increase, new research suggests." (11/26/08)
Teen Lives Four Months Without a Heart!
From ParentDish: "Thanks to a life saving machine that pumped her blood, the fourteen-year-old is the first confirmed child in history to live for that long a period of time without a heart. Simmons suffered from dilated cardiomyopathy." (11/26/08)
From ParentDish: "Thanks to a life saving machine that pumped her blood, the fourteen-year-old is the first confirmed child in history to live for that long a period of time without a heart. Simmons suffered from dilated cardiomyopathy." (11/26/08)
Effects of being born small extend to adulthood
From Reuters: "Children born 'small for gestational age' -- that is, significantly smaller than most babies born after the same number of weeks of pregnancy -- appear to be at increased risk for rapid gains in weight and body fat during adulthood, researchers from Paris, France report." (11/22/08)
From Reuters: "Children born 'small for gestational age' -- that is, significantly smaller than most babies born after the same number of weeks of pregnancy -- appear to be at increased risk for rapid gains in weight and body fat during adulthood, researchers from Paris, France report." (11/22/08)
Parent Smoking During Pregnancy Raises Kids' Heart Risks
From HealthDay: "More carotid artery thickening in these young adults points to danger, study finds." (11/21/08)
From HealthDay: "More carotid artery thickening in these young adults points to danger, study finds." (11/21/08)
Boy's Rare Illness Leads to Challenges, Hope
From ParentDish: "Thus began a journey through a parent's worst nightmare. Doctors found a tumor the size of a softball in Jonah's brain and ordered surgery to remove it the very next day." (11/20/08)
From ParentDish: "Thus began a journey through a parent's worst nightmare. Doctors found a tumor the size of a softball in Jonah's brain and ordered surgery to remove it the very next day." (11/20/08)
Why Is Getting A Rare Disease Diagnosis So Difficult?
From About.com Rare Diseases: "Getting a correct diagnosis is often a major challenge for someone who has a rare disease. Many people are unable to get a diagnosis, are misdiagnosed or have one diagnosis then another. There are many reasons why getting a rare disease diagnosis can be a long, frustrating experience." (11/18/08)
From About.com Rare Diseases: "Getting a correct diagnosis is often a major challenge for someone who has a rare disease. Many people are unable to get a diagnosis, are misdiagnosed or have one diagnosis then another. There are many reasons why getting a rare disease diagnosis can be a long, frustrating experience." (11/18/08)
Birth Defects Tied to Fertility Techniques
From the New York Times: "The defects included heart problems, cleft lip, cleft palate and abnormalities in the esophagus or rectum. But those conditions are rare to begin with, generally occurring no more than once in 700 births, so the overall risk was still low, even after the fertility treatments." (11/18/08)
From the New York Times: "The defects included heart problems, cleft lip, cleft palate and abnormalities in the esophagus or rectum. But those conditions are rare to begin with, generally occurring no more than once in 700 births, so the overall risk was still low, even after the fertility treatments." (11/18/08)
Unique Bone Marrow Transplant Said to Cure Sickle Cell
From HealthDay: "Technique is safe and effective, say Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh researchers." (11/15/08)
From HealthDay: "Technique is safe and effective, say Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh researchers." (11/15/08)
13-year old says no to heart transplant surgery
From MSNBC: "Hannah Jones, 13, is not afraid of dying -- she is afraid of spending her remaining days in a hospital bed. In a case that raises a host of medical and ethical issues, the British teenager from a small town northwest of London has won a battle to refuse a heart transplant operation." (11/12/08)
From MSNBC: "Hannah Jones, 13, is not afraid of dying -- she is afraid of spending her remaining days in a hospital bed. In a case that raises a host of medical and ethical issues, the British teenager from a small town northwest of London has won a battle to refuse a heart transplant operation." (11/12/08)
Minority Children Waiting For Transplants Have Higher Death Rates
From Science Daily: "Minority children awaiting a donor heart for transplant have a higher death rate than white children, even after controlling for clinical risk factors, according to research presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2008." (11/12/08)
From Science Daily: "Minority children awaiting a donor heart for transplant have a higher death rate than white children, even after controlling for clinical risk factors, according to research presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2008." (11/12/08)
Rerouting urinary nerves may help spina bifida
From AP: "It's a delicate and daring experiment: Could doctors switch a leg nerve to make it operate the bladder instead? Families of a few U.S. children whose spina bifida robs them of the bladder control that most people take for granted dared to try the procedure - and early results suggest the surgery indeed may help, in at least some patients." (11/11/08)
From AP: "It's a delicate and daring experiment: Could doctors switch a leg nerve to make it operate the bladder instead? Families of a few U.S. children whose spina bifida robs them of the bladder control that most people take for granted dared to try the procedure - and early results suggest the surgery indeed may help, in at least some patients." (11/11/08)
Coarctation Of The Aorta
From About.com Rare Diseases: "Coarctation of the aortaCoarctation of the aorta occurs in 5-8% of children who are born with heart defects (called congenital heart disease). It occurs twice as often in boys as in girls. It is usually diagnosed in children and adults under age 40." (11/9/08)
From About.com Rare Diseases: "Coarctation of the aortaCoarctation of the aorta occurs in 5-8% of children who are born with heart defects (called congenital heart disease). It occurs twice as often in boys as in girls. It is usually diagnosed in children and adults under age 40." (11/9/08)
Conservative Jews battle hospital over life of brain-dead child
From AFP: Doctors at the Children's National Medical Center in Washington want to end treatment for Motl Brody, 12, whom they declared deceased Wednesday after brain cancer left him with no brain activity. ... But Brody's conservative Jewish parents, saying their religion does not define death in that way, are fighting to keep Motl on life-sustaining equipment. (11/8/08)
From AFP: Doctors at the Children's National Medical Center in Washington want to end treatment for Motl Brody, 12, whom they declared deceased Wednesday after brain cancer left him with no brain activity. ... But Brody's conservative Jewish parents, saying their religion does not define death in that way, are fighting to keep Motl on life-sustaining equipment. (11/8/08)
Coconut Oil May Help Fight Childhood Pneumonia
From HealthDay: "Symptoms eased faster when it was added to antibiotic therapy, study found." (10/30/08)
From HealthDay: "Symptoms eased faster when it was added to antibiotic therapy, study found." (10/30/08)
Breast-Fed Baby May Mean Better Behaved Child
From HealthDay: "Parents of youngsters who were breast-fed as infants were less likely to report that their child had a behavior problem or psychiatric illness during the first five years of life, a new study found." (10/30/08)
From HealthDay: "Parents of youngsters who were breast-fed as infants were less likely to report that their child had a behavior problem or psychiatric illness during the first five years of life, a new study found." (10/30/08)
Two Preemie Treatments May Not Help
From HealthDay: "Insulin, light therapy show disappointing results for the smallest babies, studies show." (10/30/08)
From HealthDay: "Insulin, light therapy show disappointing results for the smallest babies, studies show." (10/30/08)
Cold Urticaria
From Raising Special Kids: "Cold urticaria is an allergic reaction to exposure to cold that produces hives and swelling. There is a large variety of triggers that can set off this type of reaction for people with this syndrome, including cold weather, cold food and drinks, as well as swimming in cold water." (10/29/08)
From Raising Special Kids: "Cold urticaria is an allergic reaction to exposure to cold that produces hives and swelling. There is a large variety of triggers that can set off this type of reaction for people with this syndrome, including cold weather, cold food and drinks, as well as swimming in cold water." (10/29/08)
Should You 'Bank' Your Newborn's Cord Blood?
From WebMD: "The umbilical cord blood has a goodly store of stem cells, those magical immature cells which can reconstitute a bone marrow as part of transplant treatment (e.g., for leukemia, sickle cell or some metabolic diseases). To date close to 7,000 umbilical cord transplants have been successfully performed, with excellent results." (10/28/08)
From WebMD: "The umbilical cord blood has a goodly store of stem cells, those magical immature cells which can reconstitute a bone marrow as part of transplant treatment (e.g., for leukemia, sickle cell or some metabolic diseases). To date close to 7,000 umbilical cord transplants have been successfully performed, with excellent results." (10/28/08)
A Guide to Kids' Coughs
From Parenting.com: "The key to finding relief? Knowing what's causing the hack to begin with." (10/28/08)
From Parenting.com: "The key to finding relief? Knowing what's causing the hack to begin with." (10/28/08)
Teenager with spina bifida named 'best brave child'
From BBC News: "Despite undergoing 35 operations, the charity's judges said Miss Bewley charmed everyone with her 'stunning smile and sunny personality.'" (10/27/08)
From BBC News: "Despite undergoing 35 operations, the charity's judges said Miss Bewley charmed everyone with her 'stunning smile and sunny personality.'" (10/27/08)
Secondhand Smoke Worse for Children
From HealthDay: "Kids at higher risk, since they breathe in more air by weight than adults, study says." (10/21/08)
From HealthDay: "Kids at higher risk, since they breathe in more air by weight than adults, study says." (10/21/08)
Anesthesia may up kids' behavior problems
From Reuters: "A new study hints that young children who are exposed to general anesthesia may be put at significantly increased risk of having behavior problems or language or other 'developmental' problems." (10/21/08)
From Reuters: "A new study hints that young children who are exposed to general anesthesia may be put at significantly increased risk of having behavior problems or language or other 'developmental' problems." (10/21/08)
Why Most Published Research Findings Are False
From Slashdot: "Dr John Ioannidis bases his argument about incorrect research partly on a study of 49 papers on the effectiveness of medical interventions published in leading journals that had been cited by more than 1,000 other scientists, and his finding that, within only a few years, almost a third of the papers had been refuted by other studies." (10/20/08)
From Slashdot: "Dr John Ioannidis bases his argument about incorrect research partly on a study of 49 papers on the effectiveness of medical interventions published in leading journals that had been cited by more than 1,000 other scientists, and his finding that, within only a few years, almost a third of the papers had been refuted by other studies." (10/20/08)
Low Birth Weight Tied to Rise in Infant Hemangiomas
From HealthDay: "Each 1.1-lb. decrease boosted risk for benign birthmark ninefold, study says." (10/21/08)
From HealthDay: "Each 1.1-lb. decrease boosted risk for benign birthmark ninefold, study says." (10/21/08)
Toward An Effective Treatment For Spinal Muscular Atrophy
From Science Daily: "Scientists are reporting a key advance toward developing the first effective drug treatment for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a genetic disease that involves motor neuron loss and occurs in 1 out of every 6,000 births. SMA is the leading cause of hereditary infant death in the United States." (10/14/08)
From Science Daily: "Scientists are reporting a key advance toward developing the first effective drug treatment for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a genetic disease that involves motor neuron loss and occurs in 1 out of every 6,000 births. SMA is the leading cause of hereditary infant death in the United States." (10/14/08)
Kogenate FS Prevents Joint Damage in Young Hemophiliacs
From HealthDay: "The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Kogenate FS to help reduce bleeding episodes and prevent joint damage in children with hemophilia A, the most severe form of the disease." (10/11/08)
From HealthDay: "The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Kogenate FS to help reduce bleeding episodes and prevent joint damage in children with hemophilia A, the most severe form of the disease." (10/11/08)
Chili's raises more than $6 million for St. Jude!
From Life With My Special Ks: "Thank you! to everyone who went to Chili's last month! You helped make this huge difference for kids with cancer everywhere!" (10/8/08)
From Life With My Special Ks: "Thank you! to everyone who went to Chili's last month! You helped make this huge difference for kids with cancer everywhere!" (10/8/08)
Fans found to help prevent sudden infant deaths
From Reuters: "Infants who slept in a bedroom with a fan had a 72 percent lower risk of SIDS, also known as crib death or cot death, compared to babies sleeping in rooms without a fan ... This was regardless of sleep position." (10/8/08)
From Reuters: "Infants who slept in a bedroom with a fan had a 72 percent lower risk of SIDS, also known as crib death or cot death, compared to babies sleeping in rooms without a fan ... This was regardless of sleep position." (10/8/08)
Pediatricians Would Admit Error Only Half the Time
From HealthDay: "Doctors often don't disclose less obvious mistakes, even if they cause harm, study finds." (10/6/08)
From HealthDay: "Doctors often don't disclose less obvious mistakes, even if they cause harm, study finds." (10/6/08)
Acupressure seen to calm children before surgery
From Reuters: "Taping an acupressure bead between the eyebrows reduced anxiety noticeably in the children, compared to a similar sham treatment." (10/5/08)
From Reuters: "Taping an acupressure bead between the eyebrows reduced anxiety noticeably in the children, compared to a similar sham treatment." (10/5/08)
Doctors want FDA to halt cold medicines for kids
From Reuters: "Over-the-counter cough and cold medicines should not be sold for young children because they are unproven and can be dangerous, doctors and consumer advocates said on Thursday, despite objections from industry representatives." (10/5/08)
From Reuters: "Over-the-counter cough and cold medicines should not be sold for young children because they are unproven and can be dangerous, doctors and consumer advocates said on Thursday, despite objections from industry representatives." (10/5/08)
Ping-pong ball saves girl's life
From Parent Dish: A surgeon's quick thinking keeps a girl's liver transplant working. (9/30/08)
From Parent Dish: A surgeon's quick thinking keeps a girl's liver transplant working. (9/30/08)
Letter to Editor
From The Princess & The Monkey: "According to United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation, every 30 minutes, a child is born who will develop a mitochondrial disease. Each year, 1,000 to 4,000 children in the United States are born with a mitochondrial disease." (9/26/08)
From The Princess & The Monkey: "According to United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation, every 30 minutes, a child is born who will develop a mitochondrial disease. Each year, 1,000 to 4,000 children in the United States are born with a mitochondrial disease." (9/26/08)
Fish in children's diet cuts eczema risk: study
From Reuters: "Introducing fish of any type into the diet curbed the risk of contracting the skin condition by 25 percent compared with children who never ate it." (9/25/08)
From Reuters: "Introducing fish of any type into the diet curbed the risk of contracting the skin condition by 25 percent compared with children who never ate it." (9/25/08)
Leigh's Disease
The About.com guide to Rare Diseases has information on the inherited metabolic disorder. (9/21/08)
The About.com guide to Rare Diseases has information on the inherited metabolic disorder. (9/21/08)
More Kids Getting Kidney Stones
From HealthDay: "Proposed reasons include sedentary lifestyle, obesity increase, processed high-salt diets. ... Some children get the stones, because birth defects in the urinary tract put them at risk for urinary obstruction. ... Another subset of children is premature infants who form stones related to the medications they require." (9/19/08)
From HealthDay: "Proposed reasons include sedentary lifestyle, obesity increase, processed high-salt diets. ... Some children get the stones, because birth defects in the urinary tract put them at risk for urinary obstruction. ... Another subset of children is premature infants who form stones related to the medications they require." (9/19/08)
Head lice getting harder to treat
The little buggers are growing resistant to current medications. All the more reason to try <a href="http://specialchildren.about.com/od/medicalissues/ht/smotherlice.htm">smothering them.</a> (9/16/08)
The little buggers are growing resistant to current medications. All the more reason to try <a href="http://specialchildren.about.com/od/medicalissues/ht/smotherlice.htm">smothering them.</a> (9/16/08)
Why Join a Rare Disease Support Group
The About.com guide to Rare Diseases has some advice about support groups, and some ideas of where to find them. (9/14/08)
The About.com guide to Rare Diseases has some advice about support groups, and some ideas of where to find them. (9/14/08)
Tagless tees causing skin problems - ParentDish
They seem like a blessing for kids who hate the feel of tags, but according to Blogging Baby, they may cause trouble of their own. (9/7/08)
They seem like a blessing for kids who hate the feel of tags, but according to Blogging Baby, they may cause trouble of their own. (9/7/08)
Shop Smart for Preemie Essentials
On the blog Baby Cheapskate, a mom who's been there offers tips on what you'll need. (9/5/08)
On the blog Baby Cheapskate, a mom who's been there offers tips on what you'll need. (9/5/08)
My Secret For An "Ouch-Free" G-Tube
From 5 Minutes for Special Needs: A recommendation for Compounded Cholestyramine Ointment. (9/5/08)
From 5 Minutes for Special Needs: A recommendation for Compounded Cholestyramine Ointment. (9/5/08)
In the Forum: Gastrostomy Tubes
A reader shares some g-tube advice. (9/3/08)
A reader shares some g-tube advice. (9/3/08)
Try This Tuesday #7
From the blog 5 Minutes for Special Needs: Help with feeding issues. (9/2/08)
From the blog 5 Minutes for Special Needs: Help with feeding issues. (9/2/08)
Perfume during pregnancy- Next on the Do Not Use list?
From ParentDish: "Research on rats found that the reproductive system of male fetuses could suffer damage starting as early at eight weeks' gestation by some chemicals, including those found in many cosmetics." (9/1/08)
From ParentDish: "Research on rats found that the reproductive system of male fetuses could suffer damage starting as early at eight weeks' gestation by some chemicals, including those found in many cosmetics." (9/1/08)
Protecting Newborns From a Dangerous Threat
From MedicineNet.com: "Infants who contract Group B streptococcus before or during birth can be miscarried, stillborn, or die soon after birth. Those who survive often suffer permanent disabilities such as blindness, deafness, mental retardation and cerebral palsy." (8/31/08)
From MedicineNet.com: "Infants who contract Group B streptococcus before or during birth can be miscarried, stillborn, or die soon after birth. Those who survive often suffer permanent disabilities such as blindness, deafness, mental retardation and cerebral palsy." (8/31/08)
In the Forum: Son Pooping - No Diagnosed Disorders
Do you have any idea for this parent and her son? (8/31/08)
Do you have any idea for this parent and her son? (8/31/08)
In the Forum: Are You Struggling Financially?
Share your story of how you're holding it together, or not, in the new Finances and Future Planning folder on the forum. (8/31/08)
Share your story of how you're holding it together, or not, in the new Finances and Future Planning folder on the forum. (8/31/08)
Blood pressure pill works well in kids, study shows
From Reuters: "Hypertension is rare in young children, typically caused by underlying kidney disease or other secondary causes. The current study provides the first clinical trial results of a blood pressure-lowering medication in children younger than 6 years." (8/31/08)
From Reuters: "Hypertension is rare in young children, typically caused by underlying kidney disease or other secondary causes. The current study provides the first clinical trial results of a blood pressure-lowering medication in children younger than 6 years." (8/31/08)
New Steps Towards Spinal Cord Injury Recovery
From BrainandSpinalCord.org: "Researchers studying spinal cord injuries in mice found that chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan (CSPG) is needed for the repair of the neurons that will facilitate the regaining of movement, but after time, it actually hinders a full nervous system recovery." (8/26/08)
From BrainandSpinalCord.org: "Researchers studying spinal cord injuries in mice found that chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan (CSPG) is needed for the repair of the neurons that will facilitate the regaining of movement, but after time, it actually hinders a full nervous system recovery." (8/26/08)
Caring for the Critically Ill Child
The author of Your Critically Ill Child worries about the limits that may be set on technology-dependent children. (8/26/08)
The author of Your Critically Ill Child worries about the limits that may be set on technology-dependent children. (8/26/08)
Pancreatitis part 2
From The Special Parent: "Because the pancreatitis is an ongoing concern we are now having the exciting <rolling eyes> opportunity to change seizure medications. Oh let%u2019s be fair its also one of her 2 mood stabilizers as well because if it%u2019s got to be exciting we know how to do it RIGHT. <eyes rolling>" (8/25/08)
From The Special Parent: "Because the pancreatitis is an ongoing concern we are now having the exciting <rolling eyes> opportunity to change seizure medications. Oh let%u2019s be fair its also one of her 2 mood stabilizers as well because if it%u2019s got to be exciting we know how to do it RIGHT. <eyes rolling>" (8/25/08)
'Tongue computing' could help disabled
From AP: "Georgia Tech researchers believe a magnetic, tongue-powered system could transform a disabled person's mouth into a virtual computer, teeth into a keyboard -- and tongue into the key that manipulates it all." (8/25/08)
From AP: "Georgia Tech researchers believe a magnetic, tongue-powered system could transform a disabled person's mouth into a virtual computer, teeth into a keyboard -- and tongue into the key that manipulates it all." (8/25/08)
Laurence-Moon-Bardet-Biedl Syndrome
The About.com guide to Rare Diseases has some details on this inherited genetic condition. (8/24/08)
The About.com guide to Rare Diseases has some details on this inherited genetic condition. (8/24/08)
From the Department of Depressing Statistics
Turning the spotlight on stories about financial hardships and corporal punishment. (8/22/08)
Turning the spotlight on stories about financial hardships and corporal punishment. (8/22/08)
AmeriGlide Achiever Scholarship for Wheel Chair User
The HEATH Resource Center has the details about the $500 scholarship. (8/22/08)
The HEATH Resource Center has the details about the $500 scholarship. (8/22/08)
Red Bull gives you ... heart problems?
"After one can it seemed to turn the young individual into one with more of the type of profile you would expect to see with someone with cardiovascular disease," said one researcher. (8/17/08)
"After one can it seemed to turn the young individual into one with more of the type of profile you would expect to see with someone with cardiovascular disease," said one researcher. (8/17/08)
Seckel Syndrome
About.com's Rare Diseases guide looks at a rare form of primordial dwarfism. (8/17/08)
About.com's Rare Diseases guide looks at a rare form of primordial dwarfism. (8/17/08)
Early monitoring for infant skin tumors needed
Most hemangiomas won't need treatment, but a "significant minority" will (8/15/08)
Most hemangiomas won't need treatment, but a "significant minority" will (8/15/08)
Binge-drinking tied to birth defect risk
"Women who binge-drink early in pregnancy may raise their risk of having a baby with an oral cleft, a new study shows." And a pickled brain, too, by the way. (8/12/08)
"Women who binge-drink early in pregnancy may raise their risk of having a baby with an oral cleft, a new study shows." And a pickled brain, too, by the way. (8/12/08)
Father Finally Buries Son After 21 Years
What would you do if you wanted an investigation of your child's cause of death, and signing a death certificate would end that possibility? (8/10/08)
What would you do if you wanted an investigation of your child's cause of death, and signing a death certificate would end that possibility? (8/10/08)
Mom donates 100 gallons of breast milk
A mother mourning the loss of a child makes a unique donation to her memory. (8/10/08)
A mother mourning the loss of a child makes a unique donation to her memory. (8/10/08)
Henna tattoos - Dangerous beauty?
A warning about "black henna" includes a reference to the fact that a chemical in it, PPD, may interact with medications for diabetes. (8/10/08)
A warning about "black henna" includes a reference to the fact that a chemical in it, PPD, may interact with medications for diabetes. (8/10/08)
Managing Your Child's Migraines
The American Academy of Pediatrics has some tips. (8/7/08)
The American Academy of Pediatrics has some tips. (8/7/08)
Licensed To Asphyxiate
On the blog 5 Minutes for Special Needs, a mom explains about ostomy bags. (8/6/08)
On the blog 5 Minutes for Special Needs, a mom explains about ostomy bags. (8/6/08)
'Hygiene hypothesis' may be tied to bowel disease
Another good reason not to clean your house. (8/1/30)
Another good reason not to clean your house. (8/1/30)
A Patient at the Door With a Gun
Do a Google search on "cerebral palsy," and you'll find plenty of sponsored links for lawyers who can help you sue a doctor you blame for your child's condition. This Washington Post report looks at a mom who took a more direct approach. (7/31/08)
Do a Google search on "cerebral palsy," and you'll find plenty of sponsored links for lawyers who can help you sue a doctor you blame for your child's condition. This Washington Post report looks at a mom who took a more direct approach. (7/31/08)
Preemie lung problems may linger into adulthood
"Lung function tests performed when they were about 19 years old showed that 15, or 71 percent, had persistent respiratory symptoms, including wheeze, cough, and shortness of breath." (7/30/08)
"Lung function tests performed when they were about 19 years old showed that 15, or 71 percent, had persistent respiratory symptoms, including wheeze, cough, and shortness of breath." (7/30/08)
Prenatal cell phone exposure tied to behavior
"Another possible explanation for the observed association might be the lack of attention given to a child by mothers who are frequent users of cell phones." So either way, it's your fault. (7/30/08)
"Another possible explanation for the observed association might be the lack of attention given to a child by mothers who are frequent users of cell phones." So either way, it's your fault. (7/30/08)
Mom uses internet to diagnose daughter's disease
The most impressive part of this story is not that the mom found the information, but that she apparently found a doctor who took her research seriously. (7/21/08)
The most impressive part of this story is not that the mom found the information, but that she apparently found a doctor who took her research seriously. (7/21/08)
Top Health Concerns For Children in 2008
ADHD comes in ninth, tied with STDs. (7/21/08)
ADHD comes in ninth, tied with STDs. (7/21/08)
Parents sacrifice everything for dying daughter
I thought this was going to be about sinking all the family funds into finding treatments, but it's kind of the opposite: Parents who, knowing Sanfilippo Syndrome gives them very little time with their three-year-old daughter, have sold their house and put everything on hold so they can give her a lifetime of experiences and quality time. (7/18/08)
I thought this was going to be about sinking all the family funds into finding treatments, but it's kind of the opposite: Parents who, knowing Sanfilippo Syndrome gives them very little time with their three-year-old daughter, have sold their house and put everything on hold so they can give her a lifetime of experiences and quality time. (7/18/08)
Aerobic capacity lower in boys with hemophilia
But muscle strength's the same, according to a Reuters report. (7/17/08)
But muscle strength's the same, according to a Reuters report. (7/17/08)
Q&A: Adaptive Clothing
A good listing of links for finding adaptive clothing for people with disabilities, from BrianandSpinalCord.org. (7/15/08)
A good listing of links for finding adaptive clothing for people with disabilities, from BrianandSpinalCord.org. (7/15/08)
Medical costs for children with disabilities: Rankings by state
The Disability News blog tells of a study in the journal Pediatrics that tracks out-of-pocket health-care costs incurred by families of children with special needs. (7/15/08)
The Disability News blog tells of a study in the journal Pediatrics that tracks out-of-pocket health-care costs incurred by families of children with special needs. (7/15/08)
Mom's smoking tied to oral birth defects
"Norwegian researchers found that women who smoked more than 10 cigarettes per day during their first trimester were nearly twice as likely to have a baby with a cleft lip as nonsmokers were." Being around a smoker also raised the risk. (7/12/08)
"Norwegian researchers found that women who smoked more than 10 cigarettes per day during their first trimester were nearly twice as likely to have a baby with a cleft lip as nonsmokers were." Being around a smoker also raised the risk. (7/12/08)
only casual observations: Give Life
Janie's 12-year-old grandson is going to play in the Transplant Games, and that provides a good opportunity to think back to when he was a four-year-old who badly needed a new liver. (7/10/08)
Janie's 12-year-old grandson is going to play in the Transplant Games, and that provides a good opportunity to think back to when he was a four-year-old who badly needed a new liver. (7/10/08)
Low birthweight adults leave nest later
U don't know -- read this Medline article and tell me if it doesn't sound like a pretty good thing to have a child who waits longer to have sex and shack up? (7/9/08)
U don't know -- read this Medline article and tell me if it doesn't sound like a pretty good thing to have a child who waits longer to have sex and shack up? (7/9/08)
New guidelines stress heart screening for kids
Why your two-year-old's well-child check-up may now include a cholesterol test. (7/9/08)
Why your two-year-old's well-child check-up may now include a cholesterol test. (7/9/08)
InfantSEE Eyes to the World
InfantSEE offers free eye exams to babies to catch vision problems early.
InfantSEE offers free eye exams to babies to catch vision problems early.
Doctors report details of rare spasm-caused heart attacks in kids
"A report from Ohio doctors documenting nine cases over 11 years in kids as young as 12 says heart attacks in children are a rare but under-recognized problem." (10/1/07)
"A report from Ohio doctors documenting nine cases over 11 years in kids as young as 12 says heart attacks in children are a rare but under-recognized problem." (10/1/07)
ScienceDaily: Family Therapy Helps Recovery Of Seriously Ill Children
"Providing family therapy to seriously ill children and their families consistently enhances medical outcomes and increases the overall mental health for adolescent patients, family and treatment professionals." (8/23/07)
"Providing family therapy to seriously ill children and their families consistently enhances medical outcomes and increases the overall mental health for adolescent patients, family and treatment professionals." (8/23/07)
Preemies face risk of disability in adulthood
"Preterm birth confers a considerable risk for long-term impairment, according to study published in the journal Pediatrics this month." (7/9/07)
"Preterm birth confers a considerable risk for long-term impairment, according to study published in the journal Pediatrics this month." (7/9/07)
Parenting Special-Needs Kids Tougher Than Being Prime Minister
Leading a nation may be a tough job, but it's not as tough as parenting a child with special needs. That observation was made today by Tony Blair as he announced his upcoming resignation as prime minister of Great Britain. (5/10/07)
Leading a nation may be a tough job, but it's not as tough as parenting a child with special needs. That observation was made today by Tony Blair as he announced his upcoming resignation as prime minister of Great Britain. (5/10/07)
Doctors Accused of Breaking Law With
According to a CNN report, the Washington Protection and Advocacy System investigated the treatment done on young Ashley and concluded that it violated a state law forbidding the sterilizaton of a developmentally disabled child without a court order. (5/9/07)
According to a CNN report, the Washington Protection and Advocacy System investigated the treatment done on young Ashley and concluded that it violated a state law forbidding the sterilizaton of a developmentally disabled child without a court order. (5/9/07)
Study: Too Many Kids Dying in ICU
According to a report in Science Daily, researchers are concerned because the proportion of sick children dying in hospital intensive-care units is increasing. (5/2/07)
According to a report in Science Daily, researchers are concerned because the proportion of sick children dying in hospital intensive-care units is increasing. (5/2/07)
Hospital ID Badges Hotbeds of Germs
"If your child's in the hospital, you may be concerned about germs attacking through medical equipment or unwashed hands or other sick people. According to an Australian study, though, you should also keep a close eye on those ID badges dangling by a lanyard around the necks of all those doctors and nurses." (3/20/07)
"If your child's in the hospital, you may be concerned about germs attacking through medical equipment or unwashed hands or other sick people. According to an Australian study, though, you should also keep a close eye on those ID badges dangling by a lanyard around the necks of all those doctors and nurses." (3/20/07)
Study: Cell Phones Don't Mess Up Medical Equipment
Those signs forbidding cell phones in hospitals may soon be a thing of the past. According to a Reuters report, researchers at the Mayo Clinic tested a couple of different types of cell phone services around almost 200 different devices over the course of five months, and found no negative effects. (3/9/07)
Those signs forbidding cell phones in hospitals may soon be a thing of the past. According to a Reuters report, researchers at the Mayo Clinic tested a couple of different types of cell phone services around almost 200 different devices over the course of five months, and found no negative effects. (3/9/07)
Health care use predicts apnea diagnosis in kids
"Starting in the first year of life, children ultimately diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome have significantly more health care use than unaffected children, according to findings published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine." (1/18/07)
"Starting in the first year of life, children ultimately diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome have significantly more health care use than unaffected children, according to findings published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine." (1/18/07)
Spinal manipulation may not be safe for children
"A new research review suggests that chiropractic spinal adjustments in children carry a risk of injury, with sometimes severe consequences." (1/12/07)
"A new research review suggests that chiropractic spinal adjustments in children carry a risk of injury, with sometimes severe consequences." (1/12/07)
Disability community decries 'Ashley treatment'
"David is a young man with severe cerebral palsy. He can't walk, he can't talk, he can't sit up by himself, but he can blog. This week, David blogged about Ashley. 'Ashley's parents have committed the ultimate betrayal,' he writes. 'They have treated their daughter as less than human, not worthy of dignity.'" (1/12/07)
"David is a young man with severe cerebral palsy. He can't walk, he can't talk, he can't sit up by himself, but he can blog. This week, David blogged about Ashley. 'Ashley's parents have committed the ultimate betrayal,' he writes. 'They have treated their daughter as less than human, not worthy of dignity.'" (1/12/07)
Predicting Deadly Meningitis
"Doctors now have a set of guidelines to help them quickly decide which children have viral meningitis or bacterial meningitis, the more dangerous of the two spinal fluid infections." (1/3/07)
"Doctors now have a set of guidelines to help them quickly decide which children have viral meningitis or bacterial meningitis, the more dangerous of the two spinal fluid infections." (1/3/07)
Hospital clowns boost sick kids' spirits
"Medical clowning started more than 20 years ago at New York-Presbyterian, the brainchild of Big Apple Circus co-founder Michael Christensen. Clown "doctors" have since sprung up around the globe, from Argentina and Australia to South Africa and Turkey. Israel's University of Haifa started offering a bachelor's degree in medical clowning this year." (12/26/06)
"Medical clowning started more than 20 years ago at New York-Presbyterian, the brainchild of Big Apple Circus co-founder Michael Christensen. Clown "doctors" have since sprung up around the globe, from Argentina and Australia to South Africa and Turkey. Israel's University of Haifa started offering a bachelor's degree in medical clowning this year." (12/26/06)
For unlucky few, life is painless
"In a discovery that could lead to better painkillers, scientists have identified a genetic defect in children who cannot feel pain. Sound like a blessed way to live? It's not." (12/13/06)
"In a discovery that could lead to better painkillers, scientists have identified a genetic defect in children who cannot feel pain. Sound like a blessed way to live? It's not." (12/13/06)
Infant car seats might pose breathing risks
"Babies should not be left alone to sleep in car safety seats, especially if they were born prematurely, New Zealand pediatricians report." (12/8/06)
"Babies should not be left alone to sleep in car safety seats, especially if they were born prematurely, New Zealand pediatricians report." (12/8/06)
Child Stem Cell Recipient Heads Home
"Daniel Kerner's parents knew the experimental brain surgery was risky, but without it the 6-year-old surely would die. Last month in Portland, Ore., doctors for the first time transplanted stem cells from aborted fetuses into his head in a desperate bid to reverse, or at least slow, a rare genetic disorder called Batten disease." (12/11/06)
"Daniel Kerner's parents knew the experimental brain surgery was risky, but without it the 6-year-old surely would die. Last month in Portland, Ore., doctors for the first time transplanted stem cells from aborted fetuses into his head in a desperate bid to reverse, or at least slow, a rare genetic disorder called Batten disease." (12/11/06)
Hormone Imbalance Could Spur Some Bed-Wetting
"An imbalance in a hormone-like substance called prostaglandin could explain tough-to-treat bed-wetting in some children, Danish researchers report." (12/1/06)
"An imbalance in a hormone-like substance called prostaglandin could explain tough-to-treat bed-wetting in some children, Danish researchers report." (12/1/06)
Gordon Brown's son diagnosed with cystic fibrosis
Chancellor Gordon Brown and his wife Sarah have announced that their four-month-old son Fraser has been diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis. (11/30/06)
Chancellor Gordon Brown and his wife Sarah have announced that their four-month-old son Fraser has been diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis. (11/30/06)
Vitamin D deficiency common in children with IBD
"Children with inflammatory bowel disease have a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, according to a new study published in the journal Pediatrics." (11/27/06)
"Children with inflammatory bowel disease have a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, according to a new study published in the journal Pediatrics." (11/27/06)
Toddler's rare hereditary disorder mimics autism
"Not until last spring was Markie found to have Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome, or SLOS, an inherited metabolic disorder that blocks the body's ability to produce cholesterol. It's commonly characterized by malformations of the heart, lungs, kidneys and gastrointestinal tract." (11/24/2006)
"Not until last spring was Markie found to have Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome, or SLOS, an inherited metabolic disorder that blocks the body's ability to produce cholesterol. It's commonly characterized by malformations of the heart, lungs, kidneys and gastrointestinal tract." (11/24/2006)
Preemies at risk for behavior problems at age 5
"Very preterm or very low birth weight children are more likely to have behavioral and emotional problems when they start school, suggests a study conducted in the Netherlands." (11/20/06)
"Very preterm or very low birth weight children are more likely to have behavioral and emotional problems when they start school, suggests a study conducted in the Netherlands." (11/20/06)
Children born preterm need follow-up eye tests
"A new study confirms that children born prematurely (before 35 weeks gestation) run a higher risk of developing vision problems than children born at term." (11/17/06)
"A new study confirms that children born prematurely (before 35 weeks gestation) run a higher risk of developing vision problems than children born at term." (11/17/06)
Children showing hardening of arteries: study
"Children with risk factors for heart disease, including high cholesterol and diabetes, are showing signs of narrowing and hardening of the arteries, conditions normally associated with adults, a study said on Sunday." (11/13/06)
"Children with risk factors for heart disease, including high cholesterol and diabetes, are showing signs of narrowing and hardening of the arteries, conditions normally associated with adults, a study said on Sunday." (11/13/06)
Babies with low iron levels grow up impaired
"Children who had low levels of iron as infants grow up with brain deficiencies -- even if they get early treatment, U.S. researchers reported on Monday." (11/7/06)
"Children who had low levels of iron as infants grow up with brain deficiencies -- even if they get early treatment, U.S. researchers reported on Monday." (11/7/06)
Sudden infant death syndrome tied to faulty arousal system
"Babies who die of sudden infant death syndrome have abnormalities in the part of the brain that helps control functions like breathing, blood pressure and arousal." (10/31/06)
"Babies who die of sudden infant death syndrome have abnormalities in the part of the brain that helps control functions like breathing, blood pressure and arousal." (10/31/06)
Mumps activity in U.S. highlights vaccine importance
"So far this year, nearly 6,000 cases of mumps have been reported to the U.S. CDC, reinforcing the importance of the MMR vaccine." (10/26/07)
"So far this year, nearly 6,000 cases of mumps have been reported to the U.S. CDC, reinforcing the importance of the MMR vaccine." (10/26/07)
Baby Charlotte lives, but has nowhere to live
The baby whose parents fought to keep the hospital from removing life support is medically ready to go home, but her parents have split and are unable to care for her.
The baby whose parents fought to keep the hospital from removing life support is medically ready to go home, but her parents have split and are unable to care for her.
Many Kids Will Outgrow Migraines
"Many people who suffer migraines when they're children or teens stop having them when they become adults, says an Italian study." (10/23/06)
"Many people who suffer migraines when they're children or teens stop having them when they become adults, says an Italian study." (10/23/06)
Fatty Liver Disease Endangers 6.5 Million U.S. Kids
"As many as 6.5 million American children could have a dangerous condition called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), new research suggests." (10/3/06)
"As many as 6.5 million American children could have a dangerous condition called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), new research suggests." (10/3/06)
Gene Offers New Lead in Cleft Lip and Palate Research
"Researchers supported by the National Institutes of Health report in the current issue of the journal Science that a much-studied gene called SUMO1, when under expressed, can cause cleft lip and palate, one of the world%u2019s most common birth defects." (9/21/06)
"Researchers supported by the National Institutes of Health report in the current issue of the journal Science that a much-studied gene called SUMO1, when under expressed, can cause cleft lip and palate, one of the world%u2019s most common birth defects." (9/21/06)
Asthma may prompt sickle cell pain in children
"Painful episodes in children with sickle cell disease (SCD) and asthma are temporally associated with respiratory symptoms, doctors from St. Louis, Missouri, have noticed." (9/26/06)
"Painful episodes in children with sickle cell disease (SCD) and asthma are temporally associated with respiratory symptoms, doctors from St. Louis, Missouri, have noticed." (9/26/06)
Parents, kids disagree on JIA therapy adherence
"Children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and their parents are not always in agreement concerning adherence to medication and exercise, a survey shows. ... Parents tended to overestimate the difficulty children had in doing their exercises, the frequency of negative reactions to taking medications, completing their exercises and the level of helpfulness of the medication." (9/15/06)
"Children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and their parents are not always in agreement concerning adherence to medication and exercise, a survey shows. ... Parents tended to overestimate the difficulty children had in doing their exercises, the frequency of negative reactions to taking medications, completing their exercises and the level of helpfulness of the medication." (9/15/06)
Heart-defect kids do well with rehab
"For children born with serious heart disease, a 12-week cardiac rehabilitation program leads to improvements in exercise capacity that are 'consistent, substantial, and sustained,' cardiologists at Children's Hospital in Boston report." (9/8/06)
"For children born with serious heart disease, a 12-week cardiac rehabilitation program leads to improvements in exercise capacity that are 'consistent, substantial, and sustained,' cardiologists at Children's Hospital in Boston report." (9/8/06)
Anxiety before surgery complicates recovery in children
"Children who are anxious before surgery experience a more painful, slow, and complicated postoperative recovery, according to a Yale School of Medicine study published this month in Pediatrics." (8/22/06)
"Children who are anxious before surgery experience a more painful, slow, and complicated postoperative recovery, according to a Yale School of Medicine study published this month in Pediatrics." (8/22/06)
MRI Scans In Premature Infants Predict Developmental Delays
"A Washington University pediatrician at St. Louis Children's Hospital has found that performing MRI scans on pre-term infants' brains assists dramatically in predicting the babies' future developmental outcomes." (8/17/06)
"A Washington University pediatrician at St. Louis Children's Hospital has found that performing MRI scans on pre-term infants' brains assists dramatically in predicting the babies' future developmental outcomes." (8/17/06)
Eczema Brings Same Impaired Quality Of Life As Kidney Disease
"Children with serious skin conditions feel their quality of life is impaired to the same extent as those with chronic illnesses such as epilepsy, kidney disease and diabetes, according to research published in the July issue of British Journal of Dermatology." (7/24/06)
"Children with serious skin conditions feel their quality of life is impaired to the same extent as those with chronic illnesses such as epilepsy, kidney disease and diabetes, according to research published in the July issue of British Journal of Dermatology." (7/24/06)
New embryo test to screen for 6,000 diseases
"It will allow doctors to test for the first time a vast array of inherited diseases for which the specific genetic mutation is not known, such as Duchenne's muscular dystrophy (DMD) and some forms of cystic fibrosis." (6/19/06)
"It will allow doctors to test for the first time a vast array of inherited diseases for which the specific genetic mutation is not known, such as Duchenne's muscular dystrophy (DMD) and some forms of cystic fibrosis." (6/19/06)
Genomics Project Hunts Genes Behind Childhood Diseases
"The program will focus on some of the most prevalent diseases of childhood -- asthma, obesity and diabetes, among others -- as well as cancer, all of which are thought to involve the contributions of multiple, interacting genes." (6/8/06)
"The program will focus on some of the most prevalent diseases of childhood -- asthma, obesity and diabetes, among others -- as well as cancer, all of which are thought to involve the contributions of multiple, interacting genes." (6/8/06)
Girl's own heart takes over ten years after transplant
A Welsh 12-year-old with cardiomyopathy has made history by having the heart transplant she received ten years ago reversed, and surviving just fine with her own now-healthy heart. (4/15/06)
A Welsh 12-year-old with cardiomyopathy has made history by having the heart transplant she received ten years ago reversed, and surviving just fine with her own now-healthy heart. (4/15/06)
Kids with spina bifida benefit from new procedure
Seven children and teens with spina bifida have better bladder function thanks to a new procedure. (4/5/06)
Seven children and teens with spina bifida have better bladder function thanks to a new procedure. (4/5/06)
Using a child's imagination to conquer pain
Could guided imagery help children suffering from the pain and anxiety of surgery? Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center say it can. (4/1/06)
Could guided imagery help children suffering from the pain and anxiety of surgery? Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center say it can. (4/1/06)
Parents of terminally ill children at risk for suicide
The British Medical Journal reports this month on two stories of suicide, one attempted, one successful, in which grieving parents used the painkillers they had been given to ease the suffering of their child to end their own lives after that child's death. (3/18/06)
The British Medical Journal reports this month on two stories of suicide, one attempted, one successful, in which grieving parents used the painkillers they had been given to ease the suffering of their child to end their own lives after that child's death. (3/18/06)
Baby Charlotte's doctors again allowed to refuse treatment
The up-and-down saga of little Charlotte Wyatt has taken another downturn. (2/27/06)
The up-and-down saga of little Charlotte Wyatt has taken another downturn. (2/27/06)
Babies and children can have strokes, too
You may think of strokes as ailments of the elderly, but specialists report that they are becoming increasingly common among babies and children. (12/12/05)
You may think of strokes as ailments of the elderly, but specialists report that they are becoming increasingly common among babies and children. (12/12/05)
Sweet relief
What do you give your children when they have a bad cough? New research indicates you might be better off reaching for cocoa than codeine. (11/23/04)
What do you give your children when they have a bad cough? New research indicates you might be better off reaching for cocoa than codeine. (11/23/04)