Women in the UK who have soya-filled breast implants have been advised by the Department of Health to have them removed, as the risk that the implants could cause cancer or harm an unborn baby cannot be ruled out. The manufacturer of these Trilucent implants, AEI Inc, has announced it will cover all medical and surgical expenses associated with their removal or replacement. Although there has been no clinical evidence of serious health problems, some women have reported breast swelling and discomfort. (BBC Health)
Hangovers are far from harmless and it is not just heavy drinkers who are at risk, according to a review of medical studies of alcohol abuse over the past 30 years. More than 50 per cent of alcohol-related problems in the work- place (absenteeism and poor performance) are caused by light drinkers, and 87 per cent by light-to-moderate drinkers. Research suggests that hangovers can have cardiac, neurological and psychiatric consequences. One study showed a two-fold increase in the risk of having a heart attack during a severe hangover and others found cognitive abilities are reduced, affecting day-to-day activities such as driving and office work. A 1986 study of pilots who had got drunk the previous night found they put in sub-standard performances, despite not feeling hungover. --(Annals of Internal Medicine)
A Chinese herb which caused kidney failure in Britain and Belgium can no longer be imported into the US. The herb family is called aristolochia and the kidney-toxic ingredient, which is also suspected of causing cancer, is called aristolochic acid. Belgian doctors have reported 70 people who needed dialysis or a transplant after taking a Chinese remedy containing aristolochic to lose weight. In Britain last year, two people took the herb to treat a skin condition: one needed a kidney transplant, the other is on dialysis. For a list of plants the FDA is concerned about, go to www.fda.gov/opacom /hpwhats.html and click on dietary supplements. --(AP)
For many people who use drugs, maintenance - or substitution therapy - is regarded as a holding stage in the process of recovery. A one-day drug treatment seminar, "Beyond Maintenance", organised by the Irish Bishops' Conference, will look beyond this stage towards treatment which can lead to a fuller life. Speakers include Jim Cusack, security correspondent of The Irish Times, on the extent of the drug problem in Ireland and Anne Quigley of Citywide, on positive and negative community experiences. At Clonliffe College on June 27th, cost £10. Places are limited. For bookings: tel 01-8360911/fax 01-8360745/e-mail drugprev@eircom.net
Designer sunglasses offer no more protection from the sun than cheap sunglasses costing £1, according to UK Health Which? magazine. Researchers found cheap unbranded children's sunglasses reached the same British Standard requirements for blocking UV rays as £89 Calvin Klein shades. As long as sunglasses have the British Standard mark, they should provide enough protection from the sun, however little they cost, said the editor, Charlote Gann. Recent research has shown exposure to sunlight may increase the risk of developing cataracts, the leading cause of blindness worldwide.
lifelines@irish-times.ie