Controlling epilepsy: A radical diet can reduce seizures in severely epileptic children. Tests at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children in London have found that the ketogenic diet, based on high-fat food, can cut seizures in children resistant to standard anti-convulsant drugs by up to 90 per cent.
Take no chances
More than 40 people die from carbon- monoxide poisoning each year in Ireland. Most of the deaths are the result of house fires caused by faulty kerosene or gas heaters used in unventilated rooms and fireplaces with blocked flues. It highlights the importance of professional installation and maintenance of home heating systems.
Maternity-unit closures
Next Monday, May 5th - International Day of the Midwife - has been chosen as a national day of protest against the planned closure of maternity units in regional hospitals. To get involved, contact the National Birth Alliance on 01-8388168 or visit www.maternitymatters.net
Perils of snoring
One in 10 couples contemplate splitting up because of snoring, according to a British survey. Nasal strips, dental guards and singing exercises are among suggested remedies. As obesity and alcohol are the major causes of snoring, however, losing weight and avoiding alcohol close to bedtime are probably better ideas. Sewing a prickly hair roller to the back of your pyjamas, to discourage sleeping on your back, is another, more painful solution.
ME awareness week
The Irish support group for chronic fatigue syndrome is seeking volunteers to sell blue ribbons during ME awareness week, from May 10th to 16th. Call 01-2350965 or e-mail info@irishmecfs.org
Birth statistics
Most births are to women aged 30 to 34, according to an analysis of trends at the National Maternity Hospital, on Holles Street in Dublin. Births to women over 40 have declined from 6 per cent to 3 per cent of the total in the 30-year period of the study. Births outside marriage have increased from 5 to 29 per cent.