Health News
You May Already Be an Alcoholic!
The danger presented by alcoholism is widely recognized, but many people still overindulge. Now, the doctors charged with defining addiction may label many more of them as alcoholics.
The American Psychiatric Association is in the late stages of revising their influential rulebook : the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual . There are indications that the standards used to differentiate partying from actual addiction will be changed to the point where many college revelers, sports fans who imbibe, and weekend pub denizens will now have a medical diagnosis.
The new Diagnostic and Statis...
Quitting Smoking Priorities for Veterans
Veterans with a physical illness or injury are more likely to be told, ‘it’s time to quit smoking,’ than veterans with mental health disorders. All veterans need help to quit smoking.
Has Medical Marijuana Increased Usage?
Does easier access to marijuana mean higher rates of use and abuse? Or does a community’s attitude have more to do with people smoking weed?
Relapse Prevention is Your Best Bet
A new argument is being made asserting that continual treatment of addicts could actually lower their overall healthcare costs in the long run, despite the sometimes heavy cost of continual treatment.
Supplement to Help Quit Pot
A common nutritional supplement might help people who want to quit smoking pot finally be able to. N-acetylcysteine ( NAC ) taken while also attending brief drug counseling helped people kick the habit.
No Delay, Quit Today!
1-800-QUIT-NOW can link any caller in the United States to their toll-free state quitline . A 12-week ad campaign helped around half a million people try and quit smoking.
Addicted to the Action
The brain is more likely to act impulsively while trying to multitask. Inhibiting motor actions forces a person to concentrate only on one task and potentially make a better decision.
Alcoholism After Bariatric Surgery
One weight loss surgical procedure in particular is suspected to increase a patient’s chances of developing alcoholism two years after surgery. Good support networks and healthcare practices may help lower risk.
Cocaine Vaccine's Future
Scientists have developed a cocaine vaccine that uses the common cold virus to engage the immune system and blocks the drug’s absorption. Early stages of testing show great promise.
Alcohol During Pregnancy - Whats the Question?
To drink or not to drink? Such is the question for many expectant moms who would love to have that single glass of wine but worry about its impact on their developing baby.