For Heart Health, Focus on Risk Factors

MONDAY, Jan. 18 (HealthDay News) -- Treating multiple factors that contribute to heart attack risk is better than simply focusing on lowering a patient's cholesterol level, according to U.S. researchers.

Traditional Surgery Not Always Best for Abdominal Aneurysm

MONDAY, Jan. 18 (HealthDay News) -- In some cases of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm, minimally invasive repair could be more effective at saving lives than traditional open surgery.

Erectile Dysfunction Predicts Heart Disease

MONDAY, Jan. 18 (HealthDay News) -- Erectile dysfunction is a strong warning sign that a man might be at increased risk for heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular problems, a long-running study indicates.

Most Fast-Food French Fries Cooked in Unhealthiest Oil

MONDAY, Jan. 18 (HealthDay News) -- Most French fries served in U.S. restaurants are immersed in corn-based oil -- usually considered the worst oil for human health -- before they're fried, according to the authors of a new study.

Frequent Mental Lapses May Precede Alzheimer's

MONDAY, Jan. 18 (HealthDay News) -- Mental lapses among older adults occur more often among those developing Alzheimer's disease than healthy elders, new research finds.

Study Questions Need for Emergency Appendectomies

MONDAY, Jan. 18 (HealthDay News) -- Appendicitis doesn't necessarily lead to a burst appendix if the organ isn't removed quickly, U.S. researchers say in a new study that challenges traditional belief.

For Very Obese, Gastric Bypass May Extend Life

MONDAY, Jan. 18 (HealthDay News) -- Gastric bypass surgery could have life-extending benefits for most of the five percent of Americans who are very obese, a new study suggests.

Cost of Psoriasis Drugs Rising Faster Than Others

MONDAY, Jan. 18 (HealthDay News) -- The cost of treating psoriasis is rising faster than inflation, says a U.S. study, which also found that newer, biologically-derived treatments cost more than traditional systemic therapies.

Voice Control Needs Time to Develop After Cochlear Implant

MONDAY, Jan. 18 (HealthDay News) -- It takes time, but children who receive cochlear implants in both ears gradually learn to control the loudness and pitch of their voices, a new study has found.

Clinical Trials Update: Jan. 18, 2010

(HealthDay News) -- Here are the latest clinical trials, courtesy of ClinicalConnection.com:

Health Highlights: Jan. 18, 2010

Here are some of the latest health and medical news developments, compiled by the editors of HealthDay:

Self-Control Just Might Be Contagious

MONDAY, Jan. 18 (HealthDay News) -- If you spend time with people who exhibit self-control -- resisting the death-by-chocolate cake after a restaurant meal, for instance -- you can expect your own self-control to be pretty good, too, according to new research.

Federal Panel Urges Obesity Screening for Kids Ages 6 and Up

MONDAY, Jan. 18 (HealthDay News) -- A federal panel of health experts has issued new recommendations encouraging U.S. doctors to screen children aged 6 and older for obesity, and to offer them a referral to intensive weight management programs when necessary.

Parents Not Taking Concussions Seriously Enough

MONDAY, Jan. 18 (HealthDay News) -- Children who suffer a concussion don't just have a minor head bump, but a brain injury that parents, coaches and teachers need to take more seriously, Canadian researchers warn.

Newly Identified Gene Variants Linked to Diabetes

MONDAY, Jan. 18 (HealthDay News) -- Researchers have identified 10 new gene variants associated with blood sugar or insulin levels, which they believe could lead to new treatments for type 2 diabetes.

Health Tip: Applying First Aid to a Minor Burn

(HealthDay News) -- A minor burn can be caused by fire, steam, or a hot liquid or object, and can scald the skin. The skin may be painful, turn red, and blister or peel.

Health Tip: Prevent Injuries From Toys

(HealthDay News) -- Toys may be meant for fun and play, but toys in the wrong little hands can lead to serious injury.

Women's Natural Scent Most Attractive to Men

MONDAY, Jan. 18 (HealthDay News) -- Women who want to attract a man's attention shouldn't wear perfume, new research suggests.