Air Canada banning pets in passenger cabin
May 12, 2006

Air Canada will become the first airline in Canada to ban pets from its cabins, CBC News has learned... MORE»

murmur categories: travel, health

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism travel, airlines airplanes pets health allergies

posted by Tessa | 10:05 AM (ET) | Permalink

'Better for you' options are en vogue with food makers, but are they just a fad?
May 11, 2006

Whole wheat is in, chocolate bars and pop are out. At least that's the message from food makers and marketers amid concerns over childhood obesity and raising diabetes rates... MORE»

murmur categories: food, kids, health, advertising

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism food nutrition health diet children obesity

posted by Tessa | 12:03 PM (ET) | Permalink

Improve safety measures for drugs during pregnancy, Health Canada urged
May 10, 2006

Health Canada should change how it determines which drugs are safe for pregnant and nursing women, an obstetricians group says... MORE»

murmur categories: health

tags: consumers, consumer news, consumerism, health, pregnancy, drugs, medications

posted by Tessa | 18:36 PM (ET) | Permalink

Food giants crafting messages against bird flu panic
May 9, 2006

Some of the world's fast food heavyweights are carefully creating marketing campaigns to quell anxiety over the avian flu... MORE»

murmur categories: health/safety, food/drink, advertising/marketing

tags: consumers, consumer news, consumerism, avian flu, KFC, bird flu, chicken

posted by Tessa | 10:33 AM (ET) | Permalink

Disney getting out of Happy Meals over obesity concerns
May 8, 2006

Walt Disney Co. is breaking up with fast food powerhouse McDonald's; the studio is cutting its cross-promotional ties with the chain in an effort to distance itself from fast food and its links to childhood obesity... MORE»

murmur categories: food, kids, health, advertising

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism nutrition health diet school children obesity

posted by Tessa | 12:13 PM (ET) | Permalink

No cancer risk from aspartame, EU food safety panel finds
May 8, 2006

The sugar substitute aspartame does not seem to raise the risk of cancer, a review by European food safety experts concluded Friday... MORE»

murmur categories: food, health

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism aspartame cancer diet health food research

posted by Tessa | 10:41 AM (ET) | Permalink

U.S. schools to become pop-free
May 4, 2006

In an effort to combat child obesity, about 35 million students in the United States will no longer be able to buy regular soft drinks at school... MORE»

murmur categories: health, food/drink, kids

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism nutrition health diet school children obesity

posted by Tessa | 11:19 AM (ET) | Permalink

Long-term study says benefits of eating fish outweigh mercury risk
May 1, 2006

According to a new study, the benefits outweigh the risks when it comes to eating fish... MORE»

murmur categories: health/safety environment food/drink

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism environment fish food pollutants chemicals toxins seafood mercury

posted by Tessa | 11:11 AM (ET) | Permalink

Should you buy travel insurance?
April 28, 2006

It's the last thing most of us want to think of before we set out on that eagerly anticipated trip, but it's an unfortunate fact of travelling life that reality sometimes doesn't follow the posted itinerary... MORE»

murmur categories: travel, money, health

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism travel insurance health personal finanace

posted by Tessa | 10:21 AM (ET) | Permalink

One-third of drug safety advisers in U.S. show conflicts of interest: study
April 26, 2006

Industry ties are common among advisers to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's panels, but their votes wouldn't change the overall decision to approve or reject a new drug, a new study suggests... MORE»

murmur categories: health

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism medicine health FDA drug testing drug marketing

posted by Tessa | 9:33 AM (ET) | Permalink

Common pesticide linked to cancer
April 25, 2006

What you might be spraying on those pesky dandelions could be doing more harm than good... MORE»

murmur categories: home, health, environment

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism pesticides gardening Canada environment health toxins home

posted by Tessa | 9:40 AM (ET) | Permalink

Sun's rays more harmful this summer: experts
April 21, 2006

Catching some rays this summer could be more dangerous than ever this year, warn health and environment experts. They advise people that it's especially important to avoid too much sun or to cover up when it's bright outside... MORE»

murmur categories: environment, health

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism cancer sunscreen environment health

posted by Tessa | 14:06 PM (ET) | Permalink

This toxic life
April 21, 2006

Each of us likely has pollutants in our blood. A recent study analyzing the blood and urine of a small group of Canadians found varying levels of contamination from heavy metals, pesticides and other toxic chemicals (such as PCBs, mercury, lead). A similar study of 500 Canadians found the same results... MORE»

murmur categories: environment, health

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism environment pollutants chemicals toxins health consumer rights

posted by Tessa | 10:21 AM (ET) | Permalink

Lawn mowers injure many, study finds
April 20, 2006

Health experts are warning about the dangers of lawn mowers as spring approaches and brings the start of the grass-cutting season... MORE»

murmur categories: health, home

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism pesticides gardening Canada health house yard garden lawn mower

posted by Tessa | 11:28 AM (ET) | Permalink

No harm done by mercury fillings in kids: studies
April 19, 2006

Silver-coloured dental fillings containing mercury, a neurotoxin, do not appear to cause brain damage in children, two studies suggest... MORE»

murmur categories: health, kids

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism dental dentistry children mercury toxins

posted by Tessa | 9:38 AM (ET) | Permalink

Bad air days aren't just outdoors
April 18, 2006

It's so cruel – just as the weather gets warmer, the shorts come out of the bottom drawer and the sidewalk patios begin to fill with sun-seekers, the sludgy haze of smog that hangs over the city shows itself... MORE»

murmur categories: environment, health, home

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism pollution toxins environment green eco environment carcinogens chemicals

posted by Tessa | 14:02 PM (ET) | Permalink

Cold meds moved behind pharmacy counter
April 11, 2006

Popular cold medications are being pulled from some store shelves in Canada, to curb their use in the production of crystal methamphetamine... MORE»

murmur categories: health

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism colds flu medicine health

posted by Tessa | 11:46 AM (ET) | Permalink

More cancer screening could reduce deaths: report
April 11, 2006

More people would survive some cancers if screening programs were expanded and improved, according to a new report released Tuesday by the Canadian Cancer Society... MORE»

murmur categories: health

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism cancer health medicine medical Canada

posted by Tessa | 10:15 AM (ET) | Permalink

Is farmed salmon rotten or rosy in Scotland?
April 10, 2006

There's a divisive and embittered fish flap going on over farmed salmon in the Highlands of Scotland... MORE»

murmur categories: health/safety, environment, food/drink

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism environment pollutants chemicals toxins seafood carcinogens fish

posted by Tessa | 11:40 AM (ET) | Permalink

Ontario MPP wants to reduce legal fear over defibrillator use
April 7, 2006

Ontario politician Bruce Crozier has moved a step closer in his campaign to save lives by increasing access to automated external heart defibrillators... MORE»

murmur categories: health

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism health heart disease CPR first aid

posted by Tessa | 9:19 AM (ET) | Permalink

Quebec implements toughest pesticide rules in North America
April 5, 2006

A new era in pesticide use has begun in Quebec. Earlier this week, the province's sweeping pesticide bans went into effect ... MORE»

murmur categories: home, health, environment

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism pesticides gardening Canada Quebec environment health toxins home

posted by Tessa | 9:51 AM (ET) | Permalink

Bottled not necessarily better, water conference hears
April 3, 2006

Researchers at a drinking water conference in Saint John, N.B., say too many people are afraid to drink what's coming out of their taps, and water utilities need to do a better job of marketing their product... MORE»

murmur categories: health, food/drink

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism water bottled water

posted by Tessa | 4:46 PM (ET) | Permalink

10 things your dentist won't tell you
April 3, 2006

Ever wondered whether you're getting your dentist is being straight with you about what you ought to be spending to keep your pearly whites clean and healthy? ... MORE»

murmur categories: health, services

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism dental dentistry

posted by Tessa | 3:13 PM (ET) | Permalink

Many kids too obese for car seats: study
April 3, 2006

A growing number of American children are too heavy to fit into standard car seats, a new study has found ... MORE»

murmur categories: kids, health/safety, travel, cars

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism car seats parenting travel children obesity

posted by Tessa | 11:33 AM (ET) | Permalink

Long-term cellphone use increases tumour risk: study
April 3, 2006

Using your cellphone for a long period of time can increase your chances of developing a brain tumour, new research from Sweden has found ... MORE»

murmur categories: health

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism health cellphones studies cancer research

posted by Tessa | 11:04 AM (ET) | Permalink

Study casts doubt on link between moderate drinking, heart health
April 3, 2006

There's some bad news for moderate drinkers: they may not be improving their health after all ... MORE»

murmur categories: health, food/drink

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism health alcohol research science health

posted by Tessa | 10:17 AM (ET) | Permalink

Sunscreen makers mislead consumers, lawsuits charge
March 31, 2006

Sun lovers beware: that sunscreen you're slathering on might not be as effective as you think. Several lawsuits filed in California this week allege that sunscreen makers have exposed millions of people to cancer and other dangers through false advertising and inflated claims about the effectiveness of their products... MORE»

murmur categories: health, advertising

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism cancer sunscreen lawsuits health

posted by Tessa | 9:39 AM (ET) | Permalink

Tips for minimizing your exposure to chemicals
March 28, 2006

Marketplace's recent story, Chasing the Cancer Answer, showed how we're exposed to a plethora of carcinogenic toxins through everyday consumer products. We also provided a list of carcinogens commonly found in products, from laundry detergents to fruits and vegetables... MORE»

murmur categories: environment, health

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism environment pollutants chemicals toxins health consumer rights

posted by Tessa | 11:23 AM (ET) | Permalink

Red Bull energy drinks and booze shouldn't mix: study
March 28, 2006

Researchers in Brazil say combining alcohol and 'energy drinks' such as Red Bull can put the drinker at a greater risk for accidents, simply because they don't feel drunk... MORE»

murmur categories: health, food/drink

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism health alcohol research science health alcoholism

posted by Tessa | 10:19 AM (ET) | Permalink

Vitamin C deserves another look, cancer researchers say
March 28, 2006

Mega-doses of vitamin C, sometimes dismissed as an "alternative" therapy for people with cancer, may be a plausible treatment after all, a study published this week says... MORE»

murmur categories: health, food

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism health cancer medicine vitamin C

posted by Tessa | 9:31 AM (ET) | Permalink

Pill-popping society fouling our water, official says
March 23, 2006

Birth control pills, cancer drugs and a host of other pharmaceuticals that people flush down the drain every day are showing up in our drinking water, says Gord Miller, Ontario's environmental commissioner... MORE»

murmur categories: health, environment

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism health water pharmaceutical

posted by Tessa | 2:15 PM (ET) | Permalink

Risky ride underfoot from wheeled shoes: safety council
March 22, 2006

Children and adults who wear Heelys – popular shoes with detachable wheels in the heels – should also don helmets and other protective gear, a safety group says... MORE»

murmur categories: kids, health/safety

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism safety kids children Heelys

posted by Tessa | 9:57 AM (ET) | Permalink

Proposed food guide allows too many calories: obesity doctor
March 20, 2006

Proposed revisions to Canada's Food Guide are being criticized for recommending portions that are too large and could encourage people to overeat and become overweight... MORE»

murmur categories: food/drink, health

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism nutrition health diet research food guide

posted by Tessa | 10:19 AM (ET) | Permalink

Ditch the antibacterial products: Canadian Paediatric Society
March 17, 2006

Washing your hands with good old soap and water is your best bet for fighting germs, according to the Canadian Paediatric Society... MORE»

murmur categories: health, kids

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism soap antibacterial health research

posted by Tessa | 9:38 AM (ET) | Permalink

Ipod generation risks permanent hearing loss, U.S. poll suggests
March 15, 2006

More than half of American high school students surveyed reported some signs of hearing loss, a finding audiologists blame on ubiquitous iPod, other MP3 players and portable DVD players... MORE»

murmur categories: health, kids, technology

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism iPod hearing loss science research portable technology health

posted by Tessa | 9:42 AM (ET) | Permalink

Push for carcinogen regulations on Parliament Hill
March 13, 2006

Marketplace's recent documentary, Chasing the Cancer Answer, has some politicians in Ottawa talking about the rising rates of the disease and the role regulations and product labelling might have on curbing Canada's cancer epidemic... MORE»

murmur categories: environment, health, food

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism environment pollutants chemicals toxins pesticides health cancer food consumer rights

posted by Tessa | 10:20 AM (ET) | Permalink

Soft drink sales go flat for first time in 20 years
March 10, 2006

For the first time in two decades, the sale of carbonated soft drinks is down, according to Ad Age... MORE»

murmur categories: health, food/drink, kids

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism nutrition health diet research beverages

posted by Tessa | 10:32 AM (ET) | Permalink

Long flights linked to blood clots
March 10, 2006

Being stuck in your seat on a long flight isn't the only factor that can trigger "traveller's thromobosis" in people who are prone to the blood clots, a study suggests... MORE»

murmur categories: travel, health

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism travel health thrombosis airlines airplanes

posted by Tessa | 10:08 AM (ET) | Permalink

U.S. lawmakers vote to dump strict anti-carcinogen labelling laws
March 9, 2006

This weekend's story on Marketplace, Chasing the Cancer Answer, raised the issue of how many consumer products in Canada aren't required to have ingredients labelled on them – even if those ingredients include known or suspected carcinogens... MORE»

murmur categories: health, food

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism health cancer food Proposition 65 consumer rights

posted by Tessa | 2:54 PM (ET) | Permalink

Canadians careful about online health info
March 9, 2006

Canadians appear to be researching medical conditions online more carefully, according to a new survey... MORE»

murmur categories: technology, health

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism health online web medicine

posted by Tessa | 12:06 PM (ET) | Permalink

More obese kids predicted
March 6, 2006

There will be more obese children all around the world by the end of the decade, the International Journal of Pediatric Obesity says... MORE»

murmur categories: health, food, kids

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism health obesity kids children diet

posted by Tessa | 10:45 AM (ET) | Permalink

Child car seat instructions confusing: police
March 6, 2006

Nearly 80 per cent of children's car seats are improperly installed, according to the Ontario Ministry of Transportation, but Toronto police say manufacturers should share some of the blame... MORE»

murmur categories: kids, health/safety, travel, cars

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism car seats parenting children travel children

posted by Tessa | 10:02 AM (ET) | Permalink

U.S. streams contaminated with pesticides: report
March 6, 2006

A large number of U.S. rivers and streams are contaminated with pesticides and herbicides, government scientists have found... MORE»

murmur categories: environment, health

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism environment pollutants chemicals toxins pesticides

posted by Tessa | 9:32 AM (ET) | Permalink

People with diabetes warned of antibiotic's side-effects
March 2, 2006

The antibiotic Tequin can have life-threatening side-effects in people with diabetes, a study by Canadian researchers has found. The antibiotic gatifloxacin is sold under the brand name Tequin by its manufacturer, Bristol-Myers Squibb... MORE»

murmur categories: health/safety

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism diabetes drugs medicine Tequin research health

posted by Tessa | 10:07 AM (ET) | Permalink

Group warns against beverages that may contain cancer-causing chemical
March 1, 2006

The Environmental Working Group is calling on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to take a closer look at several popular soft drinks, saying they contain two ingredients that can mix together to form the cancer-causing chemical benzene... MORE»

murmur categories: health, food/drink

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism health research FDA benzene cancer

posted by Tessa | 9:53 AM (ET) | Permalink

Passengers, crew exposed to air travel toxins: UK investigation
February 27, 2006

Thousands of travellers and airline crewmembers are exposed to potentially toxic gases, says an investigation by the Observer... MORE»

murmur categories: travel, health, environment

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism travel airlines health aviation airplane toxins air environment

posted by Tessa | 1:30 PM (ET) | Permalink

Teenage girls prefer pop: nutrition study
February 25, 2006

Girls tend to drink less milk and more pop as they get older, lowering their calcium intake and gaining weight, according to a 10-year study in the U.S. ... MORE»

murmur categories: health, food/drink, kids

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism nutrition health diet research

posted by Tessa | 10:10 AM (ET) | Permalink

Kids who drink bottled water risk tooth decay: American Dental Association
February 17, 2006

More and more Americans are guzzling bottled water every year – some 7.5 billion gallons were sucked back in 2005, according to preliminary figures from the Beverage Marketing Corp. – and that has some dentists worrying about tooth decay... MORE»

murmur categories: health, food/drink, kids

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism water bottled water dental dentistry

posted by Tessa | 4:43 PM (ET) | Permalink

U.S. regulator defines 'whole grain'
February 16, 2006

A new draft definition of "whole grain" is designed to help consumers make healthier eating choices, says the U.S. Food and Drug Administration... MORE»

murmur categories: health, food

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism health research diet FDA

posted by Tessa | 10:08 AM (ET) | Permalink

Alarm sounded about children's reactions to medications
February 13, 2006

Too many children are being hurt or killed by adverse reactions to medications that could be prevented, a Canadian specialist says... MORE»

murmur categories: health, kids

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism health medicine science research kids children

posted by Tessa | 1:52 PM (ET) | Permalink

Cutting fat did not reduce disease risk in older women: studies
February 8, 2006

Women who switched to a low-fat diet later in life did not see a reduced risk of breast cancer, colorectal cancer or heart disease, according to recent studies... MORE»

murmur categories: food, health

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism food diet women health low fat

posted by Tessa | 8:59 AM (ET) | Permalink

Teflon chemical found in newborns' umbilical cords
February 7, 2006

Researchers at a Baltimore hospital have found a potentially harmful Teflon chemical in nearly all of the umbilical cord blood samples of newborns tested there... MORE»

murmur categories: health, environment

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism environment Teflon cancer health news toxins research

posted by Tessa | 10:07 AM (ET) | Permalink

Ignore ovarian cancer screening test e-mail, advocates warn
February 3, 2006

Canadians are being warned about a widely circulated e-mail that contains incorrect and potentially dangerous information about a test for ovarian cancer... MORE»

murmur categories: health

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism cancer research health science medicine news healthcare Canada

posted by Tessa | 9:39 AM (ET) | Permalink

Some provincial cancer care doesn't make the grade, report card says
February 1, 2006

The quality of cancer treatment that Canadians receive may depend on where they live, an annual report card suggests... MORE»

murmur categories: health

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism cancer research health science medicine news healthcare Canada

posted by Tessa | 9:24 AM (ET) | Permalink

FDA tests find mercury risk in some light tuna
January 27, 2006

Testing by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has found that some cans of light tuna contain high levels of mercury, a toxic metal that can cause learning disabilities in children and neurological problems in adults... MORE»

murmur categories: health/safety, environment, food/drink

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism environment pollutants chemicals toxins seafood mercury tuna

posted by Tessa | 11:23 AM (ET) | Permalink

Harmful Teflon chemical to be eliminated by 2015
January 26, 2006

Several U.S. manufacturers say they’ll eliminate a Teflon chemical called PFOA from consumer products coated with the popular non-stick material... MORE»

murmur categories: environment health

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism environment Teflon cancer health news toxins

posted by Tessa | 11:52 AM (ET) | Permalink

Report paints chilling picture of snowmobile injuries
January 25, 2006

Snowmobile accidents account for most severe winter recreation injuries treated in Canada, far outnumbering snowboarding and skiing injuries, according to a report released today... MORE»

murmur categories: cars/transportation health/safety

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism safety snowmobiles research

posted by Tessa | 1:07 PM (ET) | Permalink

European companies say they'll stop pitching sugar drinks to kids
January 25, 2006

European divisions of global beverage companies like Coca-Cola and Cadbury Schweppes say they're going to wean their advertising to children and introduce low-calorie and sugar-free versions of their products... MORE»

murmur categories: health food advertising kids

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism health research diet nutrition advertising marketing obesity kids children

posted by Tessa | 10:39 AM (ET) | Permalink

Wonder Bread launching new whole-wheat loaf
January 24, 2006

Will wonders never cease? Wonder Bread, the makers of that ooey-gooey, squishy concoction that some call white bread (others are more skeptical), is getting on the health bandwagon. The staple of American school kids’ lunches is going whole grain... MORE»

murmur categories: health food

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism health research diet

posted by Tessa | 10:56 AM (ET) | Permalink

Heart group finds few health benefits from soy
January 23, 2006

Eating veggie burgers and tofu to lower "bad" cholesterol may not help, a new review of soy's health benefits suggests... MORE»

murmur categories: health food

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism soy health research diet

posted by Tessa | 5:23 PM (ET) | Permalink

Cellphones not linked to higher risk of brain tumours: study
January 20, 2006

Using a cellphone does not seem to increase the risk of developing the most common type of brain tumour, a large British study suggests... MORE»

murmur categories: health

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism cellphones cancer health research

posted by Tessa | 4:37 PM (ET) | Permalink

Average desk harbours 400 times more germs than average toilet seat
January 20, 2006

Think a visit to the bathroom will expose you to the most germs you’ll encounter today? Think again. A new study from the University of Arizona says the average desk harbours 400 times more bacteria than the average toilet seat... MORE»

murmur categories: health, miscellaneous

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism germs bacteria work research

posted by Tessa | 10:39 AM (ET) | Permalink

Consumer groups fire “last resort” attack against food giants
January 19, 2006

Consumers warned to watch for counterfeit drugs
January 18, 2006

Household insecticides could double child leukaemia risk
January 18, 2006

New research says children exposed to household insecticides could be at risk of developing childhood leukaemia... MORE»

murmur categories: health environment

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism health insecticides toxins leukaemia environment Technorati Profile

posted by Tessa | 11:46 AM (ET) | Permalink

Review shows Aspirin helps men, women differently
January 18, 2006

Women can benefit from taking a daily dose of Aspirin like men, but the drug's protective effects vary, a new review suggests... MORE»

murmur categories: health

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism medicine health drug testing aspirin

posted by Tessa | 10:01 AM (ET) | Permalink

One less drug useful against flu, Ottawa says
January 16, 2006

In the depths of the flu season, federal health officials say a drug used to combat outbreaks in old-age homes and other institutions has lost its power against common flu germs... MORE»

murmur categories: health

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism medicine health flu Tamiflu drug testing

posted by Tessa | 11:42 AM (ET) | Permalink

Student's bill would junk unhealthy food in school cafeterias
January 16, 2006

A Grade 9 student in Ontario has drafted a private member's bill calling for tougher nutritional standards in high school cafeterias. As part of CBC News: Making the Grade series, students across the province submitted ideas for a private member's bill. The series aims to get young people interested in politics by getting them involved in the process... MORE»

murmur categories: health food kids

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism health obesity kids children

posted by Tessa | 10:12 AM (ET) | Permalink

New guidelines should improve drug testing: FDA
January 13, 2006

Chest doctors discourage use of most cough syrups
January 10, 2006

Time remains the only tried-and-true way to fight coughs from colds, but if you must use something, try older medications, says the American College of Chest Physicians... MORE»

murmur categories: health, miscellaneous

tags: consumers, consumer news, consumerism, colds, flu, medicine, health

posted by Tessa | 9:49 AM (ET) | Permalink

Protect kids from computer injuries, safety council urges
January 6, 2006

Researchers fear the popularity of computers and video games is responsible for an increase inchildren are getting strain injuries injuries among children. The Canada Safety Council says from sitting in front of computers and video games for hours... MORE»

murmur categories: kids, health, technology

tags: consumers consumer news consumerism video games computers ergonomics kids children health parenting technology

posted by Tessa | 5:58 pm (ET) | Permalink

Kids aren’t any safer in an SUV than a car: study
January 4, 2006

Research released yesterday about the safety of Sport Utility Vehicles puts the brakes to the idea that bigger is better. A U.S. study says children are no safer riding in SUVs than in cars... MORE »

murmur categories: cars/auto industry, kids, safety

tags: consumers, consumer news, consumerism, SUVs, safety, kids

posted by Tessa | 9:51 AM (ET) | Permalink

Database details safety of cosmetic products
December 21, 2005

I’ve been meaning to check this site out since it launched last month – finally grabbed a few moments to troll through it this morning and I’m pretty amazed by the depth of information it provides... MORE »

murmur categories: health, environment

tags: consumers, consumer news, consumerism, cosmetics, toxins

posted by Tessa | 10:19 AM (ET) | Permalink

Yoga helps ease back pain: study
December 20, 2005

Worth repeating from CBC Health & Science News: Yoga movements may help relieve back pain more than other types of exercise, a new study suggests... MORE »

murmur categories: health

tags: consumers, consumer news, consumerism, yoga, exercise

posted 9:31 AM (ET) | Permalink

Climate change prompts Inuit to reduce hunt, limit healthy foods
December 19, 2005

Worth repeating from CBC Health & Science News: Researchers fear the North's changing environment will affect the health of Inuit by decreasing access to traditional foods from the land... MORE »

Excess drinking putting health of Canadians at risk: report
December 16, 2005

Worth repeating from CBC Health & Science News: Almost three-quarters of people consume alcohol in excess of Canada's low-risk drinking guidelines, a new study [PDF] suggests... MORE »

murmur categories: health, food

tags: consumers, consumer news, consumerism, health, alcohol

posted by Tessa | 9:35 AM (ET) | Permalink

your turn: suggest a murmur | email a comment

DuPont to pay record fine for Teflon chemical complaint
December 15, 2005

The Environmental Protection Agency reached a $16.5 million settlement with the DuPont Co. yesterday over the company's failure to report possible health risks associated with perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a chemical compound used to make Teflon, the Washington Post reports... MORE »

murmur categories: health/safety, environment

tags: consumers, consumer news, consumerism, environment, pollutants, chemicals, toxins, DuPont

posted by Tessa | 10:24 AM (ET) | Permalink

Colon cancer risk not lower with high-fibre diet: review
December 14, 2005

Worth repeating from CBC Health & Science News:Eating a diet high in fibre does not reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, but it is a good idea for your heart and for preventing diabetes, the authors of a new review say... MORE »

murmur categories: health, food

tags: consumers, consumer news, consumerism, colon cancer, diet

posted 9:47 AM (ET) | Permalink

Trial to compare heart risks of Celebrex, older pain drugs
December 14, 2005

Worth repeating from CBC Health & Science News: An international study of 20,000 people will compare the potential heart risks of Celebrex to traditional anti-inflammatories... MORE »

murmur categories: health

related Murmurs: New research underlines painkiller heart risk, Return COX-2s to market: arthritis patients to Health Canada panel, Ottawa holds 'landmark' forum on arthritis pills

tags: consumers, consumer news, consumerism, painkillers, Celebrex

posted 9:26 AM (ET) | Permalink

Tea consumption may reduce ovarian cancer risk: study
December 13, 2005

Worth repeating from CBC Health & Science News: Drinking a couple of cups of tea a day may help reduce the risk of developing ovarian cancer, say Swedish researchers who caution more research is needed to confirm the findings... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 12:21 PM (ET) | Permalink

Tests show mercury levels in seafood are ‘high’ and ‘pervasive’
December 12, 2005

Popular seafood sold in Chicago supermarkets –including walleye originating from Canada– is so contaminated with toxins that U.S. regulators could confiscate the fish for violating food safety rules, the Chicago Tribune reports... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:39 AM (ET) | Permalink

Pacifiers may help in fight against SIDS, research shows
December 9, 2005

The pacifier, no stranger to controversy, may not be just a soothing device – new research shows it may be a lifesaver, the Toronto Star reports... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:17 AM (ET) | Permalink

Change junk food ads aimed at kids: report
December 7, 2005

Food and beverage ads aimed at children 12 and under promote unhealthy choices, according to a new report that recommends the food industry market more nutritious options... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 11:26 AM (ET) | Permalink

Study links drinking alcohol with reduced obesity risk
December 6, 2005

Alcohol consumption may come with its associated risks, but a new study has found that subjects drank one or two drinks a day had a significant lower risk of obesity compared to non-drinkers, Food Consumer reports... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:24 AM (ET) | Permalink

Health effects of climate change felt worldwide
December 5, 2005

Climate change could be responsible for as many as 150,000 deaths around the world every year, according to health experts at the UN climate change conference being held in Montreal... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 11:37 AM (ET) | Permalink

Washing fruits and veggies not foolproof against illness
December 2, 2005

As consumption of healthy fruits and vegetables rises in Canada, the number of cases of food-borne illness involving produce has also increased, partly because microbes can't always be washed away... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:39 AM (ET) | Permalink

Soft drink sales dip in U.S. schools
December 1, 2005

The American Beverage Association says the amount of non-diet soft drinks sold in the nation's schools dropped more than 24 percent between 2002 and 2004, the Associated Press reports... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:13 AM (ET) | Permalink

Ont. health officials renew sprout warning, salmonella outbreak grows
December 1, 2005

Shoppers in Ontario are advised not to eat bean sprouts until the source of an outbreak of hundreds of cases of salmonella poisoning is known...MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:12 AM (ET) | Permalink

New CPR guidelines easier to do, remember
November 29, 2005

Bystanders who perform CPR should focus on chest compressions, not mouth-to-mouth breathing, new international guidelines say... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:52 AM (ET) | Permalink

Don't eat Ontario bean sprouts, for now: health officials
November 25, 2005

People in Ontario should avoid eating mung bean sprouts until the source of an outbreak of salmonella is confirmed, health officials said Friday... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 11:52 AM (ET) | UPDATED: 3:11 PM (ET) | Permalink

Fruits and veggies cause more illness than chicken and eggs: study
November 24, 2005

Many of us associate salmonella and other food-borne illnesses with chicken, but a new report says more and more people are getting sick from tainted fruits and vegetables... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:08 AM (ET) | Permalink

Few cold remedies backed with evidence
November 24, 2005

Commercial and herbal remedies claim to help relieve stuffy, runny noses, sneezing and the aches and pains of a cold, but many don't measure up CBC Health & Science News reports... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:07 AM (ET) | Permalink

Experimental weight-loss drug touted for cholesterol benefits
November 17, 2005

A new type of weight-loss drug may help improve risk factors for heart disease among people who are overweight, a Canadian-led research team has found... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:17 AM (ET) | Permalink

Second-hand smoke campaigns target great outdoors
November 16, 2005

Smoking has been banned in workplaces, restaurants and theatres, leaving the great outdoors as the next frontier for anti-smoking campaigns... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:50 AM (ET) | Permalink

Researchers explain why bundling up may prevent colds
November 15, 2005

Mothers who advise wrapping up on cold days are supported by medical research that has found people with cold toes are more likely to get runny noses... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:14 AM (ET) | Permalink

Birth control patch health warning issued
November 10, 2005

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning about a birth control patch used by millions of women, saying its high hormone levels could increase their health risks... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:12 AM (ET) | Permalink

Environmentalists test Canadians for pollutants
November 10, 2005

Many Canadians are being contaminated with heavy metals, pesticides and other toxic chemicals, suggests a study by an environmental watchdog group... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:58 AM (ET) | Permalink

KFC planning 'standby' ads to respond to Avian flu
November 9, 2005

KFC, the mammoth fast food chicken chain, is producing TV commercials that it hopes it never has to use... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:28 AM (ET) | Permalink

Get your fix from coffee instead of cola: study
November 9, 2005

Women who don't have high blood pressure may not need to worry that drinking coffee will increase their risk of developing hypertension, but the picture is less clear for drinking cola CBC Health & Science News reports... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:45 AM (ET) | Permalink

Evidence mounts on health benefits of flax
November 4, 2005

Flax, a grain that has been used for thousands of years in food and linen, is finding new popularity for its health benefits from fighting heart disease to preventing constipation, CBC Health & Science News reports... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:23 AM (ET) | Permalink

Common drug could double power of bird-flu antiviral: doctors
November 2, 2005

A common medication could be used to double the scarce supply of the antiviral drug Tamiflu in order to protect people in a deadly bird flu pandemic, some doctors say... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:34 AM (ET) | Permalink

Antibacterial soap no better than regular soap and water: FDA
October 26, 2005

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says consumers may be flushing their money down the drain when they buy antibacterial soap, Record Online reports. The FDA cites controlled studies that have found no significant difference in infections in households using antibacterial products, and those with regular (and usually cheaper) soap and water... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 12:29 PM (ET) | Permalink

Tamiflu sales halted as personal stockpiles grow
October 26, 2005

Roche Pharmaceuticals has temporarily stopped sales of its patented antiflu drug Tamiflu in Canada, saying it needs to safeguard its supply before influenza season begins... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:16 AM (ET) | Permalink

McDonald's to print food facts on wrappers
October 26, 2005

McDonald's customers will soon have a lot more to chew on when the company starts printing nutritional facts on the packaging of its products, CBC News reports... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:24 AM (ET) | Permalink

Ginseng-loaded ‘Cold-fX’ cuts frequency of common cold: study
October 25, 2005

It's not a cure for the common cold, but a Canadian company claims taking two pills throughout the winter can reduce the number and severity of colds... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:44 AM (ET) | Permalink

Keep children off 'toys that kill,' says doctor urging ATV ban
October 25, 2005

Doctors and nurses at Nova Scotia's children's hospital are demanding the province scrap its new rules for all-terrain vehicles, which will allow children as young as six to drive smaller machines... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:23 AM (ET) | Permalink

How toxic is your bathroom?
October 24, 2005

The Independent weighs in on what it calls a “chemical timebomb in your cosmetics cabinet,” a subject that was in the news in California last week with that state’s new law that aims to clamp down on the cosmetics industry... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 11:35 AM (ET) | Permalink

New California law calls for cosmetics industry makeover
October 20, 2005

California is clamping down on the cosmetics industry, the Voice of America reports. It’s become the first state in the U.S. to enact a law that requires manufacturers to disclose known or suspected carcinogens or ingredients that could affect developmental or reproductive health... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 12:58 PM (ET) | Permalink

Growing number of kids gulping “beer” drink in Japan
August 9, 2005

A non-alcoholic beverage targeted at kids is catching on with young drinkers in Japan... MORE »

posted 1:53 PM (ET) | Permalink

Et tu Benedict?
August 8, 2005

Forbes presents a top ten list of the worst foods you can stuff in your mouth... MORE »

posted 4:29 PM (ET) | Permalink

Study suggests link between milk and ovarian cancer
August 5, 2005

New Swedish research suggests there is some evidence linking ovarian cancer to milk consumption, but says more study is needed... MORE »

posted 12:51 PM (ET) | Permalink

Clean up nail salons: Paula Abdul
June 29, 2005

Sir Bob Geldof isn’t the only celebrity fighting for a cause these days: “American Idol” judge and singer/dancer Paula Abdul is fighting for cleaner nail salons, AP reports... MORE »

posted 11:25 AM (ET) | Permalink

Pediatricians call for mandatory car booster seats for children
June 24, 2005

All provinces and territories should make car booster seats mandatory to protect children in car accidents, the head of the Canadian Pediatric Society said yesterday... MORE »

posted 10:35 AM (ET) | Permalink

Mentors model healthy living for overweight kids
June 17, 2005

Children with weight problems in Montreal are being paired with mentors who help them to get out and be active, CBC Health and Science News reports... MORE »

posted 10:20 AM (ET) | Permalink

New research underlines painkiller heart risk
June 13, 2005

Anti-inflammatory medications including COX-2 inhibitors and drugs like ibuprofen may be linked to an increased risk of heart attack, new research suggests... MORE »

posted 10:17 AM (ET) | Permalink

Return COX-2s to market: arthritis patients to Health Canada panel
June 10, 2005

Patients and doctors had a chance to share their views yesterday on whether Canadians should be able to take a controversial class of arthritis drugs, CBC Health and Science News reports... MORE »

posted 10:17 AM (ET) | Permalink

Raisins can help fight cavities: study
June 9, 2005

Raisins may help fight tooth decay and protect your oral or dental health, a new study has found... MORE »

posted 9:31 AM (ET) | Permalink

Study shows heat and smog are killers
June 7, 2005

Smog is responsible for more than 800 deaths a year in Toronto, and extreme heat makes the problem even worse, a new government study has found... MORE »

posted 9:03 AM (ET) | Permalink

Florida pharmacists could be liable for drug interactions in patients
June 6, 2005

An appeals court in Florida is allowing a widower to sue two pharmacists for negligence in the death of his wife... MORE »

posted 10:56 AM (ET) | Permalink

Read 'low sugar' labels carefully, dietitians advise
June 2, 2005

Low or reduced-sugar products are replacing low-carb foods as the latest healthy eating trend, but it may be a case of marketing winning out over science... MORE »

posted 9:15 AM (ET) | Permalink

Painkillers linked to increased breast cancer risk
June 1, 2005

People who use ibuprofen or aspirin daily for years may be in greater danger of getting breast cancer, a U.S. study suggests... MORE »

posted 9:11 AM (ET) | Permalink

Viagra and blindness connection investigated
May 27, 2005

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says it's investigating reports of possible blindness by some users of the anti-impotence pills Viagra, Cialis and Levitra, CBC Health and Science News reports... MORE »

posted 2:37 PM (ET) | Permalink

More young people getting skin cancer
May 27, 2005

Teens and people in their 20s are starting to get a very common form of skin cancer usually found in people over 50, the Canadian Dermatology Association said today... MORE »

posted 2:29 PM (ET) | Permalink

Canadian children get Fs in phys-ed
May 27, 2005

A new evaluation of children's fitness gives Canada a failing grade, the head of a national charity devoted to boosting healthy living said yesterday... MORE »

posted 10:34 AM (ET) | Permalink

Adverse drug reaction database goes online
May 25, 2005

Health Canada will make its database of adverse drug reactions available to Canadians in a searchable online format, Health Minister Ujjal Dosanjh will announce in a release today, CBC News Online reports... MORE »

posted 10:26 AM (ET) | Permalink

U.S. trend for firms to screen smokers troubles ethicists
May 24, 2005

A tactic used by some U.S. companies to screen out smokers may begin to take hold in Canada, but it faces stiff opposition from puffing advocates and medical ethicists, CBC Health and Science News reports... MORE »

posted 9:27 AM (ET) | Permalink

Ottawa holds 'landmark' forum on arthritis pills
May 19, 2005

Health Canada is to hold a two-day public forum next month in Ottawa on the risks and benefits of so-called COX-2 painkillers, which have been tied to heart problems... MORE »

posted 9:18 AM (ET) | Permalink

Ontario passes allergy law for schools
May 17, 2005

Ontario has become the first Canadian province requiring public school teachers to be trained to recognize the symptoms of acute allergic reactions and know how to treat them... MORE »

posted 2:42 PM (ET) | Permalink

Cocktail of noise and carbon monoxide increases hearing loss: study
May 16, 2005

Garage mechanics, firefighters and truckers, listen up: a new study shows chronic exposure to noise plus carbon monoxide increases hearing loss... MORE »

posted 2:11 PM (ET) | Permalink

Two-thirds of patients brush off their dentist's advice, study suggests
May 16, 2005

Two-thirds of dental patients fail to follow advice on tending their teeth and gums, British researchers have found... MORE »

posted 1:33 PM (ET) | Permalink

Races handle salt differently, study suggests
May 12, 2005

The bodies of black and white teenage girls handle salt and calcium differently, which may help to explain why the races have different rates of hypertension and fragile bones, according to research at Purdue University in Indiana... MORE »

posted 9:22 AM (ET) | Permalink

Mirror mirror on the wall, which diet is best of all?
May 10, 2005

Weight Watchers, Zone, Atkins… Which diet is best for you?... MORE »

posted 10:29 AM (ET) | Permalink

Poverty affects health more than smoking, study suggests
May 10, 2005

Poverty erodes a person's health more than smoking, drinking or lack of exercise, a Statistics Canada study suggests... MORE »

posted 10:21 AM (ET) | Permalink

Video gaming causing repetitive strains
May 9, 2005

An affliction once thought limited to the adult world of office typing has spread into the youthful playpen of living room video games, CBC Health and Science News reports... MORE »

posted 1:23 PM (ET) | Permalink

Ontario doctors aging and working less: survey
May 5, 2005

The average age of doctors in Ontario is increasing while the amount of hours they're working is declining, an annual survey [PDF] by the province's medical regulatory body said yesterday... MORE »

posted 9:27 AM (ET) | Permalink

Spring means reach for repellent, West Nile experts say
May 4, 2005

The return of mosquito season brings back West Nile virus, but doctors worry Canadians could become complacent about protecting themselves, CBC Health and Science News reports... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:26 AM (ET) | Permalink

Air pollution kills thousands each year: Health Canada
May 3, 2005

It's estimated that 5,900 Canadian deaths each year can be attributed to air pollution, a new report from Health Canada says... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:43 AM (ET) | Permalink

Study links poor diet to learning disorders
May 2, 2005

Kids in the U.K. suffer from behavioural and learning disorders because of their diets, a new study says. The research found that British children’s diets are deficient in vital nutrients needed for their brains to function normally... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:22 AM (ET) | Permalink

Allergies on the rise: study
April 25, 2005

After spending much of the weekend wheezing and sneezing, I don’t find much consolation in the fact that I’m not alone. A new study published in the British Medical Journal shows a “highly significant increase” in the number of people suffering from allergies... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:01 AM (ET) | Permalink

'Say no to pop,' Nunavut residents told
April 25, 2005

Health officials in Nunavut are calling on residents to "Drop the Pop" this week in an effort to raise awareness about tooth decay, obesity and diabetes in the northern territory... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:40 AM (ET) | Permalink

Wine’s health benefits exaggerated: study
April 21, 2005

Canadian youth rate poorly on obesity scales
April 21, 2005

Canadian youth are spending so much time in front of TV and computer screens that they rank fourth in the world for obesity, a new study finds... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:24 AM (ET) | Permalink

U.S. government analysts reduce estimate of obesity death toll
April 20, 2005

Government analysts downgraded the annual death toll from obesity yesterday... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:07 AM (ET) | Permalink

FDA probes safety of cosmetics
April 18, 2005

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is investigating whether the chemicals that make shampoos fragrant and nail polish chip-resistant are hazardous to your health, the Kansas City Star reports... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 11:19 AM (ET) | Permalink

Suburban vs. urban living: This New House
April 14, 2005

The suburban house has been getting larger and larger, taking up more land and more resources and more energy to operate. Meanwhile, the people who live in that house are getting larger and larger themselves, as obesity rates rise with our growing dependence on the automobile [see this Canadian Heart and Stroke foundation study for more on that]... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 12:18 PM (ET) | Permalink

Disney baubles contain lead, group charges
April 13, 2005

An environmental group says some jewellery sold by the Walt Disney Co. contains dangerously toxic levels of lead... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:05 AM (ET) | Permalink

Drugs killing thousands of seniors yearly
April 11, 2005

A CBC News investigation reports that Canadian seniors account for 44 per cent of adverse drug reactions causing death that are reported to Health Canada, even though they make up just 13 per cent of the population... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:03 AM (ET) | Permalink

Peanut allergy sufferers beware of lupin flour: doctors
April 11, 2005

Doctors say kids and adults who are allergic to peanuts should stay clear of products that contain lupin flour, CBC Health and Science News reports... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:54 AM (ET) | Permalink

Bextra off the market in Canada
April 7, 2005

Health Canada asked drug maker Pfizer on Thursday to immediately discontinue sales of its arthritis drug Bextra, the same day sales were suspended in the U.S. and Europe until concerns about its safety are cleared up... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 3:51 PM (ET) | Permalink

Cosmetic safety in doubt
April 6, 2005

The Boston Globe has an interesting article on the issue of cosmetic safety... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:21 AM (ET) | Permalink

Riding the school bus exposes kids to pollution: study
April 6, 2005

Children riding in school buses are breathing in more pollution than people standing out on the streets, U.S. researchers have found... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:06 AM (ET) | Permalink

Group suggests maximum medical wait times
April 4, 2005

A medical alliance has set out the maximum times that patients should have to wait for diagnostic tests and treatment for five key health-care areas – a step toward the creation of national standards, CBC News Online reports... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:21 AM (ET) | Permalink

Enjoy Easter chocolate, as long as it's dark: experts
March 24, 2005

Chocolate is one of the guilty pleasures many Christians give up for Lent each year, but a gathering of experts at McGill University concluded Wednesday that it can actually be good for you... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:40 AM (ET) | Permalink

Nobody under 18 should use a tanning bed: WHO
March 17, 2005

The World Health Organization says people under 18 years old should never use tanning beds... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 1:31 PM (ET) | Permalink

Alternative health care growing in Canada
March 16, 2005

More Canadians are using chiropractors and other forms of alternative health care, Statistics Canada reports... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:39 AM (ET) | Permalink

Little tracking of drugs pulled from Canadian market
March 16, 2005

Health Canada doesn't keep a list of drugs pulled from the market for safety reasons, nor does the department clearly explain what triggers a recall, a journal commentary suggests... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:36 AM (ET) | Permalink

Vitamin E supplements may raise heart risks, not help: study
March 16, 2005

Vitamin E is not only useless for reducing the risk of heart disease and most forms of cancer, in some cases it may be dangerous, a new Canadian-led study suggests... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:26 AM (ET) | Permalink

If you need another reason not to eat fast food…
March 14, 2005

... Here are a few (improper food temperatures, hygienic practice, improper hand washing, not disinfecting, food equipment or utensils…) from Dateline’s investigation into the fast food industry and what restaurants are doing the best and the worst job of keeping things safe and clean... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 11:39 AM (ET) | Permalink

Health Canada issues cough syrup warning
March 14, 2005

Health Canada is advising consumers to avoid a generic cough syrup because it contains twice the amount of active ingredient listed on the label... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:23 AM (ET) | Permalink

FDA sounds cancer warning for eczema drugs
March 11, 2005

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has ordered drug companies to place the strongest type of warning on two popular eczema drugs, CBC Health and Science News reports... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:09 AM (ET) | Permalink

Another reason to hate cockroaches
March 10, 2005

Cockroaches are worse for asthma in kids than furry pets or dust mites, a new study released yesterday has found... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:09 AM (ET) | Permalink

Dairy debate gets heated
March 8, 2005

Milk doesn’t always do the body good. That’s the bottom line from a report published in the journal Pediatrics, which says boosting consumption of milk or other dairy products is not necessarily the best way to provide enough calcium to the body... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 12:45 PM (ET) | Permalink

How many toxins are in you?
March 8, 2005

Here’s an interesting feature from this weekend’s Globe and Mail: reporter Mark Stevenson trekked to Harvard's School of Public Health and underwent a series of tests to analyze the toxins and impurities in his body... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 11:02 AM (ET) | Permalink

FDA seizes batches of two Glaxo drugs
March 7, 2005

Officials in the U.S. seized batches of a diabetes drug and an antidepressant medication on Friday because of concerns the drug company didn't meet manufacturing standards, CBC Health and Science News reports... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:00 AM (ET) | Permalink

Advocacy group targets drug makers with satirical ad
March 2, 2005

The Consumers Union, publisher of Consumer Reports, has created a biting ad satire of the drug industry. The advocacy group hopes it will stir debate in the U.S. over the need for safer, more effective and affordable prescription drugs... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 11:35 AM (ET) | Permalink

Teacher loses weight on 'Super Size Me' diet
March 2, 2005

After a month of eating only McDonald's food, a teacher in Edmonton has lost weight, lowered his blood pressure and won a bet with his biology students, but nutritionists say he's risking his health... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:04 AM (ET) | Permalink

Ontario passes ban on pit bulls
March 2, 2005

A controversial bill to ban pit bulls passed in the Ontario legislature yesterday, and now requires only royal assent before becoming law, CBC News reports... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:41 AM (ET) | Permalink

Beef up drug monitoring, Health Canada told
March 1, 2005

The recent health scare surrounding popular arthritis drugs prove that Canadians need to be warned sooner about dangerous drugs, some of the country's top scientists told Health Canada today... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 2:57 PM (ET) | Permalink

'Brain pacemaker' may help worst cases of depression: study
March 1, 2005

Deep electrical stimulation of the brain may help alleviate severe, chronic depression in patients who don't respond to other treatments, researchers in Ontario have found... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:31 AM (ET) | Permalink

MDs sue U.S. over salt levels in food
February 25, 2005

CBC Health and Science News reports that a prominent group of doctors and scientists is suing the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for not regulating salt, saying 150,000 people in North America die prematurely every year from eating too much sodium... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:25 AM (ET) | Permalink

Canada, U.S. heed WHO flu warning, prepare for pandemic
February 24, 2005

As the World Health Organization warns avian flu could spiral out of control, Canada and the U.S. are taking different approaches to developing a vaccine, CBC Health and Science News reports... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:42 AM (ET) | Permalink

School nutrition programs lead to trimmer students: study
February 23, 2005

Elementary school nutrition programs can help to prevent child obesity and more schools should participate in them, according to the authors of a new study in Nova Scotia... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:44 AM (ET) | Permalink

No ban planned for 2,4-D: Canada's pesticide regulator
February 22, 2005

Canadians can continue to spray the popular garden herbicide 2,4-D, the country's pesticide regulator said yesterday... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:03 AM (ET) | Permalink

U.S. committee OKs all three arthritis drugs
February 18, 2005

CBC News reports that a committee advising the U.S. drug regulator has ruled that three arthritis drugs linked to heart problems should stay on the American market. It's a decision that could affect millions of arthritis sufferers... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 4:00 PM (ET) | Permalink

Antidepressants increase risk of suicidal behaviour: study
February 18, 2005

A widely prescribed class of anti-depressants contributes to a two-fold increase in the risk of suicide attempts, say the Canadian authors of the most comprehensive study of its kind. [CBC News report] ... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 12:18 PM (ET) | Permalink

No need to fear early epidurals during labour: study
February 17, 2005

Childbirth could be less painful for moms-to-be who worry taking pain medications early in labour will raise their risk of needing a caesarean section, CBC Health and Science News reports... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:10 AM (ET) | Permalink

Ottawa may strengthen arthritis drug warnings
February 16, 2005

Potentially risky arthritis medications like Celebrex may soon carry stronger warnings, Canada's health minister said as he announced new drug-safety measures on Tuesday... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:30 AM (ET) | Permalink

Nip and tuck goes glossy
February 14, 2005

I suppose it was bound to happen. Profits in the nip and tuck industry are growing faster than the collagen-pumped lips of the beauty-obsessed, so we ought not be surprised by the entry of a new glossy magazine devoted to America’s fascination with surgical body sculpting... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:36 AM (ET) | Permalink

Aboriginals resume traditional diet to curb diabetes epidemic
February 14, 2005

Rates of obesity and diabetes in some aboriginal communities are up to 50 per cent higher than the Canadian average, but reverting to a more traditional diet may help address the problem CBC Health and Science News reports... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:40 AM (ET) | Permalink

Cars killing suburban dwellers, heart foundation says
February 11, 2005

Cars are killing Canadians, and it's not the accidents, the Heart and Stroke Foundation said yesterday... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:35 AM (ET) | Permalink

Health Canada withdraws ADHD drug
February 10, 2005

CBC Health & Science News reports that a drug to treat attention deficit disorder is being pulled off the market by Canadian regulators... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 4:19 PM (ET) | Permalink

Lead in kids’ jewellery targeted by new U.S. regulations
February 9, 2005

The Kansas City Star reports that the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced new enforcement guidelines to reduce the health risks from lead in children's metal jewellery... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:38 AM (ET) | Permalink

Researcher develops measure of food's effects for nutritional labels
February 8, 2005

CBC Health and Science News reports that a researcher in New Zealand has come up with a new measure for food labels that will explain what a food does and how well it does it, as well as what it is... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 12:07 PM (ET) | Permalink

Juice doubles risk of weight trouble in kids: study
February 8, 2005

The Associated Press reports on a new study that says sweet drinks – from sugar-spiked beverages like Kool-Aid to naturally sweetened juices – increases the chance of childhood obesity... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:36 AM (ET) | Permalink

Arkansas lawmaker wants to gut state’s ‘fat grade’ program
February 4, 2005

Earlier this season, Marketplace aired a story about a controversial program in Arkansas that ordered every school in the state to measure and record the height and weight of students to determine their body mass index (BMI)... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:54 AM (ET) | Permalink

Nursing homes overprescribe tranquillizers, researcher says
February 3, 2005

Many seniors in nursing homes are overprescribed tranquilizers that make them more likely to get injured or develop amnesia or cognitive impairment, an Alberta study suggests... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 1:28 PM (ET) | Permalink

Parents of active kids should get a tax break: B.C. MLA
February 3, 2005

A former British Columbia cabinet minister wants the province to give parents a financial incentive to keep their kids active in extracurricular sports, recreation and the arts... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 11:25 AM (ET) | Permalink

U.K. clamps down on cosmetic procedures amid fears of “mad cow” connection
February 2, 2005

The British government is investigating whether cosmetic implants used in lips and cheeks could trigger the human form of “mad cow” disease, reports The Times Online... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:59 AM (ET) | Permalink

Health Canada weighs ban on baby bath seats
January 27, 2005

Parents should avoid buying infant bath seats or bath rings because the products are linked to injuries and drownings, pediatricians say. Earlier today, the Canadian Pediatric Society asked its members to discourage parents from buying and using the seats or rings... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 8:10 PM (ET) | Permalink

Court revives teens’ suit against McDonald’s
January 26, 2005

McDonald's Corp. must face a suit by New York teenagers who claim the company hid the health risks of Chicken McNuggets and other foods and made them obese, an appeals court has ruled... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:14 AM (ET) | Permalink

Study linking Vioxx to heart problems finally published
January 25, 2005

Vioxx, the anti-inflammatory drug taken off the market last fall because of safety concerns, could have caused thousands of heart problems and even deaths in the United States, a controversial study suggests... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 12:30 PM (ET) | Permalink

Baby bottle warning
January 25, 2005

An American scientist says he’s worried about the safety of babies' bottles... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:58 AM (ET) | Permalink

Everyday chemicals ‘cause infertility, cancer and birth defects’
January 20, 2005

A group scientists are appealing for new regulations on everyday chemicals which they say are making 15 per cent of European couples infertile... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:55 AM (ET) | Permalink

U.S. cosmetics companies ditch phthalates
January 18, 2005

An update to a story from last week: Two major cosmetics companies in the U.S. have agreed to eliminate chemicals suspected of causing cancer, birth defects and infertility from their products, including a common plasticizer in nail polish... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 11:33 AM (ET) | Permalink

American vending machine group launches anti-obesity effort
January 14, 2005

The vending machine industry in the United States, taking heavy criticism as kids and other Americans get fatter, is launching an anti-obesity marketing campaign to improve its image and fend off efforts to remove machines from schools... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:42 AM (ET) | Permalink

Cosmetics companies dump phthalates
January 14, 2005

Three major cosmetics manufacturers say they’ve stopped using chemicals known as phthalates in their products... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 9:52 AM (ET) | Permalink

Killer carbs? Cancer fighter in the tea leaves?
January 13, 2005

The debate over acrylamide continues. While no one knows if the levels found in snacks like French fries are safe, the white, odourless chemical has been said to cause cancer and reproductive problems in laboratory rats fed high doses... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:24 AM (ET) | Permalink

Kraft to cut back on junk food ads aimed at kids
January 12, 2005

Kraft Foods says it will remove some of its snack foods from advertising in media seen by children aged 6-11 as part of the fight against rising obesity levels... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:51 AM (ET) | Permalink

Keep kids away from cellphones
January 12, 2005

No child under eight should have a mobile phone, and base towers should be kept away from schools, an official inquiry into the safety of mobiles in England has found... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:22 AM (ET) | Permalink

Cleaning products may affect babies' breathing
January 11, 2005

Pregnant women who use a lot of household chemical products are more likely to have babies with persistent wheezing, new research from Britain reports... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 2:10 PM (ET) | Permalink

Fast food supersizes
January 4, 2005

Happy New Year! Back at my desk with plenty of things to catch up on... MORE »

posted by Tessa | 10:14 AM (ET) | Permalink

What's your posion?
December 17, 2004

Pollution is a growing problem in our increasingly chemical-dependent world.

Concerns range from food scares and asthma to species loss and mountains of toxic waste. The folks at the BBC want to know how much you know about the effects of the everyday substances around you. They've created a quiz to challenge your pollution awareness - and while I consider myself fairly informed in such matters, I only got half of the answers correct. I suppose I have some reading to do over the holidays.

Take the quiz yourself and see how your pollution smarts fare.

posted by Tessa (Online Producer, Marketplace) | 09:27 AM (ET)

Teddy bears can kill
December 14, 2004

For the paranoid alarmist, hypochondriac and skeptical stats lover, there's a new book that lists the 100 deadliest things lurking in our everyday life.

For instance, did you know that "more people are killed annually by teddy bears than by grizzly bears"? Or how about this: "almost 70,000 people are injured every year in Britain while doing the garden - including an estimated 4,000 flowerpot injuries."

The book, 100 Most Dangerous Things in Everyday Life and What you Can Do About Them, is by British author Laura Lee, who spooks readers with stats relating to everyday threats - from rubber bands to wading pools to underwire bras.

But Lee also provides expert advice on how to best minimize the hazards. For example, to avoid wrecking yourself in the garden, "reduce the chance of sprains by stretching your muscles before digging, and wear a sun hat, hard-toed shoes and gloves." But beware while putting on your sun hat that it doesn't poke you in the eye.

posted by Tessa (Online Producer, Marketplace) | 4:42 PM (ET)

Cats are already weird enough, aren't they?
December 13, 2004

You might remember a story Marketplace brought you last season about a company that was producing "GloFish" -- genetically modified pet fish that glow.

Recently, a Los Angeles company announced that it will create its own genetically modified pet - a critter it claims will be "the world's first hypoallergenic cat."

Allerca Inc. says by 2007 it will begin selling cats that are genetically engineered to be nearly free from the allergy-causing proteins that plague millions of people.

While some wonder if the plan will run up against federal regulators in the U.S., Allerca's president, Simon Brodie, says he doesn't expect there will be any problems. Brodie figures a precedent was set in the GloFish case (neither the Department of Agriculture nor the Food and Drug Administration stepped into regulate GloFish because the fish weren't meant for human consumption).

"Obviously, things can change," Brodie told the Associated Press. "But as long as people don't start eating cats and they don't enter the food chain, then we should be handled like the GloFish."

posted by Tessa (Online Producer, Marketplace) | 10:19 AM (ET)

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