Asthma Takes Tougher Toll on the Obese (HealthDay)Severe, persistent asthma is more likely to strike obese individuals than people who are not overweight, U.S. researchers report.

T’ai Chi Boosts Immune System Against Shingles in Older Adults (HealthDay)T’ai chi, an exercise that features slow martial arts-like movements and meditation, significantly improves the ability of older adults’ immune systems to fight the virus — varicella zoster — that causes shingles, a new study says.

Rheumatoid Illness, Smoking Can Harm Heart’s Aorta (HealthDay)Inflammatory rheumatic diseases and smoking are both associated with inflammation of the heart’s aorta, the main artery carrying blood to the body, researchers report.

Discrimination Linked to Health Problems Among Minorities (HealthDay)Routine, even subtle, racial discrimination places significant mental stress on minorities that may provoke the development of chronic illness, new research suggests.

Generic Ambien Approved (HealthDay)The first generic versions of the popular sleep aid zolpidem tartrate, brand name Ambien, have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

FDA Recalls Animal Feed Tainted With Melamine From U.S. Supplier (HealthDay)Two U.S. manufacturers of an ingredient used in livestock and fish food have recalled some of their products due to contamination with the chemical melamine, U.S. health officials said today.

Guidelines Push Pulmonary Rehab for COPD Patients (HealthDay)Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) should take part in a comprehensive rehabilitation program that includes both low- and high-intensity exercise, say new guidelines issued by the American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP) and the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation.

Posted by webmdalert in Public Health