Health News for the Week of 6/22/2008

We're adding a new feature to the Allergy Be Gone blog this week: a round-up of health-related links. I'm just going to dive right in.

• Smart people live longer? This is a somewhat interesting and also somewhat strange article that postulates a link between longevity and high IQ - a gene that seems to contribute to both.
• The New York Times writes about an ambitious plan by the Health Department to test all adults in the Bronx for AIDS. One part of the plan is to offer testing to anyone who come into the emergency room for any reason. Since the Bronx has more incidents of AIDS and HIV-related deaths than anywhere in New York City, they're really trying to make this work.
• A new study says that the closer children live to a major roadway growing up, the higher their chance of getting allergies. It’s a bit troubling in this increasingly urban age. This is on the heels of a study that shows that drinking farm milk reduces childhood allergies.
• According to this article, almost two-thirds of people with asthma in the US don't get a flue shot, despite being at increased risk for complications. Even if you haven't had any recent symptoms, if you have asthma, you need to get a shot.
• Omega-3 fatty acids may have a role in preventing asthma. A new study has found that they produce a molecule in mice that helps resolve and prevent respiratory distress. The article mentions that other studies have applied this to humans. Since there are other benefits to a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids, eating fish or taking a supplement is a good thing.
• Some interesting tips from BBC News readers to help you get to sleep. I think I’ll pass this one around, as I know a few people who have been having trouble sleeping lately.
• Eye-opening and slightly frightening article in the latest Reader’s Digest gives 41 secrets your doctor would never tell you. Doctors share their deepest secrets, including: “I was told in school to put a patient in a gown when he isn’t listening or cooperating. It casts him in a position of subservience.” and “Sometimes it’s easier for a doctor to write a prescription for a medicine than to explain why the patient doesn’t need it”

That's it for the week. Let me know how you like our latest feature, or my choice of stories. Also, if you have a story you want to submit, please send it to me.