Health News

Pancreas Disorder in Kids Increasing
The pancreas plays an important role in the digestion of food and overall metabolism. But when it becomes inflamed, it can cause serious problems.
Some Pancreatitis Patients May Want Cancer Screening
Spotting cancer early can increase the chances for successful treatment. But some cancers, such as pancreatic cancer, are rarely detected early. New research suggests another issue with the pancreas may signal cancer risk.
Hormone Therapy After Menopause Upped Pancreatitis Risk
Many women use hormone replacement therapy to help with menopause symptoms. But the treatment does carry some increased risks for developing other medical conditions.
Smoking Hurts The Pancreas Too
Everyone knows that smoking can cause lung cancer. But there are many other less known ill effects being investigated, adding to the list of reasons to ditch the habit.
Who's the Drunkest of Them All?
Many Americans may enjoy drinking on New Year's Eve, but they don't top the charts. In fact, the US is not even among the 25 "drunkest" countries in world alcohol consumption rates.
Gene Uncorks Pancreatitis in Heavy Drinkers
Excessive drinking has been linked to chronic pancreatitis, but only a fraction of alcoholics get the disease. A gene mutation can identify men who are at highest risk.
Diabetes Drug's Dark Side
There have been huge strides in the fight against diabetes over the past decade. Patients now have more treatment and drug options than they ever did before. Yet, some of these drugs may not be entirely safe.
Weight Loss Drug Doesn't Work
Some obese people take weight-loss drugs to help deal with their health problem. One of these drugs, orlistat, may be harmful.  The drug already carries a black box warning for liver damage, which the FDA added last year.
Non-Invasive Pancreatic Therapy Finds Success
Two studies have found a way to improve in-patient combined therapy for pancreatic disease, which has shown higher survival rates than surgery.