(December 8, 2008 - Insidermedicine) From Washington - According to research in the Archives of Internal Medicine, a half-dose of the flu vaccine may be all that is needed in healthy young adults. In a study of over 1,100 people, researchers found that those younger than 50 who had been previously vaccinated did not have a significantly different immune response to a half-dose, compared to those who received a full dose. The researchers suggest that this could be important in times of vaccine shortage.

From Maryland - An FDA advisory panel has approved Allergan Inc.'s eye drug Lumigan as a cosmetic product. In a study of nearly 300 people, the drug, originally used to treat glaucoma, was found to increase eyelash length and thickness in 78% of those who received it, and will be marketed under the new trade name Latisse for this purpose. According to the company, the drug must be applied continuously or lashes will shrink to their original size within a few months.

And finally, from Australia - According to research in the Archives of Ophthalmology, over 1 billion people worldwide are affected by presbyopia, more commonly known as farsightedness. Researchers also estimated that about 410 million with the condition are unable to perform tasks that require near vision, and 517 million have inadequate eyeglasses, or no eyeglasses at all. It is estimated that, by 2020, an additional 400 million people will be affected by this condition.

For Insidermedicine in 60, I'm Dr. Susan Sharma.