July 24, 2007 (Insidermedicine)

From Boston,
Diet pop is not healthy. People who drink one or more can of soda- regardless of whether or not it was diet- had a 50% higher risk of metabolic syndrome- a medical condition that is linked to diabetes and heart disease. Best to probably stay away from pop altogether and just have water.

From Wichita,
A young girl who became unresponsive on a flight from Altanta to Wichita has been diagnosed with bacterial meningitis. Officials are trying to contact those who traveled with her on this and an original flight from Orlando.

From New York,
Nearly 25% of New Yorkers have high blood mercury levels. The high levels are believed to be related to the ingestion of fish. Young children and pregnant mothers should avoid fish which are high in mercury- such as Chilean sea bass, swordfish and tuna.

From Paris,
Those with severe writers cramp may have abnormalities in the brain. Researchers have noted changes in 3 areas of the brain in 30 patients with severe writers cramp. MRIs noted loss of tissue in the cerebellum, thalamus and sensorimotor cortex.

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