(May 26, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From California - According to research in the Archives of Internal Medicine, computer-based programs may help smokers quit cigarettes. In a review of 22 trials involving nearly 30,000 smokers, researchers found that the percentage who stayed away from tobacco a year after a Web- or computer-based cessation program ended was 9.9%. This was compared to only 5.7% in the control group.

From Vienna - According to research presented to the European Society of Human Genetics, there is a genetic link between gum disease and coronary heart disease. Scientists have found that a gene variant on chromosome 9 is shared between periodontitis and heart disease. While the link is not yet understood, dentists are urged to diagnose and treat periodontitis as early as possible to minimize heart disease risk.

And finally, from Houston - According to research in the journal Pediatrics, carbon monoxide poisoning after disasters is linked to running gasoline-fueled generators indoors. After Hurricane Ike, which left 2 million people without power in September 2008, 21 children and 17 adults were poisoned. It was discovered that five of these incidents resulted from the use of generators to power video games for children.

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