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Don't let malaria put the bite on your travels
Hippocrates (460?-377 BC) described it in his written observations. Ancient Chinese, Egyptian and Middle Eastern cultures refer to this disease. Outbreaks often coincide with warfare, mass migrations and other societal disruptions. The British blamed “bad air” in the mid 1800’s India for a disease that killed many of their nationals. This mala aria (from the…
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How to control asthma
How many asthmatics think their asthma is under control? If you are like most Canadians, 91 per cent believe so. Indeed, perception is not a mirror of reality.
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Reduce risk of parasite: Hearing loss may be linked to toxoplasma
Originally published in The Ottawa Citizen June 11, 2004 Original Title: Stay away from Puss ‘n Boots We live with a multitude of bacteria and parasites in our environment. Many do not cause disease in healthy individuals.
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Fighting pests that bug your intestines
They have exotic names but they are less than endearing. Intestinal parasites come in all shapes and sizes. Each has its own way of taking advantage of the body’s metabolism and anatomy.
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Hand infections need immediate attention
Originally published in The Ottawa Citizen May 18, 2004 Original Title: I’ve got blistahs on my fingahs What are the common hand infections? What causes them and how are they treated? Although by no means a comprehensive guide, there are five common infections encountered in the emergency room or your family doctor’s office.
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A closer look at St. John's Wort
Known as Fuga Demonum or Devil’s Scourge, its original use was to ward off evil spirits and prevent demonic possession. Sixth century Gaelic legend makes reference to St. Columba who carried a piece of the flowering plant in deference to St. John the Baptist around whose birthday the flower would bloom.
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Helping vegetarian teens thrive
Increasing numbers of adolescents, especially girls, are adopting vegetarian diets. Their reasons for choosing a vegetarian diet vary from animal welfare, health benefits and food safety to environmental and sociopolitical concerns. Surveys suggest that approximately 8% of adolescents in the United Kingdom and 6% of older elementary and high-school students in the midwestern United States…
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Herbal Reality: Valerian
Do herbal preparations really live up to their claims? There are many anecdotal reports that they do make a difference and help people with a variety of ailments. Many websites purport to give information but, for the average consumer, it can be difficult to separate the facts from bias.
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Pop goes the follicle
Alopecia or hair loss is a distressing turn of events for women. The scalp is often afflicted but it can occur on any part of the body. Why does this happen? Are there different types of hair loss?