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Beauty and the Cancer Beast

Stacy Matson — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Patti Hansen, the supermodel wife of Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards, revealed in the August issue of Vogue magazine that she was diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2007. Hansen, 54, says her symptoms were mild at first. She had been lightly spotting for months - then one morning she urinated blood. A few days later doctors discovered a mass in her bladder. Within a month she was undergoing chemotherapy -which shrunk the tumor but didn't get rid of it completely. Three months after that, she underwent surgery, major surgery.

Cheryl Cole's Killer Vacation?

Stacy Matson — Fri, 9 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Tabloids around the world are reporting that Cheryl Cole has Malaria. I know what you’re thinking. Who is Cheryl Cole? How did she get Malaria?

All Flared Up and Nowhere To Go

Stacy Matson — Thu, 1 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The word 'Arthritis' conjures images of wrinkly, gnarly-jointed old people, right? I know that’s rude but you don’t really imagine a 'healthy' looking young person suffering from Arthritis. Growing up, the only person I’d ever seen with it was my great-grandmother (old). Needless to say I was surprised when a good friend was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis at the age of 35. One day she was fine, playing soccer, and the next she was at the doctor’s office in excruciating pain - being told that she would probably end up in a wheelchair. Her life was turned upside down and it took years before she was able to manage her symptoms with a variety of costly medications. She’s in remission but she still suffers.

Montel Williams - I have MS. It doesn’t have Me.

Stacy Matson — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

'You have MS.' Those were the three words that devastated Montel Williams. The 54 year-old former TV talk show host says, 'I'd heard of Multiple Sclerosis, but I didn't really know what it was. I knew it meant excruciating pain and that eventually I could lose control of my body. I also knew there was no cure. That was enough to plunge me into the depths of despair. I thought the diagnosis was a death sentence.' Montel said the two months following his diagnosis were the darkest moments of his life. He became despondent and attempted suicide twice - once with a gun and once by walking in front of a taxi.

Lady Gaga’s Lupus Face

Stacy Matson — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

As far as musicians go, few have gone from relative obscurity to world domination faster than Lady Gaga. In a few short years she has captivated millions, baffled anyone over 45, and made fellow musicians green with envy. In an era where most musicians struggle to hit the 1 million sales mark Lady Gaga has sold more than 8 million albums and 20 million downloads. She’s also won two Grammy Awards and had four #1 singles from her debut album. She writes her own music and is often (unfairly) compared to early Madonna. And what about her clothes / costumes!? Her theatrical style (really like wearable sculpture) has made her the muse of many of the world’s top designers. Whether you love her or hate her you have to admit that Lady Gaga is unique.

Kevin Costner’s Waterworld Part 2 - Cleaning up the BP oil spill

Stacy Matson — Tue, 1 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

After 40 days and many failed attempts at cleaning up the 210,000 gallons of oil gushing into the Gulf of Mexico every day, British Petroleum has quite possibly found their knight in shining water... Kevin Costner. Yep. Kevin Costner. We now know what he’s been up to for the past 10 years while not making movies.

Body By Baby Food - Jennifer Aniston

Stacy Matson — Wed, 19 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

I’m not quite sure what Jennifer Aniston's beauty regime consists of, but she appears to be aging in reverse. At 41, her skin is beautiful, her body is amazing and her hair is the envy of every woman on the planet. So what's her secret? Baby food.

Barbara Walters’ View from the OR

Stacy Matson — Wed, 12 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Last Monday iconic TV personality Barbara Walters, 80, surprised her View co-hosts and her live audience when she announced that she would be having surgery to replace a faulty heart valve later this week. The notoriously healthy Walters said, 'You know how I always say how healthy I am? I mean it drives you crazy. I never got a cold in 13 years. I’ve never missed a day's work. Well, I'm going to make up for it. Later this week, I'm going to have surgery to replace one faulty heart valve.'

SpongeBob Saves Lives!

Stacy Matson — Thu, 6 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Who lives in a Pineapple and knows the Heimlich? SpongeBob SquarePants!!! We know adults and kids alike find SpongeBob entertaining, but who knew he could help save lives??? A 12 year-old girl from Long Island does. She credits SpongeBob for showing her how to perform the Heimlich maneuver which she later used to save the life of a choking friend.

Bret Michaels - Talk Slurry to Me

Stacy Matson — Mon, 3 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

What kind of Karma God did Brett Michaels anger? The man cannot catch a break. The 47 year-old former lead singer of the 80’s hair band Poison and reality TV star (Celebrity Apprentice/Rock of Love) seems to be having one major health scare after another. The life long Diabetic was admitted to the hospital on April 12 after suffering from uncontrollable vomiting and stomach pains. That night he underwent emergency surgery to remove his appendix. He was later transferred to a diabetic after care facility where he blogged to his fans while he recovered.

Autism & The Rain Man

Stacy Matson — Sat, 24 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

In an effort to increase Autism research and funding, April has been designated National Autism Awareness Month. Autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability in the US, affecting 1 in 110 children (1 in 70 boys). Every 20 minutes, a child is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder making it more common than juvenile diabetes, childhood cancers and pediatric AIDS combined.

A Reasoned Diatribe on Eating in a Healthy Fashion

Bruce Wood — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

You are what you eat. Eating is an agricultural act. (Wendell Berry) These two philosophies neatly sum up what I believe about cooking and eating. As I listen to radio and television reports about the growing medical problems facing our population (adult onset diabetes, stroke, cardiovascular problems & high cholesterol to mention a few of the most obvious) I am struck by the thought that most of these issues are of our own making. We have surrendered control of our diets to companies that do not necessarily have a vested interest in our health. Foods are being produced that are high in sodium content, additives and unhealthy fats. Even foods that are marketed as healthy are not. (More on that later)

Martina Navratilova – 'Get the Bloody Mammogram'

Stacy Matson — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Martina Navratilova is one of the greatest women's tennis players of all time. She’s won every Grand Slam singles title at least twice: Wimbledon-nine times, the Australian Open-three times, the French Open-two times, and the U.S. Open-four times. She retired from professional tennis at the height of her career in 1994, but returned in 2000 to compete in mixed doubles and the women's doubles events. She later won the Australian Open mixed doubles title in 2003 along with her partner Leander Paes, making her the second woman ever to win the singles, doubles and mixed doubles at all four grand slam tournaments. Wow!

La-La Land Loves their Marijuana

Stacy Matson — Thu, 8 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

It's a controversial and very California subject - the legalization of marijuana – it can be as divisive as religion. If you’re pro-legalization you’re equivalent to the drug dealer in the school yard trying to get 10 year old kids high. If you’re anti-legalization you’re a right wing, religious, nut case who doesn’t care if sick people suffer needlessly.

Mesothelioma Sacks Merlin Olsen

Stacy Matson — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Former defensive tackle for the Los Angeles Rams, Merlin Olsen, died last Thursday after a short but intense battle with cancer. He was 69. Olsen was part of the NFL's 'Fearsome Foursome' along with teammates Deacon Jones, Lamar Lundy and Rosey Grier in the 1960’s. Very early in his football career Olsen won several All-American titles, was honored with the Outland Trophy, was voted NFC defensive lineman of the year in 1973, NFL MVP in 1974, and finally voted into the Football Hall of Fame in 1982. Olsen was known as the 'Magician of the Football field'.

Star Jones – Her View on Surgery

Stacy Matson — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Star Jones - outspoken, larger than life, (I’m being nice) former co-host of The View, is in New York recovering from cardiac surgery. According to her rep, 'On Wednesday, March 17th, a pre-planned cardiac surgery was performed on Star Jones. The procedure was successful and she is recovering at home with her family. Star is grateful for everyone's thoughts and prayers.' The procedure was reportedly a scheduled follow-up to a previous surgery Jones had nearly 30 years ago.

Hollywood’s Baby Boom Blues

Stacy Matson — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Every few days we hear that another celebrity is pregnant and we watch as their baby bump grows. We admire/critique their pregnancy style. We have opinions about how much weight they have or have not gained (She’s fat! She’s too skinny!). We read the tabloids to see what their baby shower was like; which celebrities were invited, the amazing gifts received ($4,000 strollers), and what fabulous restaurant catered / sponsored the event (usually for free). It seems like the perfect ending to a perfect pregnancy. Maybe a bit over the top, but that’s what we expect from them, right?

Obama Likes His Butts

Stacy Matson — Tue, 2 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

For most people, their annual physical is nothing more than an inconvenience mixed with a touch of embarrassment. First there’s the time off from work or school. Why can doctors only see you at 2:30 on Thursday? So annoying! Then there’s the waiting…the appointment day arrives, you get there early, and what do they do? They make you freeze to death in the exam room while you wait and wait for the doctor to appear. Finally, you must endure the humiliation of getting very intimate with someone you would probably never give a second glance to, yet they get to see everything you own, if you know what I mean. They end the appointment by telling you what you already know; eat right, exercise, and stop smoking (if you do). Throw in a bit of anxiety, because they may actually find something wrong with you, and that is you’re once a year trip to the doctor. By the time the memory fades it’s time to go back once more.

Bill Clinton - Once a Heart Patient, Always a Heart Patient

Stacy Matson — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Talk about perfect timing! February is National Heart Awareness Month and former President Bill Clinton goes and has a heart attack! Well, kind of, he actually had blocked arteries. But, what better way to bring attention to his new heart health program. 'Let's Move,' is a national campaign designed to help people make better food choices, to get healthier foods in school lunches, to make healthy foods more available and affordable, and to encourage children and adults to exercise.

Celine Dion, Her Spawn Will Go On and On…

Stacy Matson — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Superstar Celine Dion has accomplished a lot in her 41 years. She is the youngest of fourteen children born to a musical family in a rural Canadian town. She began her professional singing career at the age of 12 after a song she wrote was discovered by her (future) record producer husband. She had many successes in Canada but Dion’s international breakthrough came when she recorded the title track to Disney’s 'Beauty and the Beast’ and Titanic’s, ‘My Heart Will Go On’. She has since sold an estimated 220 million albums. More recently, her Las Vegas show, A New Day, ended after a 5 year, sold out run, and became one of the highest grossing concerts in music history, taking in over $400,000,000.

The Heart of the Matter

Stacy Matson — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

February is the month where we celebrate all things “heart”. Not just the little candy hearts or crepe paper valentines but the blood-pumping, keep you alive kind as well. February is National Heart Awareness month and its purpose is to spread the wordabout women and heart disease, its causes, symptoms, and prevention. And what better way to bring attention to something scarythan to partner it with something women REALLY love – FASHION.

Jamie Oliver – A Food Revolution from Across the Pond

Stacy Matson — Fri, 5 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver is on a mission to change America’s eating habits one plate, one school lunch and one impoverished town at a time. Oliver, 34, is well known in the UK where he is a one man food conglomerate. He’s hosted 12 television series and cooking specials, he’s published 15 cook books, and he owns 11 restaurants around the world. He’s built a houseware and lifestyle empire that includes magazines, gourmet foods, and cookware that would make Martha Stewart envious. The man never stops. He blames it on his ADD and nervous energy.

Help the Haitian People - You Still Can!

Stacy Matson — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

One of the poorest and least developed countries in the world, Haiti has struggled with political upheaval, bloody coups, and abject poverty throughout much of its history. Deforestation and over-farming have left much of Haiti’s farmlands destroyed by erosion causing rampant inflation and food rioting. In late 2008, the unstable country was hit by Hurricanes Gustav, Hanna and Ike and Tropical Storm Fay all within a one month period resulting in over $900 million in damages.

Heidi Montag – Plastic Surgery Addict or Fake It Until You Make It!

Stacy Matson — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

One thing I will never understand about Hollywood is how a seemingly illiterate dingbat and her super rude, controlling, obnoxious husband can manage to parlay their offensive personas into a Z-list money making career. Do you know who I’m talking about? If you’ve picked up a tabloid lately you’ll know I’m talking about Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt. The married “Hills” stars have turned their “exciting” life into a profession and are being paid tens of thousands of dollars to show up at public events. They cater to the paparazzi who in turn follow the couple everywhere feeding their over inflated egos. The couple really does nothing more than make Southern Californians look vapid and phony to the rest of the world. I’m kind of angry that I even know who they are. I never thought I would ever give the duo known as “Speidi” (pathetic) the time of day. But here I go.

Casey Johnson + Diabetes + Alcohol + Drugs = Deadly Combination

Stacy Matson — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Seriously troubled socialite Casey Johnson, heir to the Johnson & Johnson billions, was found dead in her L.A. home last week. She was 30 years old. Johnson had apparently been dead for several days before her body was discovered. Johnson was part of a new class of privileged “old money” kids who enjoyed private schools, trust funds and shopping by day and wild parties, drugs, and controversial friends by night (Lindsay Lohan and Paris Hilton).

Exercise is Medicine - Ask Alanis Morissette

Stacy Matson — Sun, 3 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Everyone has felt depressed at some point in their lives; whether you suffer from sporadic bouts of moodiness or full-blown depression the question is always - how do you pick yourself up when you're feeling down? Singer and former child actress Alanis Morissette, 35, has struggled with depression her entire life. Recently, she found a non-pharmacologic, natural, anti-depressant: running!

The Obsessive World of Howie Mandel

Stacy Matson — Fri, 1 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Have you ever wondered what a 'fist bump' is? How do you judge its intent? The fist bump offers a restrained greeting along with a touch of coolness. It’s aloof yet playful. The fist bump sends a more ambiguous message than the handshake, yet its meaning is less friendly than the good old high-five. In most societies, a closed hand is viewed as hostile or confrontational and can lead to cultural misunderstandings among people who are not familiar with a closed hand greeting. Handshakes, in polite society, have typically represented affection, nonaggression, or a business deal completed. The fist bump breaks with hundreds of years of handshake tradition. So why is it so popular?

The 2009 Beauty Recession: Is It Over?

Timothy Neavin, M.D. — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In the city of Los Angeles, where beauty and vanity are the rule, plastic surgery for many is not just a luxury, but a necessity. Even as the Dow dipped to multi-year lows, men and women in the City of Angels have continued to rise above and beyond the standard of beauty. The quest for perfection is not dead in Hollywood, but for some, the idea has been forced to be put on hold. Virtually every economic sector has taken a hit in the last two years, and cosmetic plastic surgery, even in a city where pretty is a priority, has not been immune to the economic anemia. From Wall Street to Main Street, we witnessed cash combusted in a raging savings disco inferno in 2008 and 2009. Is Ugly Street next for 2010?

Don’t be a Scrooge! Santa is Watching

Stacy Matson — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

What is your favorite holiday food? Turkey? Stuffing? Mashed Potatoes? Pumpkin Pie? Candied Yams? Fudge? Cookies? Egg Nog? Mine is stuffing soaked with gravy. Yumm! There’s always an abundance of foods on our holiday table, which means leftovers. Nothing beats leftovers! I love the late night run to the fridge for a big slice of pumpkin pie. My family is a bit odd when it comes to leftovers though. We call it the “1 day rule” which translates to - eat all the leftovers you want the day after the holiday because they’ll be gone the next morning. Wasteful, I know but it is the only way to ensure I don’t gain 15 pounds every year.

Bryant Gumbel Battling Cancer

Stacy Matson — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Here’s another celebrity to add to the growing list of those battling cancer. Bryant Gumbel, 61, shocked T.V. viewers when he announced that he's recovering from cancer surgery. The announcement came while he was co-hosting Live! with Regis and Kelly. The former Today show anchor said that he had surgery two months ago to remove part of his lung along with a malignant tumor from his chest. Gumbel revealed his condition to co-host Kelly Ripa just before going on the air last Tuesday. During the “Host Chat” part of the show, Kelly Ripa told Gumbel that "you just made me almost faint." The two had been talking backstage and Ripa mentioned that she wanted to dance with him in a segment with a woman who dances for exercise. Gumbel resisted, and when Ripa continued, he said he was not allowed to dance as he was recovering from surgery.

Nothing Tastes as Good as Skinny Feels

Stacy Matson — Mon, 7 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In the glamorous, competitive world of entertainment it is understood that for a woman to be successful she needs to have a skeletal appearance. The more famous they are they thinner they become. There is very little talk of what these women do to get that way or how dangerous it may be to maintain such a low body weight. Eating disorders thrive on secrecy and very few celebrities come out and admit they have weight problems, food issues or disorders of any sort. Instead, they claim they’re either naturally thin, genetically blessed, or have a freakishly high metabolism. Right. All jobs have some sort of requirement and being emaciated is clearly a requirement for actresses and models.

The $wine Flu Cassandra

Ted Fish — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

There have been some troubling developments this week.

Gendercide and the Mammogram Conundrum

Stacy Matson — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I am really confused about the latest breast cancer guidelines, and I'm not alone. Many women are reacting with outrage to recommendations that state, "Regular mammograms for women in their 40's may do more harm than good." The guidelines, issued by the United States Preventive Services Task Force, are part of a growing debate focused on routine cancer screenings, particularly for breast and prostate cancer. The controversial findings run counter to advice given by the American Cancer Society and drew immediate criticisms from radiologists, oncologists and breast-cancer survivors around the world.

Alicia Keys Keeps Children Alive

Stacy Matson — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Most people know Alicia Keys for her distinctive music – a blending of R & B, hip hop and classical styles. She is an accomplished pianist who writes songs about love, heartbreak and female empowerment. Her first album, Songs in A Minor, went platinum 6 times. In 2001 she was simultaneously the best-selling new artist and the best-selling R & B artist and she was only 21 years old. Worldwide she’s sold over 30 million albums and won 11 Grammy Awards. But she is so much more than the awards and the music. She’s also a lifesaver. Literally.

Hospitals and Doctors Working Together-What a Concept!

WILLIAM T. CHOCTAW, MD., JD. — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Electronic Health Records (EHRs) are now required by the federal government for both physicians and hospitals that treat government funded patients including Medicare and/or Medi-Caid. The requirement is documented in the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) section of the infamous economic stimulus bill - the 2009 American Reinvestment and Recovery Act.

Jeremy Piven = Soy or Sushi - NOT

Stacy Matson — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Jeremy Piven seems to have a serious case of food OCD. The Entourage actor finds a food he likes and just goes for it - all or nothing. Recently, the 43-year-old actor claimed he developed Mercury poisoning from sushi and was forced to leave a Broadway play he was starring in. Before you swear off sushi, relax, Piven wasn’t just eating the occasional sushi dinner; he was eating A LOT of sushi sometimes twice a day, everyday, for the past 20 years. After giving up sushi he moved on to his latest food obsession - soy milk. And, since we know he isn’t into moderation he found himself drinking up to 12 cups or about 3/4 of a gallon of soy milk a day! That’s a lot of cereal and soy lattes.

Andre Agassi - Just Methin' Around

Stacy Matson — Tue, 3 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Andre Agassi is the latest in a long line of celebs trying to out do each other with their bombshell tell-all memoirs. In his new autobiography “Open” Agassi discusses experimenting with the drug crystal meth in 1997, the moment when he found out he failed a drug test and the lie he told to save himself from a minimum three month suspension. He also sheds light on other curious aspects of his life like; his outfits(crazy), hairstyles (a wig!)and failed relationships with women (Brooke Shields).

Survivor Samoa - Scariest Moment Ever

Stacy Matson — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Be honest, how many of you sit at home on your soft, comfy couch with a glass of water watching Survivor and think 'I could totally do that!'? I do. It can’t possibly be as hard as their making it out to be. Yeah, the contestants look filthy dirty and lose some weight, but really, I thought it was just mugging for the camera. I always though at the end of the day when the cameras were off everyone sat around a campfire roasting marshmallows, eating burgers, and possibly taking a shower before they retire to their 'real' sleeping quarters. The next morning, the costuming crew comes in, gets everyone dirtied up and the cameras start rolling again.

Hugh Hefner Fights For Wounded Warriors

Stacy Matson — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Halloween is quickly approaching and the “What to be? What to do?” dilemma is weighing heavy on me. Do I get dressed up and go to the same old Halloween party or do I stay home in my sweats and pass out candy? Well, unlike me 40 lucky soldiers don’t have to make that choice; they’ll be the guests of Hugh Hefner at the Playboy Mansion’s annual Halloween bash.

Elizabeth Taylor Keeps On Ticking

Stacy Matson — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Last week, Elizabeth Taylor- AIDS activist, perfume magnate, Oscar winner and Hollywood royalty - announced she would be undergoing experimental heart surgery to repair a leaky valve. Ms. Taylor has a long history of medical problems which includes more than 30 surgeries that date back to an injury she received while filming National Velvet in 1944. The actress also suffers from frequent bouts of pneumonia. One incident, while filming Cleopatra, was so severe that she had an emergency tracheotomy. In recent years, Taylor was diagnosed with congestive heart failure, became wheelchair bound due to chronic back problems, had surgery to remove a benign brain tumor, and battled alcohol and drug addiction. Wow!

The Rock v. Diabetes

Stacy Matson — Mon, 5 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Diabetes may have finally met its match, 'The Rock'. Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson is a former championship wrestler for World Wrestling Entertainment, and in recent years he’s starred in movies where he’s fought off aliens, spies, and has saved the world from destruction. Currently, Johnson is the latest in a long line of celebrities to wage war against Diabetes. He’s teamed up with Novo Nordisk, and the Entertainment Industry Foundation, to encourage families to get active together as a way of preventing diabetes.

Congenital Hearts & Adoption Fever Strikes Again

Stacy Matson — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The list of celebrities adopting foreign born children just keeps on growing. Last week, Grey's Anatomy star Katherine Heigl and her husband Josh Kelley announced that they’ve adopted a baby girl from South Korea. The baby’s name is Nancy Leigh but will be called Naleigh. For Heigl, adopting Naleigh was not a publicity seeking move but a long standing wish fulfilled. Heigl was adamant that her first child would be adopted from Korea as a way to show respect to her sister Meg who was also adopted as an infant from Korea. As for her husband, Heigl says that she made her adoption intentions known to him before they married. Heigl says, “Not everybody is down with [adoption]. I just wanted to make sure that I was marrying a guy who understands that this was going to have to happen.” Biological children will follow, but adopting from Korea had to come first.

This is Where the End of Cancer Begins

Stacy Matson — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On September 8th, Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C), the entertainment industry’s charitable initiative that supports groundbreaking cancer research, celebrated the one-year anniversary of their star-studded fundraising event that aired simultaneously on CBS, NBC and ABC in 2008. That night, 50 of the most prominent personalities in television, film, sports and music came together along with millions of Americans and raised more than $100 million for translational cancer research. The event featured celebrities such as Jennifer Aniston, Scarlett Johansson, Meryl Streep, David Cook, Christina Applegate, Lance Armstrong and Jack Black answering phone calls, telling personal accounts of their own battles with cancer, and performing for the audience.

Oh My Aching Head…

Stacy Matson — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I’ve always thought there was something really odd about Cindy McCain. She looks irritated at all times, has a strained expression plastered on her face, and a smile that never quite meets her eyes. And those eyes! Steely, piercing, and icy. Last but not least, she’s always wearing sunglasses! Indoors and out! In case you don’t remember, McCain wore sunglasses religiously throughout her husband’s Presidential campaign; I really have a hard time trusting a person that looks like they’re hiding behind sunglasses. Plus, she strikes me as aloof and cold, never in the moment. However, it seems there is a reason for her cool demeanor...

Powered by Tofu

Stacy Matson — Tue, 8 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

OK. I want to step away from celebrity death doom and gloom. Too depressing. Let’s talk about celebrity diets instead; much more fascinating because there are some really wacky ones out there.

Ideas, Ideology & HealthCare Reform

Mon, 7 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Hiltzik hits a home run in his op 'Healthcare Ideas falling to Ideology' recently published in the LA Times.

RIP-Turntable Master DJ AM

Stacy Matson — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Here we go again; another tragic untimely celebrity death. Late Friday afternoon DJ AM (Adam Goldstein) was found dead in his New York City apartment. He was 36. The circumstances surrounding his death are unclear however a crack pipe and prescription pills were found along side his partially clothed body. As of today, the autopsy has been completed but more tests, including toxicology, are needed to determine the actual cause of death.

To Vaccinate or Not?

Stacy Matson — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I hate vaccines! I don’t believe in them. It took me a long time to get there but I finally feel confident enough to say it out loud! I HATE VACCINES! I’m not the first person to have an opinion against vaccinating. The controversy surrounding this issue has been going on for years.

Sudden Death: Talkin’ About My Generation

Stacy Matson — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The film industry has lost another legend. Last week Sudden Cardiac Arrest appears to have claimed the life of writer/director John Hughes. He died at the age of 59 during a morning walk in Manhattan where he was visiting family. Hughes wrote and directed most of the iconic teen films of the 1980’s such as Ferris Bueller's Day Off, The Breakfast Club, and Pretty in Pink, basically any movie worth watching at the time.

It is the Dictionary

William T. Choctaw MD, JD — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A national speaker at my undergrad college once said, “if you can control the dictionary, you can rule the world.” As physicians we have lost control of the dictionary in healthcare. We no longer control the meaning of terms in the healthcare debate. Many stakeholders, mostly non physicians, are defining everything from quality patient care to physician competence. It is imperative that we doctors regain influence if not full control of the dictionary.

Perfection? At What Price?

Stacy Matson — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In the September issue of Glamour magazine, Jessica Simpson talks openly about her weight fluctuations and body image issues that have plagued her most of her life. "When I was young, I would look at magazines and feel a lot of pressure," says the singer, 29. "As a child of 12, I would write things in my journal like, 'I'm lying here and all I can think about is that my stomach is hanging over my underwear.' That disturbs me even today! There was this idea of perfection I couldn't ever get to.”

Celebrity Detox Diets…A Healthy Choice?

Stacy Matson — Sun, 2 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

One of the hottest trends in weight loss is detox dieting. Celebrities have been touting the benefits of detox cleanses as a way to prepare themselves for red carpet events and movie roles for years and A-list celebrities have relied on these quick fix cleanses to help them maintain Hollywood’s super skinny ideal. Beyonce Knowles famously used The Master Cleanse Diet to lose 20 pounds for her role in Dreamgirls and actress Gwyneth Paltrow recently announced she is starting a 21 day elimination diet called The Clean, which she designed with her doctor.

Healthcare Reform is Already Here!

William T. Choctaw MD, JD — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As one listens to the constant drum of punditry in the news media, it might seem that healthcare reform may only occur if the Obama administration wins certain votes such as the Blue Dog Democrats in Congress. The truth is, healthcare reform began months ago and is rapidly picking up steam.

Beastie Boy Battles Cancer

Stacy Matson — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Adam "MCA" Yauch, one of the founding members of the rap group the Beastie Boys, announced this week that he has cancer. In a video posted on the Beastie Boys web site Yauch describes his symptoms and diagnosis, “about two months ago I started feeling this little lump in my throat, checked with my doctor and was told I actually have a form of cancer in the salivary gland, the parotid gland, and also in the lymph node." Yauch says he will undergo surgery next week with radiation treatments to follow.

ER Star’s Real Life Drama

Stacy Matson — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Former ER star, Maura Tierney, is involved in her own personal medical drama. The 44 year old actress was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and will be undergoing surgery to remove a tumor. In an interview, Tierney explains that she found a lump during a routine breast self exam, "I have discovered a tumor in my breast which requires surgery. I will not know either my exact diagnosis or course of treatment until that surgery is performed." She said that her doctors advised her "this is a very treatable condition," and she's "very optimistic as to the outcome."

Swine Flu Hits Hog...Warts

Stacy Matson — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Swine Flu, or H1N1, has infected its most famous victim to date. Rupert Grint, who plays Ron Weasley in the Harry Potter series, recently announced that he had contracted the virus. Although he had only a mild case of "Swine Flu", the actor was forced to take time off from filming Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, which is currently shooting in Britain.

Sleepless in Hollywood

Stacy Matson — Mon, 6 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

What do Heath Ledger, Anna Nicole Smith, Jimi Hendrix, Marilyn Monroe, and now Michael Jackson have in common? Insomnia, prescription drugs, and premature death.

A Liver for an Apple

Stacy Matson — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

After months of speculation about his health it was announced that Steve Jobs, CEO of Apple, Inc. underwent a liver transplant two months ago at Methodist University Hospital in Memphis. In 2004, Jobs was diagnosed with a form of pancreatic cancer called islet cell neuroendocrine tumor. His liver failure is a possible complication related to pancreatic cancer.

Jennie Garth Goes Red for Women

Stacy Matson — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Jennie Garth has joined forces with Go Red For Women to promote their new online Go Red BetterU program. You may remember her from Beverly Hills 90210 and Dancing with the Stars. She announced recently that she suffers from a leaky heart valve (valve regurgitation) which occurs when the heart’s valves do not close tightly causing blood to leak backwards forcing the heart to work harder to pump the same amount of blood.

Barbie and Breast Cancer

Health WorldNet — Sun, 7 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The ubiquitous pink ribbon – everyone knows it symbolizes the search for a breast cancer cure. But now, not only is the pink ribbon everywhere, it seems that the whole world has turned pink. You can buy a pink frying pan or spatula, pink Barbie doll or boxing gloves, pink M&Ms or tic tac breath mints, even a limited edition Ford Mustang with a 'Pink Package!' These pink product purchases generate money for breast cancer research, mammograms for detection or treatment help for people without means.

STARS IN ALIGNMENT: PHYSICIANS MUST LEAD

William T. Choctaw MD, JD — Thu, 28 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Finally, there appears to be strong leadership from the federal government to get something done in the area of health care reform. In the latest issue of the National Journal, Ronald Brownstein examines the steps the Obama Administration is taking to engage stakeholder groups on key legislative issues and how President Obama's "inclusive nature" may yield dividends for health care reform.

And you thought botulism was a bad thing?

Mon, 18 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Most of us first heard of the botulinum toxin being used to treat wrinkles. We knew it was a form of botulism, but we didn't care - it temporarily turned back the clock (or cloak if you will) of time.

How Can You Afford Your Medications?

Dr. Cary Presant — Wed, 6 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The cost of medications is increasing daily. Drug expenses and even just the cost of the co-payments associated with medicines have frequently become so high that many patients do not take their medications as prescribed, and find themselves either skipping medications or stopping a prescribed medicine altogether. Such individuals when faced with high drug costs have been making decisions that are harmful to their care, when they should be discussing the problems with their physician.

Is Salmon No Longer King?

TheHWNTeam — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

We heard and read the stories that NorthWest salmon has dwindled to new historic lows but now it seems even the Omega 3 health benefits derived from eating "wild salmon" is also threatened.

HIPAA on Steroids and the Obama Stimulus Plan

William T. Choctaw MD, JD — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act was passed by Congress in 1996 and its detailed implementation was initiated by the Department of Health and Human Services in 1998. The law was designed to make health insurance portable for employees, to improve health process accountability by eliminating fraud and abuse, and provide some administrative simplification for providers and payers.

CANCER - THE MOST PREVENTABLE CHRONIC DISEASE

Dr. Cary Presant — Thu, 9 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The most feared disease is also the most preventable chronic illness. Cancer, which affects one out of every two men and one out of every three women in the United States, is the disease that Americans fear the most. But thanks to recent progress, cancer is also the most preventable disease! The four most common diseases, breast cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, and colon cancer, all have methods of prevention as well as easy methods for early detection. So everyone needs to make certain that they themselves, and all of their loved ones are following all the recent recommendations. To have the best chance of preventing any cancer, each person should discuss cancer prevention measures with their primary care physician.

EMRs and Implantable Chips - The Future or Today?

Health WorldNet — Tue, 7 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Perhaps someday Verichip or another ID chip company will be so pervasive that a quick body scan will provide instantaneous medical information at the scene of an emergency.

Talk and Die Syndrome - Helmets and Rapid Medical Assessment

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The tragic death of Natasha Richardson from a fall at a ski resort brings to the forefront the fact that people who sustain head trauma, no matter how innocuous, may indeed have an ongoing underlying traumatic brain injury which if not recognized and managed within hours can result in devastating complications including death.

Dental Spas

Ryan Wyn, D.D.S. — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Health spas, Medical spas, Pet spas, Day spas and now Dental spas which represent one of the latest innovations in dental care - a concept long overdue that tries to bring more comfort to a setting that is commonly associated with shots, high pitch drills, and pain.

Socialized Medicine: An Outdated Pejorative

William T. Choctaw MD, JD — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Consensus has developed that the US healthcare system is broken and needs to be fixed.

Stem cells, Jumping Genes, Banting and Canadians eh!

the HWN Team — Fri, 6 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A new technique utilizing a jumping gene published in the Journal Nature by Canadian researchers may someday revolutionize the way stem cells are harvested.

Kidney Dialysis - Can We Save Billions of Dollars?

The HWN Team — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Could an existing group of commonly used and relatively inexpensive prescription drugs save billions of dollars worldwide in healthcare costs. A doctor in Missouri, USA seems to think so.

Electronic Medical Records vs The Status Quo... Can We Change?

The HWN team — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The idea of Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) originated about 40 years ago but despite the entry in the past two years by the digital gorillas Microsoft with HealthVault and Google with Google Health, the overall medical marketplace still has not embraced EMRs with open arms.

GOAT'S MILK - MAY MAKE SOMETHING EVEN BETTER THAN GOAT CHEESE

The HWN team — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

For those of us who look at genetic engineering with some fear and trepidation, something positive and perhaps good for all is coming out of a farm in Massachusettes. The goats are being genetically engineered to produce a human protein in their milk that prevents the dangerous formation of blood clots.

The Passing of a Legend: Michael Crichton

Fri, 9 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

His new novel was scheduled to be released in a month or so but he died unexpectedly. Michael Crichton, the great author and film director died of cancer on November 4,2008. In his lifetime, Crichton didn’t win a Pulitzer or a national book award for his writings, however, his books sold as many as 150 million copies around the globe.

Google Geeks take on the Flu

The HWN team — Tue, 6 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A new website Google Flu Trends recently launched by Google.org has raised the bar for tracking the Flu in the United States by creating an earlier warning system than the current conventional system.

Malaria - Are We Finally Approaching Eradication?

HWN Team — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

According to the Institute for One WorldHealth,'Malaria causes 300 -500 million acute illnesses and over one million deaths annually. Ninety percent of deaths due to malaria occur in Sub-Saharan Africa, but there is also high prevalence in countries of Asia and Latin America. Today approximately 40% of the world's population (mostly those living in the world's poorest countries) is susceptible to malaria.'

A Healthier World Blog Launches Today

The Health WorldNet Team — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As Health WorldNet evolves we routinely run across multiple new health and medical websites which begs the question 'How in the world are people going to find out about this wealth of information?'

Besides including them in Health WorldNet, the need to share this information has inspired HWN to start a blog....A Healthier World.

We may blog about a website one day or a hot issue or even a company or person making news. We'll even toss in an occassional guest blogger or feature another blog's statement, and like most blogs we will welcome your input.

the HWN team