Higher Levels Of Obesity Associated With Greater Health Risks
The health risks for women who are extremely obese may be underestimated as a new study indicates they have a higher prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol than women at lower levels of obesity, according to a study in the July 5 issue of JAMA.Obesity diagnosis and treatment are typically based on body mass index (BMI) of at least 30. BMI is calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared. [click link for full article]

Shift In Heart Disease Treatment Needed
As the obesity epidemic grows in the United States, the medical community is faced with the significant challenge of properly treating patients before complications such as heart disease arise. But, as obesity expert Louis Aronne, MD, explained, ongoing research into the endocannabinoid (EC) system shows promise in combating obesity and the associated cardiometabolic risks. [click link for full article]

My struggle to be diagnosed with cancer
As boss of Phones 4 U, John Caudwell is used to being in charge. But when he found a lump in his groin, he struggled to persuade his GP that it needed investigation. The diagnosis was testicular cancer - and the delay could have cost him his life

Procedures Beat Meds To Help Patients Fight Obesity, GERD - New Technologies, Safer Options Provide Better Results For GI Disorders
Upper gastrointestinal surgical procedures to treat conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease and obesity are becoming popular options, but the medical community still debates the effectiveness and safety of the procedures. [click link for full article]

Terminology for childhood obesity (AP)
AP - A committee convened by the American Medical Association, the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and others is studying childhood obesity. Among the proposals is the use of clearer language to define the problem for doctors and the public.