30 Public Health Moment http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/ School of Public Health at the University of Minnesota "Public Health Moment", "School of Public Health", "University of Minnesota" Weekly 90-second health segments featuring University of Minnesota public health experts. en Copyright 2009 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 10:30:15 -0600 http://www.sixapart.com/movabletype/?v= 4.25 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/images/phm-144.jpg Public Health Moment from the University of Minnesota School of Public Health http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/ 144 144 Health no School of Public Health at the University of MInnesota enge@umn.edu Teen Car Accident Fatalities and GDL Pinar Karaca-MandicMotor vehicle accidents is the No. 1 cause of death for American teenagers.

In an effort to reduce this rate many states have adopted graduated driver's licensing standards — or GDL — for these young drivers.

But has GDL been effective? That's what University of Minnesota researcher Pinar Karaca-Mandic is trying to find out.

Listen to Karaca-Mandic on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/11/teen_car_accident_fatalities_a.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/11/teen_car_accident_fatalities_a.html Health Policy Mon, 09 Nov 2009 10:30:15 -0600 Health care reform will continue after this year Lynn BlewettWhether or not Congress votes to include the hotly debated Public Option plan in its health reform legislation this year, the overall bill will fall short of comprehensive reform, says Lynn Blewett, an associate professor of health policy at the University of Minnesota.

For example, she says, the bill will fall short of providing health insurance for all of the nation's 46 million uninsured.

Blewett believes a bill will definitely pass this year, but it will be the start of ongoing, incremental reform.

Listen to Blewett on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/10/health_care_reform_will_contin.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/10/health_care_reform_will_contin.html Health Policy Tue, 27 Oct 2009 10:52:30 -0600 Surgical Treatments for Breast Cancer Beth VirnigOctober is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States, aside from skin cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 192,370 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed among women in the United States this year. And about 40,170 women are expected to die from the disease in 2009 alone.

Surgical Treatments

For women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer, surgery is the typical treatment.

But that surgery can take one of two forms, says University of Minnesota professor Beth Virnig, who studies treatments for breast cancer.

She says it can be either mastectomy or breast-conserving surgery, otherwise known as lumpectomy.

Beginning the early 1990s, a major effort was made by oncologists to reduce the rate of mastectomy by favoring lumpectomy and radiation therapy. The thought was that lumpectomy was less invasive and had equivalent survival results.

Since then, mastectomy rates have dropped, Virnig says.

Rates for double mastectomy rise

But she and other researchers have noticed a recent increase in the number of double mastectomies.

Virnig encourages more research to learn why but also offers advice to women, in this installment of Public Health Moment.

Listen to Virnig on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/10/surgical_treatments_for_breast.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/10/surgical_treatments_for_breast.html Cancer Mon, 19 Oct 2009 14:03:07 -0600 National School Lunch Week Jamie StangOct. 8 through 12 is National School Lunch Week, a time to recognize this program that serves 31 million U.S. students each day.

In this installment of Public Health Moment, Jamie Stang, a University of Minnesota assistant professor and nutrition expert, talks about the program's origins.

She also discusses the relatively new Farm-to-Schools movement, under which many schools are starting to buy foods locally. Stang says that Minnesota is a leader in this area.

Listen to Stang on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/10/national_school_lunch_week_1.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/10/national_school_lunch_week_1.html Nutrition and Fitness Thu, 08 Oct 2009 09:54:01 -0600 Overweight Youth and Disordered Eating Tendencies Dianne Neumark-SztainerOverweight youth with certain socio-environmental, psychological, and behavioral tendencies are more likely to suffer from eating disorders.

These tendencies include reading magazine articles about dieting, reporting a lack of family connectedness, and placing a high importance on weight.

That's according to research led by Dianne Neumark-Sztainer, a University of Minnesota professor of epidemiology.

Listen to Neumark-Sztainer on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/09/overweight_youth_with_certain.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/09/overweight_youth_with_certain.html Obesity Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:44:21 -0600 H1N1: Who is at risk? What are the symptoms? John FinneganState health officials report that the flu is now widespread in Minnesota. While not all of the cases are the swine flu, or H1N1, officials believe it's playing a big role in the upsurge.

So, what are the symptoms? We asked John Finnegan, dean of the University of Minnesota School of Public Health.

He says the symptoms are similar to those of seasonal influenza - they include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting.

Finnegan also explains when someone should seek medical care.

Listen to Finnegan on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/09/h1n1_who_is_risk_what_are_the.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/09/h1n1_who_is_risk_what_are_the.html Infectious Diseases Thu, 17 Sep 2009 13:59:02 -0600 Tanning Beds and Skin Cancer Risk Lazovich.jpgFor many Midwesterners, the tanning bed is a necessity of life. Now, it's also officially a cancer-causing agent, according to the World Health Organization.

In a recent report, the WHO's International Agency for Research on Cancer states that there is a causal link between ultraviolet radiation produced by tanning beds and cancer.

DeAnn Lazovich a University of Minnesota cancer epidemiologist, explains.

Based on this report and her own research, Lazovich offers advice.

Listen to Lazovich on Public Health Moment


]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/09/tanning_beds_and_skin_cancer_r_1.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/09/tanning_beds_and_skin_cancer_r_1.html Cancer Wed, 09 Sep 2009 12:07:39 -0600 The link between smoking, high blood pressure and dementia Alvaro AlonsoMiddle-age individuals who smoke, have high blood pressure, or have diabetes run a high risk of being hospitalized for dementia later in life.

That's according to a research study of more than 11,000 people, led by Alvaro Alonso, a University of Minnesota epidemiologist.

Alonso adds that this research provides one more reason why people should quit smoking and concentrate on improving their cardiovascular health.

Listen to Alonso on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/08/the_link_between_smoking_high.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/08/the_link_between_smoking_high.html Cardiovascular Health Thu, 20 Aug 2009 15:23:50 -0600 Minnesota tied for lowest childhood obesity rate Jamie StangA new report from the Trust for America's Health finds that Minnesota kids have the lowest rate of obesity in the nation - tying with Utah at just over 23 percent.

Jamie Stang, a nutrition expert at the University of Minnesota, says that obesity rates vary dramatically by region of the country.

Stang says that Minnesota's relatively low rate of childhood obesity is due in large part because our children are more active than those in many other parts of the country.

Listen to Stang on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/07/minnesota_tied_for_lowest_chil.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/07/minnesota_tied_for_lowest_chil.html Obesity Thu, 23 Jul 2009 08:25:30 -0600 Diabetes and Depression Mark PereiraWomen with diabetes are 85 percent more likely to suffer from depression during or following pregnancy. That's according to research involving more than 50,000 women.

University of Minnesota epidemiologist Mark Pereira was a co-author of the study.

Pereira recommends that pregnant women, especially those with diabetes, consult closely with their doctor to ensure their health and the health of their baby.

Listen to Pereira on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/07/diabetes_and_depression.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/07/diabetes_and_depression.html Maternal and Child Health Fri, 10 Jul 2009 09:20:14 -0600 The Vitality Project aims to improve health of entire community lytle.jpgAlbert Lea, Minnesota is the center of an innovative, ten-month pilot project designed to improve the health and life expectancy of people who live and work there.

It's called the AARP Blue Zones Vitality Project.

Leslie Lytle, a University of Minnesota epidemiology professor, is co-director of the project.

She says that instead of focusing on diet and exercise, the project encourages the best practices of the world's longest-lived populations with strategies such as making it easier to get around on and encouraging the development of social networks.

Listen to Lytle on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/06/the_vitality_project_aims_to_i.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/06/the_vitality_project_aims_to_i.html Special Projects Thu, 25 Jun 2009 11:17:49 -0600 Smoking bans do not cause economic harm Forster_Jean.jpgSmoking bans do not cause economic harm to bars and restaurants. That's according to a study led by epidemiologist Jean Forster from the University of Minnesota.

Forster and colleagues used state-mandated reporting data from 10 Minnesota cities for the years 2003 to 2006. That was before the introduction of a statewide smoking ban, but at a time when a number of local cities had adopted their own full or partial bans.

Forster says that smoking bans are an effective way to protect people--especially bar and restaurant employees--from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.

• Listen to Forster on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/06/smoking_bans_do_not_cause_econ.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/06/smoking_bans_do_not_cause_econ.html Environmental Health Tue, 09 Jun 2009 15:11:46 -0600 Burned and charred meat can increase your risk of pancreatic cancer Kristin AndersonPeople who regularly eat red meat that is very well done, burned or charred may increase their risk of pancreatic cancer by almost 60 percent.

That's according to a 9-year study that involved more than 62,000 people.

The study was led by Kristin Anderson, a University of Minnesota cancer epidemiologist.

Anderson recommends turning down the heat when you grill meats and says that you should trim away any burned or charred portions.

• Listen to Anderson on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/05/burned_and_charred_meat_can_in.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/05/burned_and_charred_meat_can_in.html Cancer Wed, 27 May 2009 11:13:52 -0600 Disparities in Health Coverage kathleen callOverall, Minnesota ranks high for the percentage of residents with health insurance.

But Kathleen Call, a professor and health policy expert at the University of Minnesota, says that when one looks closer, you see great disparity.

She says that providing health care access to the uninsured will actually save money in the long term.

• Listen to Call on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/05/disparities_in_health_coverage.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/05/disparities_in_health_coverage.html Health Policy Wed, 20 May 2009 13:24:11 -0600 Health Information Technology jeff mcculloughThe use of health information technology has had little or no effect on improving patient safety.

That's according to research led by Jeff McCullough, a health policy expert at the University of Minnesota. Despite this, McCullough says it's still too early to judge the effectiveness of health IT. He adds that that more research is needed to see ensure that the technology is worth the investment.

What is health information technology? McCullough explains.

• Listen to McCullough on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/05/health_information_technology.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/05/health_information_technology.html Health Policy Tue, 05 May 2009 08:38:57 -0600 Fast Food Intake Rises for Adolescents Kate BauerAdolescents are eating more fast food today than they did in the late-1990s. And as kids move from middle school to high school the rate increases dramatically.

That's according to new results from the Project EAT research study at the Univesity of Minnesota.

Researcher Katherine Bauer explains the findings and offers advice to parents.

• Listen to Bauer on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/04/fast_food_intake_rises_for_ado.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/04/fast_food_intake_rises_for_ado.html Special Projects Wed, 22 Apr 2009 11:58:12 -0600 Hormone Therapy and Colorectal Cancer Jill JohnsonWomen who have taken menopausal hormone therapy have a lower risk of developing colorectal cancer. That's according to a study of more than 56,000 postmenopausal women over 15 years.

University of Minnesota researcher Jill Johnson led the study.

While this appears to be good news, it runs counter to other studies showing an increased risk of breast cancer associated with women who used hormone replacement therapy.

Johnson says more research is needed.

• Listen to Johnson on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/04/hormone_therapy_and_colorectal.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/04/hormone_therapy_and_colorectal.html Cancer Mon, 13 Apr 2009 14:47:21 -0600 Binge Drinking in the Military Mandy StahreBinge drinking is common among active-duty military personnel and is strongly associated with many health and social problems, including problems with job performance and alcohol-impaired driving, according to a new study released by the University of Minnesota and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

But what is binge drinking and what can be done to reduce its prevalence?

We asked Mandy Stahre, a University of Minnesota doctoral candidate and first author of the study.

• Listen to Stahre on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/04/binge_drinking_in_the_military.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/04/binge_drinking_in_the_military.html Health Policy Tue, 07 Apr 2009 15:37:26 -0600 Older adults not getting enough nutrition Pam Schreiner
Many middle-aged and older Americans are not getting adequate nutrition -- even those taking dietary supplements.

That's according to a study involving 6,200 people, ages 45 to 84. The study included African Americans, Chinese, Hispanics, and whites.

Pam Schreiner, a University of Minnesota epidemiologist, led the study.

Schreiner says she believes that more education and more prevention are needed.

Listen to Schreiner on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/03/older_adults_not_getting_enoug.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/03/older_adults_not_getting_enoug.html Aging Tue, 24 Mar 2009 12:04:32 -0600 Study: Prostate cancer screening does not lower death rate Tim ChurchBeing screened for prostate cancer does not appear to reduce your chance of dying from the disease.

That's according to a new report from the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian (PLCO) Cancer Screening Trial than 76,000 men.

The finding is important because there are negative consequences to screening, says Tim Church, a University of Minnesota expert on cancer screenings.

Listen to Church on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/03/post_4.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/03/post_4.html Cancer Thu, 19 Mar 2009 09:16:14 -0600 Too much TV leads to poor diet Barr-AndersonThe more TV that teenagers watch, the worse that they eat. That's according to a University of Minnesota study led by Daheia Barr-Anderson.

She says that kids who watched more than five hours of TV per day ate fewer fruits, vegetables and whole grains and more snack foods, fried foods and trans fats years later.

She recommends that parents limit TV time for their children to less than two hours a day and promote healthier foods.

• Listen to Barr-Anderson on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/03/too_much_tv_leads_to_poor_diet.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/03/too_much_tv_leads_to_poor_diet.html Special Projects Wed, 04 Mar 2009 13:02:18 -0600 Winter Weight Gain Jamie StangIt's been a long winter and if you're like the average person, you've likely noticed that your clothes are fitting a bit tighter. Why is it that we seem to gain weight in colder months?

We asked Jamie Stang, a nutrition expert at the University of Minnesota.

Listen to Stang on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/02/winter_weight_gain.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/02/winter_weight_gain.html Obesity Wed, 18 Feb 2009 10:49:45 -0600 Eating on the Run Nicole LarsonYoung adults who take the time to sit down and share a meal with others rather than eating on the run are more likely to have a healthy diet, according to research led by Nicole Larson, a nutrition expert at the University of Minnesota.

Larson surveyed more than 1,600 men and women with an average age of 20 and a half years old.

Listen to Larson on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/02/eating_on_the_run.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/02/eating_on_the_run.html Special Projects Mon, 09 Feb 2009 14:59:24 -0600 Infants and Obesity ellen demerathResearch tells us that babies who gain weight rapidly have twice the risk of obesity compared to babies with more gradual weight gain. But researchers know little about how much weight gain in babies is fat as opposed to lean tissue.

University of Minnesota researcher Ellen Demerath, using the latest technology, aims to find out.

Her project is titled the Minnesota Infant Nutrition and Neurodevelopment Obesity Study. Or Minnows.

Listen to Demerath on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/01/infants_and_obesity.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/01/infants_and_obesity.html Maternal and Child Health Thu, 29 Jan 2009 13:39:48 -0600 Stress and Disordered Eating katie LothCan the breakup in a relationship, the divorce of your parents, or the death of a loved one prompt teens and young adults to engage in disordered eating habits?

Yes, according to findings from the Eating Among Teens research study at the University of Minnesota. Katie Loth, a University of Minnesota researcher, explains more about disordered eating.

• Listen to Loth on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/01/stress_and_disordered_eating.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/01/stress_and_disordered_eating.html Special Projects Thu, 22 Jan 2009 11:05:41 -0600 Radon Awareness raynor.jpgAccording to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, about 20,000 Americans die each year of lung cancer caused by exposure to radon. What is radon and what can we do to minimize our risk?

We asked Pete Raynor, an environmental health scientist at the University of Minnesota.

• Listen to Raynor on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/01/radon_awareness.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2009/01/radon_awareness.html Environmental Health Tue, 13 Jan 2009 09:29:48 -0600 Keeping Your New Year's Resolution to Lose Weight Melissa NelsonHow do you keep that resolution to lose weight in the New Year? Start by making realistic goals. That's according to Melissa Nelson, a University of Minnesota epidemiologist.

• Listen to Nelson on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/12/keeping_your_new_years_resolut_1.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/12/keeping_your_new_years_resolut_1.html Obesity Wed, 31 Dec 2008 18:26:19 -0600 The Nation's Coal Supply and Pandemic Preparedness Nick KelleyGovernment officials have failed to adequately address protections for coal miners and for the delivery of coal during a pandemic. That's according to a report from the University of Minnesota's Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy, or CIDRAP.

CIDRAP researcher Nick Kelley says that the coal industry must have safeguards to keep water and sewerage systems running, lights on, and critical drugs available during an inevitable pandemic.

• Listen to Kelley on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/12/the_nations_coal_supply_and_pa.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/12/the_nations_coal_supply_and_pa.html Infectious Diseases Thu, 18 Dec 2008 08:05:04 -0600 It's Flu Shot Season Ed EhlingerFlu season is upon us. Each year about 200,000 Americans are hospitalized with complications from influenza and about 36,000 people die each year.

The best prevention is to get a flu shot, says Ed Ehilinger, director of Boynton Health Service at the University of Minnesota. He explains who is most at risk and also discusses his related study that involves college students.

• Listen to Ehlinger on Public Health Moment

• Go to Public Health Scene to listen to an extended interview with Ehlinger

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/12/its_flu_shot_season.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/12/its_flu_shot_season.html Infectious Diseases Tue, 09 Dec 2008 09:54:44 -0600 Emergency Preparedness Training Programs Deb OlsonThe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has awarded $8.2 million to the University of Minnesota to develop improved training in public health preparedness. Minnesota is one of seven universities to be awarded the grant.

Debra Olson, the lead researcher, said one of the main goals is to develop educational training opportunities for the public health workforce that are effective and efficient. She said that, among other things, researchers will look at improving existing training models.

• Listen to Olson on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/11/emergency_preparedness_trainin.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/11/emergency_preparedness_trainin.html Other Tue, 25 Nov 2008 10:49:01 -0600 Increased Risk of Death Tied to HIV Therapy Jim NeatonAn increased risk of death from diseases other than AIDS has been tied to a therapy designed to help HIV-positive people.

Jim Neaton, a University of Minnesota biostatistician who led the study, says that the results indicated that patients receiving antiretroviral therapy for HIV had increased risk of death linked to three biomarkers.

• Listen to Neaton on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/11/increased_risk_of_death_tied_t.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/11/increased_risk_of_death_tied_t.html AIDS Thu, 13 Nov 2008 11:17:49 -0600 Plastic bottles, BPA, and Your Health Bill ToscanoHigher levels of Bisphenol A - or BPA - a chemical compound used in some plastic packaging for food and beverages, are associated with cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and liver-enzyme abnormalities.

That's according to a recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Bill Toscano, an environmental health professor at the University of Minnesota, explains why this study is unique.

• Listen to Toscano on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/11/plastic_bottles_bpa_and_your_h.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/11/plastic_bottles_bpa_and_your_h.html Environmental Health Wed, 05 Nov 2008 10:09:56 -0600 Health Care Policy and the Presidential Election Roger FeldmanHealth care is a prominent issue in the presidential election and both candidates have plans for how they would fix health care and provide health coverage to the more than 47 million Americans who are now uninsured.

Roger Feldman, a health policy expert at the University of Minnesota, has used a micro-simulation model to evaluate each plan.

• Listen to Feldman on Public Health Moment

• Listen to an extended interview at our Public Health Scene blog

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/10/health_care_policy_and_the_pre.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/10/health_care_policy_and_the_pre.html Health Policy Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:32:44 -0600 Talk About Prescriptions to Your Doctor Judy GarrardAccording to the Institute of Medicine there are about 1.5 million adverse prescription drug events each year that are preventable. That's one reason that the National Council on Patient Information and Education is promoting October as Talk About Prescriptions Month.

Judy Garrard, a University of Minnesota professor who is an expert in the use of medications by the elderly, explains why that simple message is so important.

• Listen to Garrard on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/10/talk_about_prescriptions_to_yo.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/10/talk_about_prescriptions_to_yo.html Other Wed, 22 Oct 2008 11:18:09 -0600 National School Lunch Week Mary StoryAbout 31 million children participate daily in the National School Lunch Program, which this week celebrates National School Lunch Week.

Mary Story, a nutrition expert at the University of Minnesota, says that schools have made good progress in the last decade in providing kids with more nutritious meals.

• Listen to Story on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/10/national_school_lunch_week.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/10/national_school_lunch_week.html Nutrition and Fitness Thu, 16 Oct 2008 11:20:03 -0600 Breast Cancer Awareness Kristin AndersonBreast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States. This year, nearly 180,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. And about 40,000 women will die from the disease.

Who is at risk and what are the risk factors?

We asked Kristin Anderson, a cancer epidemiologist at the University of Minnesota.

• Listen to Anderson on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/10/breast_cancer_awareness.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/10/breast_cancer_awareness.html Cancer Wed, 08 Oct 2008 12:29:51 -0600 Social Oppression, Homosexuality, and Health Simon RosserFor more than 150 years, scholars and educators have debated whether homosexuality is an objective disorder or whether social oppression, not homosexuality, leads to the higher rates of depression, drug use, and HIV in gay men.

In a study of 422 Midwestern gay and bisexual men, Simon Rosser, a University of Minnesota epidemiologist, found that in all cases, internalized negative attitudes about homosexuality predicted poorer mental health.

• Listen to Rosser on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/09/post_3.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/09/post_3.html AIDS Tue, 30 Sep 2008 12:47:07 -0600 The Health Benefit of Whole Grains Lyn SteffenEach year the Whole Grains Council promotes September as Whole Grains Month.

Why are whole grains important for our diet? We asked Lyn Steffen, a University of Minnesota expert on nutrition.

• Listen to Steffen on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/09/the_health_benefit_of_whole_gr.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/09/the_health_benefit_of_whole_gr.html Nutrition and Fitness Tue, 23 Sep 2008 13:57:03 -0600 Healthy Aging Lyn SteffenSeptember is Healthy Aging Month, a campaign intended to focus attention on the positive aspects of growing older.

Lyn Steffen, a University of Minnesota epidemiologist, says that it's important for seniors to adopt healthy dietary practices in order to better manage chronic conditions.

• Listen to Steffen on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/09/healthy_aging.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/09/healthy_aging.html Aging Thu, 18 Sep 2008 08:33:24 -0600 Alcohol Sales in Sports Stadiums Traci ToomeyA new University of Minnesota study found that three out of four people posing as intoxicated fans and one out of five trying to pass as underage drinkers succeeded in buying alcohol at sports stadiums around the country.

Researcher Traci Toomey, who led the study, has more.

Listen to Toomey on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/09/alcohol_sales_in_sports_stadiu.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/09/alcohol_sales_in_sports_stadiu.html Alcohol Thu, 11 Sep 2008 12:43:38 -0600 Prostate Cancer Screening Tim ChurchA national task force of has recommended that doctors stop screening men ages 75 and older for prostate cancer because the search for the disease in this group was causing more harm than good.

The PSA or Prostate Specific Antigen test is the screening method that doctors use, says Tim Church, a University of Minnesota expert on cancer screenings.

• Listen to Church on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/09/prostate_cancer_screening_1.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/09/prostate_cancer_screening_1.html Cancer Thu, 04 Sep 2008 08:47:58 -0600 Binge Drinking on Campus Toben NelsonWhat is the cause of binge drinking among college students? A new 14-year study links it to college culture -- campus environments that allow easy access to inexpensive alcohol and have weak control policies and lax enforcement.

Toben Nelson, a University of Minnesota epidemiologist who worked on the study, has more.

Listen to Nelson on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/08/binge_drinking_on_campus.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/08/binge_drinking_on_campus.html Alcohol Thu, 28 Aug 2008 13:44:17 -0600 PFCs and Lake Johanna Matt SimcikIn the first study of its kind locally, University of Minnesota researchers are analyzing perfluorochemical levels--or PFCs--of Lake Johanna, a St. Paul suburban lake that contains high PFC levels but is not connected to any known source of PFCs.

Matt Simcik, a University of Minnesota professor of environmental health, says what he learns in Lake Johanna will be beneficial for other lakes in Minnesota and the United States.

• Listen to Simcik on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/08/pfcs_and_lake_johanna.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/08/pfcs_and_lake_johanna.html Environmental Health Tue, 19 Aug 2008 09:10:45 -0600 Alcohol and Homicides Rhonda Jones-WebbA new study has found that poor neighborhoods with high concentrations of African Americans had higher homicide rates and significantly greater numbers of off-sale alcohol stores than other neighborhoods.

Rhonda Jones-Webb, a University of Minnesota epidemiologist, says this study was unique because it looked at neighborhoods rather than individuals.

• Listen to Jones-Webb on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/08/alcohol_and_homicides.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/08/alcohol_and_homicides.html Alcohol Tue, 05 Aug 2008 09:50:10 -0600 Obesity Rate Stabilizes Melissa NelsonChildhood obesity has been on the rise for more than 20 years. Now, however, the rate appears to have stabilized.

Melissa Nelson, a University of Minnesota expert on nutrition and obesity, says the news should be greeted with cautious optimism.

• Listen to Nelson on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/07/obesity_rate_stabilizes.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/07/obesity_rate_stabilizes.html Obesity Tue, 29 Jul 2008 09:55:31 -0600 Rise in Health Insurance Premiums Lynn BlewettOver the last five years, employer-based health insurance premiums have increased 10 times faster than workers' incomes.

That's according to a study from the University of Minnesota's State Health Access Data Assistance Center.

Associate Professor Lynn Blewett led the study.

• Listen to Blewett on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/07/rise_in_health_insurance_premi.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/07/rise_in_health_insurance_premi.html Health Policy Wed, 23 Jul 2008 09:35:17 -0600 Fish Consumption Advisories matt simcikA diet that includes fish provides an excellent source of low-fat protein and may reduce your risk of heart disease and diabetes.

But fish can contain contaminants such as mercury that can harm human health.

Matt Simcik, a University of Minnesota professor of environmental health sciences, recommends following the Minnesota fish consumption guidelines.

• Listen to Simcik on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/07/fish_consumption_advisories.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/07/fish_consumption_advisories.html Environmental Health Fri, 18 Jul 2008 09:58:39 -0600 Summer Grilling Tips Kristin AndersonIt's peak summer grilling season—an especially important time to follow some basic cooking guidelines.

For example, don’t burn or char meat. Studies indicate it may lead to cancer.

That’s according to Kristin Anderson, a University of Minnesota cancer epidemiologist.

• Listen to Anderson on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/07/summer_grilling_tips.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/07/summer_grilling_tips.html Other Tue, 08 Jul 2008 12:15:45 -0600 Sleep and Mortality PaudelGetting a good night's sleep appears to be important factor for health and longevity for people of all ages—but especially for older adults.

A University of Minnesota study involving 3,000 men over age 67 found higher mortality rates among those whose sleep patterns were irregular and whose activity levels were uneven.

Researcher Misti Paudel has more.

• Listen to Paudel on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/07/sleep_and_mortality.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/07/sleep_and_mortality.html Obesity Thu, 03 Jul 2008 09:00:00 -0600 Salmonella and Tomatoes Craig HedbergMore than 500 people in 32 states have become sick after eating tomatoes carrying salmonella bacteria.

Craig Hedberg, a University of Minnesota expert in food-borne disease, says that we're seeing an increase because people are eating more fresh fruits and vegetables and also because public health officials are doing a better job of identifying outbreaks.

• Listen to Hedberg on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/06/salmonella_and_tomatoes.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/06/salmonella_and_tomatoes.html Environmental Health Mon, 30 Jun 2008 19:25:24 -0600 Overweight Teens and Dieting Dianne Neumark-SztainerIf your teenager is overweight, don't encourage him or her to go on a diet—it might make matters worse.

That's according to a new study led by Dianne Neumark-Sztainer, a University of Minnesota expert on nutrition, obesity, and disordered eating.

• Listen to Neumark-Sztainer on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/06/overweight_teens_and_dieting.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/06/overweight_teens_and_dieting.html Obesity Tue, 24 Jun 2008 13:58:19 -0600 The Online Gay Community Simon RosserOnline communities may be displacing physical communities for gays around the world. That's according to a new study by Simon Rosser, an epidemiologist at the University of Minnesota.

With HIV cases on the increase, Rosser says the Internet could and should be used to promote HIV prevention.

• Listen to Rosser on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/06/the_online_gay_community.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/06/the_online_gay_community.html AIDS Mon, 09 Jun 2008 14:36:11 -0600 LDL and Metabolic Syndrome David JacobsResearchers have found that people with high oxidation levels of LDL, or low-density lipoprotein—a particle that carries cholesterol throughout the blood—are much more likely to develop metabolic syndrome.

David Jacobs, a University of Minnesota epidemiologist, was the lead researcher of this study.

• Listen to Jacobs on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/06/ldl_and_metabolic_syndrome.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/06/ldl_and_metabolic_syndrome.html Cardiovascular Health Tue, 03 Jun 2008 16:26:11 -0600 Asthma Awareness John AdgateAsthma is a chronic disease of the lungs that affects about 20 million Americans.

According to John Adgate, an associate professor of environmental health sciences at the University of Minnesota, asthma is on the rise.

• Listen to Adgate on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/05/asthma_awareness_1.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/05/asthma_awareness_1.html Environmental Health Wed, 28 May 2008 17:46:46 -0600 Reduce your risk of stroke Kamakshi LakshminarayanAbout 780,000 Americans each year suffer a stroke. And stroke kills more than 150,000 people a year, making it the No. 3 cause of death behind heart disease and cancer.

Who is at risk? People with high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol, smokers, heavy drinkers, and those who are obese.

Dr. Kamakshi Lakshminarayan, a University of Minnesota neurologist, explains what you should do to lower your risk.





Listen to Lakshminarayan on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/05/reduce_your_risk_of_stroke_1.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/05/reduce_your_risk_of_stroke_1.html Cardiovascular Health Thu, 22 May 2008 15:20:14 -0600 National Physical Fitness Month Melissa NelsonMay is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, an annual campaign intended to get people of all ages more engaged in physical activity.

How much physical activity is recommended for children and adults? Melissa Nelson, a University of Minnesota epidemiologist, has the answer.

• Listen to Nelson on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/05/national_physical_fitness_mont.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/05/national_physical_fitness_mont.html Nutrition and Fitness Wed, 14 May 2008 19:36:02 -0600 The Importance of Vitamin D Kim RobienAt least 60 percent of Americans are deficient in vitamin D. That's according to a survey of blood tests by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

University of Minnesota nutritionist Kim Robien tells us why vitamin D is important for our health.





• Listen to Robien on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/05/the_importance_of_vitamin_d.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/05/the_importance_of_vitamin_d.html Nutrition and Fitness Wed, 07 May 2008 19:23:35 -0600 Pandemic Practices Web Site Jill DeBoerA Web site developed by the University of Minnesota serves as a national clearinghouse for best practices in pandemic preparedness for local and state health departments.

Jill DeBoer, director of the University's Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy, tells us more about the site, called Promising Practices: Pandemic Preparedness Tools.





• Listen to DeBoer on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/04/pandemic_practices_web_site_1.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/04/pandemic_practices_web_site_1.html Infectious Diseases Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:34:02 -0600 Teens and TVs in the Bedroom Barr-AndersonResearchers have found that teen-agers who have televisions in their bedrooms are more likely to engage in unhealthy habits than those without TVs in their rooms.

That's according to a study led by University of Minnesota epidemiologist Daheia Barr-Anderson.

• Listen to Barr-Anderson on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/04/post_2.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/04/post_2.html Nutrition and Fitness Tue, 22 Apr 2008 17:06:14 -0600 Adolescents and Fast Food Nicole LarsonMore than 20 percent of adolescent males and females consume fast food more than three times a week.

That's according to research by Nicole Larson, an epidemiologist at the University of Minnesota. She tells us why this is a concern.

• Listen to Larson on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/04/adolescents_and_fast_food.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/04/adolescents_and_fast_food.html Nutrition and Fitness Wed, 16 Apr 2008 14:38:39 -0600 It's National Public Health Week! John FinneganApril 7 through 13 is National Public Health Week.

John Finnegan, dean of the University of Minnesota School of Public Health tells us that the theme this year is Climate Change: Our Health in the Balance.

• Listen to Finnegan on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/04/its_national_public_health_wee.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/04/its_national_public_health_wee.html Other Mon, 07 Apr 2008 19:44:38 -0600 Polyps and Glucose Levels Andrew FloodA new study has identified elevated glucose levels in patients as one factor in the recurrence of adenomatous polyps. These are benign polyps that can lead to colorectal cancer.

The four-year study followed 715 patients who had had a polyp removed. University of Minnesota epidemiologist Andrew Flood, one of the study's authors, has more.

• Listen to Flood on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/04/polyps_and_glucose_levels.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/04/polyps_and_glucose_levels.html Cancer Tue, 01 Apr 2008 19:00:56 -0600 Alcohol prevention and 'tweens' Keryn PaschA new study has found that adolescents who already use alcohol are less receptive to prevention programs aimed at all students.

According to University of Minnesota epidemiologist Keryn Pasch, intervening at earlier ages, specifically between third and fifth grade, would provide more support for high-risk students.

• Listen to Pasch on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/03/6th_graders_and_alcohola_new_s.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/03/6th_graders_and_alcohola_new_s.html Alcohol Wed, 26 Mar 2008 16:28:12 -0600 National Nutrition Month Kim RobienMarch is National Nutrition Month, which provides health professionals another opportunity to encourage people to eat healthy foods and stay or become more physically active.

University of Minnesota nutritionist Kim Robien has more.

• Listen to Robien on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/03/national_nutrition_month.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/03/national_nutrition_month.html Nutrition and Fitness Tue, 18 Mar 2008 21:55:51 -0600 Cancer Survivors Return to Work Nancy NachreinerMore cancer survivors are returning to the workforce, thanks to improved screening and treatment. But little is known about what helps these employees return to work successfully.

Recently, Nancy Nachreiner, a University of Minnesota occupational health professor, conducted focus groups with cancer survivors--women ages 31 to 54. She learned that job flexibility, active involvement from health care providers, and coworker support, were keys to a successful return.

• Listen to Nachreiner on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/03/cancer_survivors_return_to_wor.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/03/cancer_survivors_return_to_wor.html Cancer Mon, 10 Mar 2008 14:52:36 -0600 National School Breakfast Week Jamie StangThis is National School Breakfast Week, a campaign to educate students and families about the importance of breakfast and the benefits of the National School Breakfast Program.

The federal program began in 1960s as a pilot project to provide free breakfast to children from low-income families. It became permanent in 1975. University of Minnesota nutritionist Jamie Stang tells us more.

• Listen to Stang on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/03/national_school_breakfast_week.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/03/national_school_breakfast_week.html Health Policy Tue, 04 Mar 2008 14:54:51 -0600 College Life and Obesity Toben NelsonThe transition from high school to college is associated with dramatic declines in physical activity.
During this same time, students tend to eat more foods high in fat and sodium and drink more sweetened beverages.

This helps explain the increase in overweight and obesity among college students. That's according to research involving more than 30,000 college students. University of Minnesota epidemiologist Toben Nelson was the lead researcher.

• Listen to Nelson on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/02/college_life_and_obesity.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/02/college_life_and_obesity.html Obesity Wed, 27 Feb 2008 20:02:39 -0600 Minnesota's Healthy Hearts john finneganOver the last 10 years, the death rate from heart disease has dropped 45 percent in Minnesota--faster than in any other state. That's according to a report from the American Heart Association.

John Finnegan, dean of the University of Minnesota School of Public Health says there are several reasons for this good news.

• Listen to Finnegan on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/02/minnesotas_healthy_hearts_1.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/02/minnesotas_healthy_hearts_1.html Cardiovascular Health Thu, 21 Feb 2008 03:36:51 -0600 Diabetes and Colorectal Cancer Andrew Flood-a.jpgWomen with diabetes are 50 percent more likely to suffer colorectal cancer than those who do not have the metabolic disorder.

That's according to a study of 45,000 women led by University of Minnesota epidemiologist Andrew Flood.

• Listen to Flood on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/02/diabetes_and_colorectal_cancer.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/02/diabetes_and_colorectal_cancer.html Cancer Fri, 15 Feb 2008 01:04:38 -0600 Diet and the Metabolic Syndrome Pam LutseyToo much meat, fried foods, and diet soda can increase your risk of developing metabolic syndrome, a condition that can lead to heart disease and diabetes. Dairy products, on the other hand, appear to reduce the risk of developing metabolic syndrome.

That's according to a University of Minnesota study involving ninety-five hundred people. The study was co-auathored by Pamela Lutsey.

• Listen to Lutsey on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/02/diet_and_the_metabolic_syndrom.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/02/diet_and_the_metabolic_syndrom.html Cardiovascular Health Wed, 06 Feb 2008 17:05:32 -0600 The Importance of Studying Real Food David Jacobs In order to learn more about the health benefits of food, researchers have typically focused on individual nutrients, such as beta carotene, calcium, and vitamin E.

But David Jacobs, a University of Minnesota epidemiologist, believes that scientists need to examine food itself.

• Listen to Jacobs on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/01/the_importance_of_studying_rea.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/01/the_importance_of_studying_rea.html Nutrition and Fitness Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:53:29 -0600 Gout may reduce risk of Parkinson's disease Alvaro AlonsoIf you have gout--a form of arthritis--you may have a lower risk of acquiring Parkinson's disease. That's according to a study of 8,000 people in the United Kingdom.

Alvaro Alonso, a University of Minnesota epidemiologist, was one of the lead researchers.

• Listen to Alonso on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/01/gout_may_reduce_risk_of_parkin.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/01/gout_may_reduce_risk_of_parkin.html Other Wed, 23 Jan 2008 14:21:25 -0600 The Benefits of Family Meals Dianne Neumark-SztainerGirls who eat meals regularly with their families are less likely to use diet pills, laxatives, or other extreme measures to control their weight.

That's according to a five-year study involving more than 2,500 Minnesota adolescents. Dianne Neumark-Stzainer, a University of Minnesota epidemiologist, led the study.

• Listen to Neumark-Sztainer on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/01/the_benefits_of_family_meals.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/01/the_benefits_of_family_meals.html Nutrition and Fitness Mon, 14 Jan 2008 15:45:53 -0600 e-Public Health Simon RosserThe Internet is undoubtedly the most powerful communications tool of our time. At the University of Minnesota, epidemiology professor Simon Rosser is using it to advance public health through online research and interventions. He calls it "e-Public Health."

• Listen to Rosser on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/01/epublic_health.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2008/01/epublic_health.html Other Tue, 08 Jan 2008 15:14:49 -0600 Holiday Eating Melanie JaebIt's the holiday season. A time for family, friends, and food. Oftentimes, too much food.

But Melanie Jaeb, a registered dietician at the University of Minnesota, says that by cutting down on portion sizes, we can enjoy all of our favorite holiday foods, while maintaining our weight.

• Listen to Jaeb on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/12/holiday_eating.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/12/holiday_eating.html Nutrition and Fitness Wed, 19 Dec 2007 17:59:19 -0600 Binge Drinking Toben NelsonThe Upper Midwest has some of the highest rates of binge drinking in the United States. The tragic death of 21-year-old Mankato woman is the most recent example.

Toben Nelson, a University of Minnesota epidemiologist, has advice for parents.

• Listen to Nelson on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/12/binge_drinking.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/12/binge_drinking.html Alcohol Mon, 10 Dec 2007 21:27:35 -0600 Handwashing Awareness Week Jill DeBoerThis week is National Handwashing Awareness Week. Keeping our hands clean is one of the most important steps we can take to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others.

That's according to Jill DeBoer, associate director of the University of Minnesota Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy.

• Listen to DeBoer on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/12/handwashing_awareness_week.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/12/handwashing_awareness_week.html Infectious Diseases Mon, 03 Dec 2007 14:50:22 -0600 Health Policy and the Presidential Election Susan FooteHealth care is emerging as the number one domestic issue in the 2008 presidential election. For that reason, Susan Foote, a health policy professor at the University of Minnesota, says voters need to pay attention and ask themselves some questions.

• Listen to Foote on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/11/health_policy_and_the_presiden.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/11/health_policy_and_the_presiden.html Health Policy Mon, 26 Nov 2007 15:53:39 -0600 Rural Emergency Department Staffing Challenges Michelle CaseyDoctors and nurses in emergency rooms at rural hospitals are less likely to have advanced training in trauma life support than those in urban areas.

That's according to health policy researcher Michelle Casey of the University of Minnesota.

• Listen to Casey on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/11/rural_emergency_department_sta.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/11/rural_emergency_department_sta.html Health Policy Tue, 20 Nov 2007 16:04:19 -0600 Coffee Consumption and Diabetes Mark PereiraDrinking several cups of coffee each day may lower your risk of type 2 diabetes.

The finding comes from an 11-year study of more than 28,000 postmenopausal women. University of Minnesota epidemiologist Mark Pereira was the study's lead researcher.

• Listen to Pereira on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/11/coffee_consumption_and_diabete.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/11/coffee_consumption_and_diabete.html Nutrition and Fitness Fri, 09 Nov 2007 21:31:47 -0600 Children's Health Study Pat McGovernThe University of Minnesota has been awarded nearly $14 million over five years to lead a national study assessing the effects of both environmental and genetic factors on children's health. The lead researcher is University of Minnesota professor Pat McGovern.

• Listen to McGovern on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/11/childrens_health_study.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/11/childrens_health_study.html Environmental Health Tue, 06 Nov 2007 15:04:06 -0600 Seasonal Influenza Jill DeBoerBetween 5 and 20 percent of Americans will fall ill this year from seasonal influenza. Symptoms include fever, headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Your best defense against the flu is to have a flu vaccination each year, says Jill DeBoer, associate director of the University of Minnesota's Center for Infectious Disease Research & Policy.

• Listen to DeBoer on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/10/seasonal_influenza.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/10/seasonal_influenza.html Infectious Diseases Mon, 29 Oct 2007 22:24:04 -0600 Planning for an Emergency Andrea HickleIn the case of an emergency, such as the pandemic flu or a natural disaster, would you and your family be prepared?

If not, MERET, a program at the University of Minnesota, may be able to help. Project coordinator Andrea Hickle has more.

• Listen to Hickle on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/10/planning_for_an_emergency.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/10/planning_for_an_emergency.html Other Wed, 24 Oct 2007 18:28:40 -0600 Lung Cancer and Minnesota Miners Jeff MandelThe relationship between respiratory disease and mining work has been a continuing concern in northeastern Minnesota, where unusually high rates of mesothelioma--a rare and fatal form of cancer--have been reported among males since the late 1980s. Jeffrey Mandel, an environmental health sciences professor at the University of Minnesota, is helping lead an effort to find out why.

• Listen to Mandel on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/10/lung_cancer_and_minnesota_mine.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/10/lung_cancer_and_minnesota_mine.html Cancer Tue, 16 Oct 2007 17:49:07 -0600 Children's Health Insurance Lynn BlewettLast week, President Bush vetoed a $35 billion expansion of the 10-year-old State Children's Health Insurance Program, or S-CHIP.

S-CHIP was created to provide health insurance for families of low-income children who didn't qualify for Medicaid and couldn't afford private insurance. Lynn Blewett, a health policy professor at the University of Minnesota, says the current debate centers on how much to expand the program.

• Listen to Blewett on Public Health Moment

• Download "Leave S-CHIP Alone," by Lynn Blewett (PDF)

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/10/childrens_health_insurance_1.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/10/childrens_health_insurance_1.html Health Policy Sun, 07 Oct 2007 17:45:43 -0600 Peripheral Arterial Disease hirsch_Alan.jpgThree out of four American adults know little or nothing about peripheral arterial disease or PAD, a common blockage of blood vessels in the legs that boosts heart risk. That's according to a report co-authored by Dr. Alan Hirsch, a professor of epidemiology and community health at the University of Minnesota.

• Listen to Hirsch on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/10/pperipheral_arterial_disease.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/10/pperipheral_arterial_disease.html Cardiovascular Health Wed, 03 Oct 2007 14:11:25 -0600 Eat Your Fruits and Vegetables Stang_Jamie.jpgFewer than 1 in 5 Americans eat the recommended daily amount of fruits and vegetables, says Jamie Stang, a professor and nutrition expert at the University of Minnesota. She says a balanced diet that includes five to 12 servings of fruits and vegetables provides many health benefits.

• Listen to Stang on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/09/eat_your_fruits_and_vegetables.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/09/eat_your_fruits_and_vegetables.html Nutrition and Fitness Fri, 21 Sep 2007 21:14:58 -0600 Youth Access to Alcohol Traci ToomeyNearly 20 percent of young males are willing to purchase alcohol for underage youth when approached outside of a store that sells alcohol. That's according to research by University of Minnesota epidemiologist Traci Toomey.

• Listen to Traci Toomey on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/09/post_1.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/09/post_1.html Alcohol Mon, 17 Sep 2007 15:35:40 -0600 Cholesterol Awareness Russell LuepkerSeptember is National Cholesterol Education Month, an annual campaign to alert people to have their cholesterol levels checked and to take steps to lower it, if need be.

The general consensus is that anything greater than 200 for total cholesterol is too high, according to Dr. Russell Luepker, a University of Minnesota professor of epidemiology.

• Listen to Russell Luepker on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/09/cholesterol_awareness.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/09/cholesterol_awareness.html Cardiovascular Health Mon, 10 Sep 2007 15:05:16 -0600 Number of Blood Donors Fewer Than Previously Estimated Bill RileyOnly 37 percent of Americans are eligible to donate blood--much fewer than previous estimates. That's according to a study co-authored by Bill Riley, a healthcare management professor at the University of Minnesota.

• Listen to Bill Riley on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/09/number_of_blood_donors_fewer_t.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/09/number_of_blood_donors_fewer_t.html Health Policy Tue, 04 Sep 2007 15:12:07 -0600 Alcohol Advertising and Youth Pasch.jpgAdolescents who attend schools in neighborhoods where alcohol advertisements are prominent are more likely to drink alcohol. That's according to Keryn Pasch, lead author of the study conducted by the University of Minnesota and University of Florida.

• Listen to Keryn Pasch on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/08/alcohol_advertising_and_youth.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/08/alcohol_advertising_and_youth.html Alcohol Mon, 27 Aug 2007 15:12:06 -0600 National Immunization Awareness Month Patterson_Joan.jpgAugust is National Immunization Awareness Month. As kids head back to school, it's a good reminder for parents to make sure that their children are up to date with their vaccinations, says Joan Patterson, a University of Minnesota epidemiologist.

• Listen to Joan Patterson on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/08/national_immunization_awarenes.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/08/national_immunization_awarenes.html Infectious Diseases Mon, 20 Aug 2007 14:54:51 -0600 Relaxation Therapy and Foot Ulcers Rice_B.jpgA new relaxation therapy to improve the healing of chronic foot ulcers in patients with diabetes was successful for 14 of 16 people involved in a recent clinical trial. The therapy was based on research conducted at the University of Wisconsin by Birgitta Rice, a public health researcher now at the University of Minnesota.

• Listen to Birgitta Rice on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/07/relaxation_therapy_and_foot_ul_1.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/07/relaxation_therapy_and_foot_ul_1.html Other Tue, 31 Jul 2007 16:45:03 -0600 Hypertension and Physical Activity David JacobsYoung adults who are physically active are less likely to develop high blood pressure. That's according to researchers at the University of Minnesota School of Public Health. Lead researcher David Jacobs says that the results were from 15 years of research involving more than 4,000 people.

• Listen to David Jacobs on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/07/hypertension_and_physical_acti.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/07/hypertension_and_physical_acti.html Cardiovascular Health Mon, 23 Jul 2007 14:45:21 -0600 Universal Health Care Jim HartNearly two-thirds of Minnesota physicians believe a single-payer universal health insurance system would provide the best value for Minnesota patients, according to research led by Dr. Jim Hart, an assistant professor at the University of Minnesota School of Public Health.

• Listen to Dr. Jim Hart on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/07/universal_health_care.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/07/universal_health_care.html Health Policy Mon, 16 Jul 2007 19:38:09 -0600 Fish Consumption Guidelines Deb SwackhamerMinnesota, home of 10,000 lakes, leads the nation in the number of fishing licenses sold per capita.

But is it safe to eat the fish we catch?

It's an important question because fish can contain contaminants such as mercury, says Deb Swackhamer, a professor of environmental health sciences at the University of Minnesota.

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]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/07/fish_consumption_guidelines.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/07/fish_consumption_guidelines.html Environmental Health Mon, 09 Jul 2007 16:02:37 -0600 Summer Safety Nancy NachreinerThis week, families across the United States will be involved in numerous events as they celebrate summer and the independence of our country.

To ensure that our fun time is also safe, Nancy Nachreiner, a professor of environmental health sciences at the University of Minnesota, recommends a dose of common sense.

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]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/07/summer_safety.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/07/summer_safety.html Environmental Health Mon, 02 Jul 2007 14:37:59 -0600 Summer Food Safety Craig HedbergSummer is here--a season when many of us cherish the time we spend at family picnics or at the backyard BBQ grill. But it's also a time to take special care in how we handle and cook food, says Craig Hedberg, a food-safety expert at the University of Minnesota.

Listen to Hedberg on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/06/summer_food_safety.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/06/summer_food_safety.html Nutrition and Fitness Fri, 22 Jun 2007 16:48:13 -0600 Prostate Cancer Screening Tim ChurchMore than 200,000 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year and 27,000 will die. Yet there is no clear evidence that being screened for prostate cancer is beneficial, says Tim Church, a University of Minnesota expert on cancer screenings.

• Listen to Tim Church on Public Health Moment

]]> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/06/prostate_cancer_screening.html http://blog.lib.umn.edu/sphpod/moment/2007/06/prostate_cancer_screening.html Cancer Mon, 11 Jun 2007 17:31:57 -0600