KFDA - Health Watch

Moore residents continuing clean up, volunteers needed for future

Leslie Aguilar — Thu, 23 May 2013 00:08:00 EDT

Amarillo Native Debbie Roger's home barely escaped destruction. Her house is located just three streets over from the path of the EF-5 twister.

More local women with breast cancer

Jessica Abuchaibe — Fri, 17 May 2013 23:55:00 EDT

Free screenings are saving the lives of many area women. Dozens who couldn't afford mammograms are having breast cancer detected early.

Testing for the breast cancer gene

Heather Geller — Fri, 17 May 2013 19:10:00 EDT

Amarillo, Texas - Genetic testing for breast cancer has been making headlines. Early detection is the best way to prevent breast cancer.

Look for new, improved sunscreen labels

Fri, 17 May 2013 10:50:00 EDT

New labeling laws for sunscreen will help American consumers choose the product that provides the best sun protection, experts say.

End-of-life care controversy

Jessica Abuchaibe — Wed, 15 May 2013 20:16:00 EDT

Amarillo, TX- You could help save a loved one on life-support with new proposed legislation. Texas law allows a doctor to end a person's life if they believe treatment is not working.

Erectile dysfunction tied to long-term narcotic use in men

Wed, 15 May 2013 15:01:00 EDT

If you're a man, the pain-killing medications known as opioids may do more than relieve pain -- they may also put a damper on your sex life.

Heart failure clinical trial launched in Amarillo

Heather Geller — Tue, 14 May 2013 19:53:00 EDT

Amarillo, Texas - Doctors are saying a new clinical trial for heart failure patients could revolutionize the cardiology field.

Area doctors to participate in cardiac function study

Tue, 14 May 2013 12:36:00 EDT

Some of our area doctors will be the first in the nation to participate in a cardiac function study.

Increased funding for mental health services in Texas

Ashley Paredez — Tue, 14 May 2013 11:42:00 EDT

Texas - Additional funding has been approved for several health services in Texas. Lawmakers are continuing to negotiate a two-year state budget but they've made some progress Monday night.

911 dispatchers get training on suicide prevention

Heather Geller — Fri, 10 May 2013 22:32:00 EDT

Amarillo, Texas - Local 911 dispatchers agree, suicide rates have increased. We all know to call 911 in an emergency, like a fire or car accident.

New study: parents should suck child's pacifier

Colleen Nelson — Thu, 9 May 2013 19:47:00 EDT

If your child's pacifier falls on the floor, a new study shows not cleaning it off may have some benefits. This controversial study comes from Sweden. Researches say if a parent quickly sucks on the

Snack Pak 4 Kids expands to help middle schoolers

Heather Geller — Wed, 8 May 2013 21:12:00 EDT

Amarillo, Texas - Childhood hunger is a growing problem in the panhandle. A local group is expanding it's effort to help in the fight against it.

More turning to alternate skin cancer treatment

Jessica Abuchaibe — Wed, 8 May 2013 20:18:00 EDT

Younger and younger people in our area are discovering they have sun damage on their skin. And there's a process that's helping treat many of these patients.

Diabetic alert dog gives more freedom to locals

Colleen Nelson — Wed, 8 May 2013 00:43:00 EDT

Diabetes affects nearly one in every ten people in Texas. For a rare few, traditional treatments don't work. But, more people are turning to dogs for help.

Fifth Disease seen in area children

Jessica Abuchaibe — Tue, 7 May 2013 23:55:00 EDT

More area children are developing a contagious rash this year and schools are letting parents know about it. Dozens of children are going to local doctors with Fifth Disease.

Some antidepressants may raise risk for gastro infection

Tue, 7 May 2013 16:59:00 EDT

People who take certain types of antidepressants may be at higher risk for potentially deadly Clostridium difficile infection, a new study suggests.

More kids diagnosed with mental health disabilities

Tue, 7 May 2013 10:19:00 EDT

Significantly more U.S. children have a neurodevelopmental or mental health disability than did a decade ago, according to new research.

Suicide rates on a rise

Colleen Nelson — Tue, 7 May 2013 07:30:00 EDT

Suicide is now responsible for killing more Americans than car accidents according to a new report released by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Local nurse finds passion in her work

Leslie Aguilar — Sun, 5 May 2013 21:19:00 EDT

It's a career path with plenty of opportunities available in our area right now, but nursing not a job everyone has the patience for.

New program gives support to first-time mothers in Amarillo area

Emily Griffin — Fri, 3 May 2013 23:35:00 EDT

First-time mothers in the Amarillo area now have the chance to have a few helping hands come to their aid during some of those trying times.

Fewer local teen pregnancies

Jessica Abuchaibe — Fri, 3 May 2013 21:12:00 EDT

Amarillo, TX - Hundreds more area students are learning it's "Worth the Wait". Local teen pregnancy rates are decreasing and a local nonprofit program is helping out.

Oklahoma hospital searches for solutions to financial problems

Emily Griffin — Fri, 3 May 2013 00:03:00 EDT

One Oklahoma county could soon be left without a hospital if community leaders can't come up with solutions to solve its financial problems.

Lipsticks, glosses contain toxic metals

Thu, 2 May 2013 17:20:00 EDT

Lipsticks and lip glosses apparently give you more than colorful kissers, according to a new study by California scientists that contends the products contain lead, cadmium, chromium, aluminum and five other toxic metals.

White House to challenge ruling on unlimited access to 'morning-after' pill

Thu, 2 May 2013 14:59:00 EDT

The Obama administration announced late Wednesday that it would appeal a federal judge's order to eliminate any age restrictions on who can buy morning-after birth control pills without a prescription.

Area dairy farmers reinvent milk with new protein shake

Leslie Aguilar — Thu, 2 May 2013 09:59:00 EDT

A new protein drink will appear on store shelves in the panhandle this week. It's a product twenty years in the making for 92 area dairy farmers.

New availability for morning after pill

Heather Geller — Wed, 1 May 2013 19:20:00 EDT

Amarillo, Texas - Young girls will soon have more access to emergency contraceptives. Girls as young at 15 years-old will soon be able to purchase the morning after pill without a prescription. The FDA

ER visits tied to Ambien on the rise

Wed, 1 May 2013 14:59:00 EDT

There has been a dramatic increase in the number of emergency-room visits related to sleep medications such as Ambien, according to a new U.S. study.

Respiratory & strep infections rise

Jessica Abuchaibe — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 20:36:00 EDT

More people in the area are becoming sick with respiratory and strep infections.

Bilingual medical staff need grows with population

Heather Geller — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:49:00 EDT

Amarillo, Texas - There is now a greater demand for bilingual medical staff here in the panhandle due to the ever growing Hispanic population.

FDA: Morning-after pill to move over-the-counter

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 18:42:00 EDT

WASHINGTON - The government is moving the morning-after pill over the counter but only those 15 and older can buy it - an attempt to find middle ground just days before a court-imposed deadline to lift all age restrictions on the emergency contraceptive.

Texas Veterans Commission works to 'Beat the VA Backlog'

Emily Griffin — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 18:05:00 EDT

Since 2010, the number of backlogged disability claims for Texas veterans has more than doubled, and those wait times only continue to increase.

Health insurance shortfalls hit nearly half of U.S. adults

Sat, 27 Apr 2013 08:58:00 EDT

Nearly half of all working-age U.S. adults, or 84 million people, faced the prospect of crippling medical bills in 2012 because they had little or no health insurance.

Roadside breath test for drugs could be on horizon

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 17:38:00 EDT

A roadside breathalyzer test for marijuana, cocaine and other illegal drugs could be a step closer to reality, thanks to new research.

Blood donors needed after early morning shooting

Ashley Paredez — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 14:04:00 EDT

Amarillo, TX - Thursday morning's shooting is putting a strain on an area blood bank. We spoke with Coffee Memorial Blood Center and they tell us they are in desperate need of donors.

U.S. heart failure costs could skyrocket

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 10:15:00 EDT

The number of Americans with heart failure could rise 46 percent, from 5 million in 2012 to 8 million in 2030, new research says.

Prescription drug abuse up among US teens

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 14:58:00 EDT

The United States appears to be in the throes of a prescription drug abuse crisis among teens, with a new survey showing that 24 percent of high school students -- more than 5 million kids -- have abused these medications.

Cinnamon challenge causing more injuries

Ashley Paredez — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 12:56:00 EDT

Doctors are warning about the dangers of the cinnamon challenge. Poison control centers across the country are seeing the number of calls regarding the trend among teens skyrocket.

Tulsa Dental Developments

Colleen Nelson — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 11:16:00 EDT

New developments in the Tulsa dental case are showing more people are testing positive for infectious diseases.

More area residents taking allergy shots

Jessica Abuchaibe — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 10:04:00 EDT

More area residents are suffering from allergies, and it's causing them to turn to shots for relief. For many the sneezing, drainage, and congestion is being helped by allergy shots.

CareNet Annual Fundraiser

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 11:09:00 EDT

An area agency is celebrating 25 years today.

UPDATE: Tulsa dentist investigation

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 11:05:00 EDT

Tulsa OK - An investigation into a Tulsa dentist accused of serious health violations has already turned up 60 infected patients.

Amarillo group shines light on preventing child abuse/neglect

Emily Griffin — Sat, 20 Apr 2013 22:37:00 EDT

Every eleven seconds, a U.S. child is reported abused or neglected.

New pregnancy and drinking study

Heather Geller — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 21:47:00 EDT

Amarillo, Texas - Very light drinking while pregnant may not have harmful effects. Fifteen percent of women in the U.S. reportedly drink while pregnant.

VA moves to process oldest disability claims first

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 19:17:00 EDT

WASHINGTON - Veterans waiting more than a year for a decision on their disability claims are moving to the front of the line, under a new program announced Friday.

Imaging technology aids local chiropractors

Jeff Stebbins — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 07:59:00 EDT

Amarillo, TX - Local chiropractors have adopted a technology called "3D Body View," which scans a patient's feet to diagnose spinal problems.

Blood center: Donors needed after West explosion

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 09:45:00 EDT

A blood center that serves Central Texas hospitals says donors are greatly needed due to the massive plant explosion that has injured more than 160 people.

Human gene patent case goes to Supreme Court

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 12:14:00 EDT

The question of whether human genes can be patented is at the center of a case to be heard Monday by the U.S. Supreme Court.

Group raising awareness about area child abuse

Leslie Aguilar — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 10:46:00 EDT

The number of abused or neglected children in the panhandle is on the rise, but an area organization is doing all they can to stop it.

Texans urged to prepare for West Nile Season

Ashley Paredez — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 10:43:00 EDT

Texas - Residents across Texas are being urged to prepare for the West Nile season. Mosquitos were recently caught in four traps in the Dallas County suburb of Richardson.

Changes to psychiatry's 'bible' could widen definition of ADHD

Sat, 13 Apr 2013 08:58:00 EDT

Experts believe several changes in psychiatry's 'bible' will broaden both the definition and diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder -- ADHD.

Area blood centers helping out after Dallas crash

Heather Geller — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 19:03:00 EDT

Amarillo, Texas - The panhandle is being called on to assist those injured in the Irving bus crash. Co

Borger Health Fair and Blood Drive

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 11:38:00 EDT

Borger and Hutchinson County residents will have a chance to give the gift of life.

Tulsa dentist lawsuit

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 11:08:00 EDT

Tulsa, OK - The first lawsuit has been filed against a Tulsa, Oklahoma dentist accused of endangering patients.

Making sure medicines are safe & effective

Jessica Abuchaibe — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 20:38:00 EDT

Area doctors and students are finding out more ways to ensure drugs are safe and effective. They went to a presentation by the Food and Drug Administration. The Acting Director of Generic Drugs Kathleen

Tattooing to benefit autism awareness

Heather Geller — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 20:01:00 EDT

Amarillo, Texas - Autism now affects one in every 50 people. Tyler Townes will be holding a marathon next week to benefit autism awareness and research. But his marathon doesn't involve walking or running,

Texas mechanic saves life

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 12:46:00 EDT

Tyler, TX - A 99-year-old Texas man was suffering from a stroke, and it just so happened that his mechanic called him right when it was happening.

Bill would change policy in Texas homes for disabled

Jeff Stebbins — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 06:30:00 EDT

Amarillo, TX - A bill in the Texas Senate would change current policy in state-sponsored homes for the disabled to give both patients and their physicians a greater voice in treatment.

Doctors warn against tan injections

Heather Geller — Tue, 9 Apr 2013 19:35:00 EDT

Amarillo, Texas - It's a product being advertised as a quick and safer alternative to tanning. It's that time of year again where many people are trying to get that sun-kissed look.

FDA approves return of drug for morning sickness

Tue, 9 Apr 2013 18:34:00 EDT

WASHINGTON - Talk about a comeback: A treatment pulled off the market 30 years ago has won Food and Drug Administration approval again as the only drug specifically designated to treat morning sickness.

Mercury exposure linked to raised diabetes risk

Tue, 9 Apr 2013 11:56:00 EDT

Young adults who have higher levels of mercury in their systems may face a 65 percent increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life, a new study warns.

Texas food producer ordered to halt operations

Mon, 8 Apr 2013 16:02:00 EDT

HOUSTON - Federal authorities have ordered a Houston-based producer of egg rolls and other foods to cease operations until it improves products possibly contaminated by "filth."

Common heart drug linked to cancer risk in study

Mon, 8 Apr 2013 14:58:00 EDT

A drug called amiodarone that's widely used to treat heartbeat irregularities might raise a patient's risk of cancer, Taiwanese researchers report.

Common asphalt sealant may raise cancer risks

Fri, 5 Apr 2013 12:16:00 EDT

Living near asphalt that's sealed with coal tar may raise the risk of getting cancer, a new study shows. The potential threat appears to be greatest for young children.

Potential school changes could mean less stress, tests

Leslie Aguilar — Thu, 4 Apr 2013 21:10:00 EDT

House Bill 5 is a measure that would drastically change the requirements for Texas students to graduate high school and Amarillo Independent School District is already planning for a change.

Rise in ADHD diagnoses cause of concern for some

Leslie Aguilar — Wed, 3 Apr 2013 19:50:00 EDT

The Centers for Disease Control now estimates 11 percent of school age children are diagnosed with ADHD.

Haven Health Clinics remains open despite federal funding cuts

Jeff Stebbins — Wed, 3 Apr 2013 09:31:00 EDT

Amarillo, TX - Federal family planning dollars will no longer be provided to the state Department of Health Services, but Haven Health Clinics will still be funded through another agency.

New drug approved for Type 2 diabetes

Tue, 2 Apr 2013 11:28:00 EDT

Invokana (canaglifozin) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat Type 2 diabetes, which affects about 24 million Americans.

Perry, Cruz, Cornyn join forces on Medicaid

Mon, 1 Apr 2013 15:29:00 EDT

AUSTIN, Texas - Texas' top Republicans guns, Gov. Rick Perry and U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz and John Cornyn, have teamed up to oppose expanding Medicaid services in the state.

More evidence shows hormone therapy may increase breast cancer risk

Mon, 1 Apr 2013 09:44:00 EDT

Women who take hormone therapy that includes estrogen and progestin are at increased risk of developing breast cancer and dying from it.

Blood test might spot pancreatic cancer early

Sat, 30 Mar 2013 08:57:00 EDT

A new blood test that detects deadly pancreatic cancer earlier than usual might slightly improve patients' odds for survival, a small Japanese study suggests.

Drug-resistant 'superbug' may spread among patients

Sat, 30 Mar 2013 08:57:00 EDT

Drug-resistant bacteria that cause lung infections in people with cystic fibrosis can be passed indirectly from person to person, a new study finds.

Gov't launches new graphic anti-smoking ads

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 11:05:00 EDT

A new round of ads featuring emotionally charged tales of smokers who have suffered the ravages of smoking are on the way, federal health officials announced Thursday.

Conference to battle against child abuse

Heather Geller — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 20:24:00 EDT

Amarillo, Texas - Child abuse cases in the panhandle have gone down, but still remain among the highest in the state, according to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

Half a million Texans unknowingly have diabetes

Leslie Aguilar — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 20:19:00 EDT

According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, half a million Texans are living with diabetes and don't even know it.

FDA approves new multiple sclerosis drug

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 14:57:00 EDT

A new drug called Tecfidera has been approved to treat adults with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said Wednesday.

Robotic surgery now available at NWTHS

Leslie Aguilar — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EDT

Northwest Texas Hospital introduced a new kind of surgeon today, the Davinci SI, HD robot.

Breath test might predict obesity risk

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 14:57:00 EDT

A simple breath test may be able to tell if you are overweight or will be in the future, a new study suggests.

Proposed reform to health care in Texas prisons

Jeff Stebbins — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 07:39:00 EDT

Amarillo, TX - Proposed legislation in the Texas Senate would open health care in state prisons up to more competition, and according to supporters, lower costs.

FDA proposes tighter regulation of public defibrillators

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 12:20:00 EDT

To improve the quality of lifesaving devices called automated external defibrillators, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration proposed Friday that the seven manufacturers of these devices be required to get agency approval.

Cigarette 'relighting' on rise in still-tight economy

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 11:52:00 EDT

Smokers are relighting used cigarette butts in an apparent response to tough economic times, according to a new study.

Antipsychotic drug use rising for kids on Medicaid

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 11:31:00 EDT

Use of antipsychotic drugs among Medicaid-insured children increased sharply from 1997 to 2006, according to a new study.

Medication Clean Out to hopefully reduce possible drug abuse

Emily Griffin — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 01:22:00 EDT

Around one thousand pounds of unused medications are expected to be dropped off during Saturday's "Medication Clean Out" at the Texas Tech School of Pharmacy in Amarillo.

Antibiotic linked to heart problems in COPD patients

Sat, 23 Mar 2013 09:57:00 EDT

A widely used antibiotic may increase the risk of heart problems in patients with lung conditions, according to a new study.

Northwest Texas Hospital and WTAMU Professorship

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 13:41:00 EDT

Amarillo, TX - Thursday one area hospital is helping a local nursing program.

Alzheimer's numbers expected to increase

Heather Geller — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 20:42:00 EDT

Amarillo, Texas - Patients with Alzheimer's disease are expected to more than double in the next few decades. Today more than five million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease.

One in 50 school-aged children in US has autism

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 15:01:00 EDT

The number of children in the United States with autism spectrum disorder has jumped dramatically since 2007, federal health officials reported Wednesday.

High-dose statins linked to acute kidney damage

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 15:01:00 EDT

People who take high doses of popular cholesterol-lowering drugs called statins may be more likely to develop kidney problems, a new study suggests.

Push for CPR training in TX schools

Jessica Abuchaibe — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 20:13:00 EDT

Soon area students could be required to take CPR training before they graduate.

False-positive mammograms can trigger long-term distress

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 15:01:00 EDT

Women who have a false-positive mammogram result -- when breast cancer is first suspected but then dispelled with further testing -- can have lingering anxiety and distress up to three years after the misdiagnosis.

A third of US seniors die with dementia

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EDT

There's more troubling news for America's aging population: A new report finds that one in every three seniors now dies while suffering from Alzheimer's or another form of dementia.

Parents' worries about HPV vaccine on the rise

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EDT

Although experts recommend girls and young women be vaccinated against the virus that causes most cases of cervical cancer, parents seem to be increasingly worried about the vaccine's safety, a new U.S. study shows.

FDA: Know what's in your child's medications

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 11:50:00 EDT

It's the time of year when cold season and allergy season overlap, and parents need to know the active ingredients in the medicines they give their children for these conditions.

Truck driver in critical condition, family asks for donations

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 19:26:00 EDT

Amarillo, TX - The truck driver involved in Sunday night's wreck that claimed the lives of five teens is still in critical condition at a Lubbock burn unit.

Effectiveness of a law preventing elder abuse

Heather Geller — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 19:28:00 EDT

Amarillo, Texas - Nanny cams have been very popular over the years. A Texas law allows the same type of camera to be placed in rooms of senior citizens.

Study confirms slight rise in paralysis risk after swine flu shot

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EDT

People who were vaccinated against the 2009 H1N1 swine flu virus had a slightly increased risk of a paralysis disorder, according to a new study, but the benefits of vaccination greatly outweighed the risks.

Daily aspirin linked to lower risk for deadly skin cancer in women

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EDT

Older women who take an aspirin regularly may be lowering their risk of developing the deadly skin cancer melanoma, a new study suggests.

New drugs might give heart patients an edge

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EDT

In the search for better medicines to safely help heart patients, clinical trials testing three new drugs appear to offer some promise.

Tips on coping with daylight saving time

Fri, 8 Mar 2013 17:09:00 EST

The loss of an hour of sleep that comes with the switch to daylight saving time overnight Saturday can be uncomfortable if you don't take some simple steps to prepare, experts say.

Feds take lead on health insurance exchanges

Fri, 8 Mar 2013 14:23:00 EST

More than half the states in the nation have decided against creating on their own one of the most complex yet vital parts of the massive 2010 health reform law, which was championed by President Barack Obama.

More antibiotic-resistant bacteria in U.S. hospitals

Jeff Stebbins — Thu, 7 Mar 2013 23:28:00 EST

Amarillo, TX -- The Centers for Disease Control is raising concerns about the rise in antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Hereford mourns teen who died after being hit by discus

Leslie Aguilar — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 12:27:00 EDT

15-year-old Joshua Ramirez died 11 days after being hit in the hip by a discus at a track meet.

Schools to no longer send lice ridden children home

Leslie Aguilar — Wed, 6 Mar 2013 21:40:00 EST

The Texas Department of State Health Services says head lice can not make you sick, and therefore it should not interfere with school attendance.

Mini-organ would mimic pancreas to treat Type 1 diabetes

Wed, 6 Mar 2013 12:57:00 EST

A new bioengineered, miniature organ dubbed the BioHub might one day offer people with Type 1 diabetes freedom from their disease.

Your chances of dying by 2023? Test offers a clue

Tue, 5 Mar 2013 19:10:00 EST

Want to know your chances of dying in the next 10 years? Here are some bad signs: getting winded walking several blocks, smoking, and having trouble pushing a chair across the room.

Report details steps to boost patient safety

Tue, 5 Mar 2013 14:23:00 EST

Experts estimate that many tens of thousands of people in the United States die each year from medical errors, unproven treatments, bad diagnoses and preventable problems such as bedsores.

City of Amarillo conducting health assessment survey

Mon, 4 Mar 2013 19:19:00 EST

Amarillo, TX - You may get a phone call in the next couple of weeks asking about your personal health care needs.

Exercise leads to better sleep

Tue, 5 Mar 2013 10:17:00 EST

A brisk walk or workout can improve your sleep, even in the hours before bed, according to the results of a new U.S. poll conducted by the National Sleep Foundation.

Ob-gyn group lists procedures that may not be needed

Mon, 4 Mar 2013 12:54:00 EST

Five tests and procedures that obstetricians/gynecologists and their patients should question the need for are outlined in a list released by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Local reaction to proposed 21 smoking age in Texas

Jeff Stebbins — Sun, 3 Mar 2013 23:36:00 EST

Amarillo, TX - Recent legislation in the Texas Senate would raise the minimum age to buy tobacco to 21 in an attempt to curb teen smoking at the cost of lost sales tax revenue.

Red Cross trains volunteers ahead of tornado season

Emily Griffin — Sun, 3 Mar 2013 23:14:00 EST

As we start gearing up for tornado season in the Texas Panhandle, the American Red Cross wants to make sure its volunteers are prepared and ready to handle such a disaster.

List of Okla. bills targeting welfare programs

Sun, 3 Mar 2013 21:47:00 EST

OKLAHOMA CITY - Following is a list of some of the bills introduced during the 2013 legislative session that target federal assistance programs.

How to eat to lose weight

Sat, 2 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST

Although 93 percent of adults agree that a morning meal is an important part of a healthy diet, more than half of us don't practice what we preach.

Local women to hold bone marrow drive for Dallas boy

Heather Geller — Fri, 1 Mar 2013 19:59:00 EST

Borger, Texas - After seeing a young Dallas boy's story on Facebook, an area woman is doing all she can to help save his life.

Cigarette buying age in Texas may soon be raised

Ashley Paredez — Fri, 1 Mar 2013 16:06:00 EST

Texas - There's a push to reduce teen smoking across Texas. A proposed bill, that would raise the buying age to 21 instead of 18, is currently pending before a legislative committee.

Plastics chemical BPA tied to higher asthma risk in kids

Fri, 1 Mar 2013 14:22:00 EST

Children exposed to the chemical bisphenol A (BPA) may run a higher risk of developing asthma, a new study suggests.

Too much sitting could court diabetes

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 14:22:00 EST

Could sofas and chairs be bad for your health? New research suggests that as time spent sitting goes up, so does a person's odds for type 2 diabetes.

Investigation into area child care operations

Ashley Paredez — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 13:33:00 EST

Amarillo, TX - We discovered 19 child care operations in the Texas Panhandle have had their licensed revoked within the last two years.

Coffee Memorial Blood Center in need of donations

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 16:55:00 EST

Amarillo, TX - The recent blizzard has put Coffee Memorial Blood Center in desperate need for donations.

Mediterranean diet good for the heart

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 14:27:00 EST

Score another heart-health win for the Mediterranean diet.

Some kids abusing common baking ingredients

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 14:00:00 EST

Some common holiday baking ingredients -- such as cinnamon, nutmeg and marshmallows -- can be abused and lead to serious health problems and even death, an expert warns.

Pediatrics group issues new ear infection guidelines

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 16:50:00 EST

The American Academy of Pediatrics has issued new guidelines for identifying and treating a common childhood ailment that can cause a lot of misery -- the ear infection.

Local hospitals prepared to cover shifts with full staff

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 16:23:00 EST

Amarillo, TX - While many were able to stay at home today, area hospital employees had to be at work.

Budget cuts could reduce health care in the U.S.

Jeff Stebbins — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 23:34:00 EST

Amarillo, TX -- The American Medical Association says if Medicare funding is cut on March 1st, schools won't be able to produce enough graduates to meet the needs of a growing population.

Plastics chemical BPA common in 'preemie' ICU

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 14:26:00 EST

Premature babies who spend their first few days of life in the neonatal intensive care unit may be exposed to a possibly harmful chemical widely used in the manufacture of hard plastics, new research says.

Allergy season expected to arrive early

Emily Griffin — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 13:14:00 EST

Just when you think you're out of the woods for flu season, allergy season is there to greet you and if you think it seems a little early for that, you're right.

Sausage Recall

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 11:30:00 EST

The Smithfield Packing Company is pulling 38,000 pounds of pork sausage off shelves.

Emerging SARS-like virus well-suited to attack humans

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST

The new SARS-like "coronavirus" that first emerged in the Middle East can invade the lungs and immune system as easily as the common cold.

FDA warns against online flu medications

Heather Geller — Tue, 19 Feb 2013 12:40:00 EST

Amarillo, Texas - The hard hitting flu season has many people searching for a cheaper remedy. But, the Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers to stay away from purchasing flu medications online.

Effort to better protect psychiatric patients in Texas

Ashley Paredez — Tue, 19 Feb 2013 12:27:00 EST

Texas - The Disability Rights of Texas released a report indicating state officials have missed red flags that would have better protected several mental hospital patients across the state and instead,

Children's hospitals in Texas ask for more Medicaid funding

Ashley Paredez — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 17:11:00 EST

The number of children on Medicaid in Texas is increasing at an alarming rate.

More women using morning-after pill

Heather Geller — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 20:20:00 EST

Amarillo, Texas - In the last 10 years, the number of women using the morning-after pill has more than doubled. Eleven percent of sexually active women have taken the morning-after pill according to

Chemicals in cookware, carpets may raise arthritis risk in women

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 14:25:00 EST

In what researchers are calling a first, a new analysis suggests that the greater a woman's exposure to a type of common chemical compound called PFCs, the greater her risk for developing osteoarthritis.

Losin' It with Ali Allison

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 13:57:00 EST

Join Ali and Edwina Sweet on Thursday as they help men and women over 30 feel and look better.

FDA should work to cut sugar levels in sodas

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 11:15:00 EST

A leading consumer advocacy group, along with nutrition experts and health agencies from a number of U.S. cities, are calling for lowering the amount of sugars added to soft drinks.

Calcium supplements may raise odds of heart death in women

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 14:25:00 EST

Women eating a high-calcium diet and taking calcium supplements adding up to more than 1,400 milligrams a day may be running nearly twice the risk of dying from heart disease, a large Swedish study suggests.

First-born may be at greater risk for diabetes, hypertension

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST

First-born children may be at greater risk for diabetes or high blood pressure, a new, small study contends.

Coffee Memorial accepting younger blood donors

Jessica Abuchaibe — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 12:41:00 EST

Our area's blood bank is losing their largest group of donors, but they're doing a new initiative to continue helping those in need.

Go Red for Women

Tue, 12 Feb 2013 14:58:00 EST

Amarillo, TX - Women from all across West Texas are joining the fight against heart disease.

Teen births hit record low

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 14:25:00 EST

Teen birth rates have dropped yet again, reaching a historic low, and the number of babies being born early or with a low birth weight has also declined, a new U.S. government report shows.

Type 1 diabetes up 70 percent in kids

Fri, 8 Feb 2013 14:25:00 EST

Researchers have documented a startling rise in the rate of type 1 diabetes in one city: Diagnoses in kids younger than 5 jumped by 70 percent between 1985 and 2004 in Philadelphia.

TTUHSC School of Pharmacy students learn in new sterile lab

Thu, 7 Feb 2013 20:30:00 EST

Amarillo, Texas - Pharmacy students in Amarillo are now learning in a state of the art laboratory.

Sentencing delayed for former Amarillo orthodontist

Thu, 7 Feb 2013 18:08:00 EST

Amarillo, TX - Sentencing has been delayed for former Amarillo orthodontist, Dr. Michael Goodwin.

'Synthetic pot' sending thousands of young people to ER

Wed, 5 Dec 2012 12:26:00 EST

U.S emergency rooms tended to more than 11,400 cases of drug-related health complications specifically linked to the use of synthetic marijuana in 2010, a new government report reveals.

Moore County Hospital's high Medicare ranking

Wed, 6 Feb 2013 17:06:00 EST

Moore County, TX - Congratulations are in order for the Moore County Hospital District as they are dubbed world-class when it comes to quality care.

Patient involvement lowers health costs

Tue, 5 Feb 2013 14:25:00 EST

Patients who take an active role in their health care have lower medical costs, according to a new study.

Roosevelt General Hospital transportation upgrade

Veronica Dietrich — Mon, 4 Feb 2013 19:50:00 EST

A Portales hospital will now be able to get patients in critical or life-threatening conditions to their necessary destination faster.

Combating concussions among student athletes in Texas

Ashley Paredez — Mon, 4 Feb 2013 14:19:00 EST

Texas - Sports-related head injuries are gaining attention this morning after a discussion was brought up right before the Super Bowl. President Obama says if he had a son, he's not sure wether he would

Potential tuberculosis case at Dumas school

Leslie Aguilar — Mon, 4 Feb 2013 21:28:00 EST

The Texas Department of State Health Services will be at Dumas Intermediate School early Tuesday testing students and staff for tuberculosis.

The Doctors on The Early Show

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 14:22:00 EST

Every Friday morning on The Early Show join NewsChannel 10's Michelle Langowski as she sits down with area doctors to talk about health issues affecting the panhandle and ways to keep your family healthy.

United Supermarkets issues recall for possible food safety issue

Emily Griffin — Sat, 2 Feb 2013 20:39:00 EST

United Supermarkets has recalled 13 products containing steamed chicken due to a possible food safety issue.

One in three Texas foster children on psychotropic drugs

Jeff Stebbins — Fri, 1 Feb 2013 23:51:00 EST

Amarillo, TX -- About one in three foster kids in Texas are on psychotropic drugs, and now child welfare advocates are pushing for new legislation to address the issue.

Teaming up to educate women on heart disease

Heather Geller — Fri, 1 Feb 2013 20:52:00 EST

Amarillo, Texas - It's the number one killer of women not only in America, but also here in the panhandle.

Will climate change mean worse flu seasons?

Fri, 1 Feb 2013 14:25:00 EST

Mild winters where few people catch the flu tend to be followed by serious flu outbreaks the next year, a new study finds, suggesting that global warming could mean harsher flu seasons ahead.

Friday is 'National Wear Red Day' for women's heart health

Fri, 1 Feb 2013 14:25:00 EST

Americans are being urged to look through their closets for anything crimson, scarlet or apple-red to wear Friday, in support of the American Heart Association's annual Go Red for Women campaign.

NWTH to debut new heart imaging technology

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 20:04:00 EST

Amarillo, TX - Heart patients across the Panhandle now have access to state of the art heart equipment.

Coffee Memorial Blood Center in need of donors after wreck

Leslie Aguilar — Wed, 30 Jan 2013 18:31:00 EST

Coffee Memorial Blood Center is in desperate need of blood donors after a truck crashed Wednesday morning, canceling a blood drive.

CDC ranks foods most likely to make Americans sick

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 10:40:00 EST

Leafy green vegetables are responsible for more foodborne illnesses than any other food, according to a new government report.

Local hospital sees increase in infant respiratory virus

Leslie Aguilar — Tue, 29 Jan 2013 20:26:00 EST

More children are being hospitalized for respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV.

Medicaid coverage in Texas could soon change

Jeff Stebbins — Tue, 29 Jan 2013 13:33:00 EST

Amarillo, TX - The Affordable Care Act, set to take effect in August, would expand coverage to two million Texans, but some legislators balk at the federal oversight that comes with the federal funding.

Phone scam targeting area seniors with Medicare

Heather Geller — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 23:50:00 EST

A new phone scam is hitting residents our area. If you're a senior citizen and receive Medicare, scammers are looking to obtain information to help steal your identity.

For early cancer, lumpectomy beats mastectomy for survival

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 10:28:00 EST

Breast-conserving surgery for early stage breast cancers may result in better survival than mastectomy, according to a new study.

Bill challenges federal contraception mandate

Jeff Stebbins — Sat, 26 Jan 2013 19:04:00 EST

Amarillo, TX - Texas House Bill 649 proposes tax breaks for religious businesses required by the Affordable Care Act to provide birth control coverage in their employee health plans.

Physical, sexual assault may raise soldiers' suicide risk

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 12:40:00 EST

U.S. military personnel who were the victims of sexual or physical assault as adults are at increased risk for suicidal thoughts or actions, according to a new study.

One in six cases of adult asthma may be linked to workplace

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 10:59:00 EST

The type of jobs people have may increase their risk for developing asthma as an adult, a new British study suggests.

How to tell if your child is too sick for school

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 09:51:00 EST

Children often get colds, but when they are not feeling well enough to participate in their normal daily activities or not alert enough to learn or play, they are too sick to go to school, an expert advises.

Health insurance options

Jessica Abuchaibe — Thu, 17 Jan 2013 22:27:00 EST

Many area businesses are looking into providing health insurance whether or not they're required to under the Affordable Health Care Act.

More Americans turning to the web before doctors

Heather Geller — Thu, 17 Jan 2013 22:17:00 EST

Amarillo, Texas - More Americans are now seeking health advice on the internet before seeing a doctor.

Amarillo toddler returns home after receiving life-saving heart transplant

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 21:20:00 EST

An Amarillo toddler who has won the hearts of the community is now home after receiving a life-saving heart transplant.

NM reports first flu deaths this season

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 17:10:00 EST

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - New Mexico health officials have confirmed the first five flu deaths of this season.

ER visits linked to energy drinks double

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 10:28:00 EST

As the popularity of energy drinks has soared, so has the number of Americans seeking treatment in hospital emergency rooms after consuming these highly caffeinated beverages, federal health officials report.

Just how severe is this flu season?

Wed, 16 Jan 2013 14:24:00 EST

If the headlines are any indication, this year's flu season is turning out to be a whopper.

For some children, autism symptoms may fade with age

Wed, 16 Jan 2013 14:24:00 EST

Some children who are diagnosed with autism at an early age will ultimately shed all signs and symptoms of the disorder as they enter adolescence or young adulthood, a new analysis contends.

One year-old going through rehab

Jessica Abuchaibe — Wed, 16 Jan 2013 13:18:00 EST

A Texas center with patients from Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico is raising funds this week to continue helping families.

FDA warns doctors of fake Botox

Ashley Paredez — Wed, 16 Jan 2013 11:54:00 EST

There's a warning about Botox that affects hundreds of medical practices across the country.

'Spot' shortages of flu vaccine, Tamiflu reported

Wed, 16 Jan 2013 11:37:00 EST

Sporadic shortages of both the flu vaccine and the flu treatment Tamiflu are being reported, as this year's intense flu season continues, according to a top U.S. health official.

Texas center helping hundreds rehabilitate

Jessica Abuchaibe — Mon, 14 Jan 2013 21:27:00 EST

A Texas center is making a difference in the lives of many. Hundreds of residents from Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico are going through rehab everyday at the West Texas Rehabilitation Center.

Methods doctors use to test for the flu

Heather Geller — Mon, 14 Jan 2013 21:10:00 EST

Amarillo, Texas - As the flu virus continues to hit hard across the country, local doctors are seeing many patients with symptoms.

Flu widespread in 47 states, vaccine 'moderately' effective

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 11:16:00 EST

Flu continues its march across the United States, with 47 states now reporting widespread influenza activity, up from 41 last week, federal health officials reported Friday.

FDA releases new guidelines for popular sleeping aid pill

Emily Griffin — Fri, 11 Jan 2013 23:55:00 EST

After complaints of morning drowsiness and even several car accidents, the Food and Drug Administration is placing new guidelines on a popular sleeping aid - Ambien and its successors.

Teen birth rates decline in most US states

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:27:00 EDT

By The Associated Press The U.S. teen birth rate fell 25 percent over five years to a record low of 31 births per 1,000 teens ages 15 to 19, according to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and...

Nearly all US states see hefty drop in teen births

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:27:00 EDT

The nation's record-low teen birth rate stems from robust declines in nearly every state, but most dramatically in several Mountain States and among Hispanics, according to a new government report.

Doctors save Ohio boy by 'printing' an airway tube

Wed, 22 May 2013 18:16:00 EDT

By MARILYNN MARCHIONE AP Chief Medical Writer In a medical first, doctors used plastic particles and a 3-D laser printer to create an airway splint to save the life of a baby boy who used to stop breathing...

Polish man gets quick face transplant after injury

Wed, 22 May 2013 16:27:00 EDT

A 33-year-old Polish man received a face transplant just three weeks after being disfigured in a workplace accident, in what his doctors said Wednesday is the fastest time frame to date for such an operation. It was...

More doctors, hospitals using electronic records

Wed, 22 May 2013 10:56:00 EDT

The Obama administration says more doctors and hospitals are embracing technology as adoption of computerized medical records reaches a "tipping point" in America.

Portland, Ore., rejecting water fluoridation

Wed, 22 May 2013 03:06:00 EDT

The mayor of Portland, Ore., has conceded defeat in an effort to add fluoride to the city's drinking water.

Cancer Society hits 100 as US cancer rate falls

Wed, 22 May 2013 02:46:00 EDT

The American Cancer Society - one of the nation's best known and influential health advocacy groups - is 100 years old this week.

Tunisia announces 3 cases of coronavirus, 1 death

Tue, 21 May 2013 09:55:00 EDT

A 66-year-old Tunisian man has died from the new coronavirus following a visit to Saudi Arabia and two of his adult children were infected with it, the Tunisian Health Ministry reported.

Report: NPS hantavirus response followed policy

Tue, 21 May 2013 00:15:00 EDT

Federal investigators probing the hantavirus outbreak blamed for three deaths at Yosemite National Park recommended on Monday that design changes to tent cabins and other privately run lodging first be reviewed by National...

Sports seem OK for many with heart-zapping device

Mon, 20 May 2013 17:54:00 EDT

New research is challenging medical guidelines that say people with a heart-zapping device in their chests should avoid intense sports like basketball and soccer in favor of golf or bowling.

More kids getting donor organs, but gaps persist

Wed, 22 May 2013 15:01:00 EDT

Over the last decade, the number of American children who die each year awaiting an organ donation dropped by more than half, new research reveals. And increasing numbers of children are receiving donor organs.

Americans still making unhealthy choices

Wed, 22 May 2013 10:42:00 EDT

The overall health of Americans isn't improving much, with about six in 10 people either overweight or obese and large numbers engaging in unhealthy behaviors like smoking, heavy drinking or not exercising.

Weather worries can threaten a child's mental health

Wed, 22 May 2013 10:35:00 EDT

The monstrous tornado that devastated Moore, Okla., on Monday, killing dozens of adults and children, is a stunning example of violent weather that can affect a child's mental well-being.

Student suicide may spur similar thoughts in teens

Wed, 22 May 2013 10:29:00 EDT

When a classmate commits suicide, teens are more likely to consider or attempt suicide themselves, according to a new study.

Sleepless nights may hurt school performance of kids with asthma

Wed, 22 May 2013 10:25:00 EDT

Urban elementary school children with poorly controlled asthma are likely to experience sleep problems and suffer academically, new research indicates.

Genes may boost woman's risk of postpartum depression

Tue, 21 May 2013 15:01:00 EDT

Pregnant women with specific alterations in two genes may be at increased risk of suffering depression after giving birth, a small new study suggests.

Racial disparities seen in U.S. lung cancer treatment

Tue, 21 May 2013 15:01:00 EDT

Racial disparities exist in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer among hospitals in the United States, according to a large new study.

Favorite music may ease anxiety for patients

Tue, 21 May 2013 12:32:00 EDT

Music can help soothe the fear and anxiety of critically ill patients who have been placed on ventilators, reducing both their stress and their need for sedatives, according to a new study.

Revised sunscreen labels should help consumers make wiser choices

Tue, 21 May 2013 12:20:00 EDT

Dermatologists are saying that new federally mandated labeling laws for sunscreens should help Americans make smarter choices when it comes to products that provide the best sun protection.

Living near major roadways in pregnancy tied to respiratory woes in children

Tue, 21 May 2013 12:09:00 EDT

A child whose mother lived near heavy traffic while pregnant faces a relatively higher risk for developing a respiratory infection before the age of 3, a new study suggests.

Many seniors suffer mental decline in silence

Fri, 10 May 2013 10:41:00 EDT

About 13 percent of Americans 60 and older say they have increasing problems with thinking and memory and that they suffer growing confusion, a new report released Thursday shows.

Swimming pools may pose hazard for people with heart devices

Fri, 10 May 2013 10:35:00 EDT

With summer approaching, researchers caution that swimming pools may pose a risk to patients with irregular heartbeats who've received implantable defibrillators.

Omega-3s no help against age-linked eye trouble

Tue, 7 May 2013 11:48:00 EDT

Adding omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients to standard antioxidant vitamins doesn't give older people any added protection against a leading cause of blindness, a new study finds.

Odds of dying in traffic accident increase with age

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 17:14:00 EDT

Elderly pedestrians face a much higher risk of being killed in a traffic accident than the young do, a new government report finds.

Seriously stressed? Hair analysis tells all

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 10:22:00 EDT

Hair analysis can reveal if seniors have elevated stress hormone levels that may put them at increased risk for heart disease and stroke, a new study suggests.

Complications from kidney stone surgery rising

Mon, 1 Apr 2013 10:36:00 EDT

As more patients undergo a minimally invasive procedure to remove kidney stones, the rate of complications from the surgery is also rising, according to a new study.

Researchers test implanted brain stimulator for Alzheimer's

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 11:18:00 EDT

Researchers are testing whether applying electrical stimulation directly to the brains of people with Alzheimer's disease might improve thinking, focus and alertness.

Too few Americans pass last days in hospice care

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 14:57:00 EDT

Many people are still dying in hospitals, despite the fact that there has been a decrease in the number of patients who spend their final days in a setting that most would rather avoid, a new government report shows.

New method may help pinpoint woman's final menstrual period

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 14:57:00 EDT

A new formula to predict a woman's final menstrual period could help menopausal women fight bone loss and reduce their heart disease risk, a new study reports.