General health News

SA clamours for cosmetic surgery

Their sagging financial fortunes have not curbed South Africans' enthusiasm for cosmetic surgery - and the emergence of medical loans is giving the industry a lift.

Autopsy set for Brittany Murphy

Los Angeles coroners were to carry out an autopsy on the body of Brittany Murphy on Monday following the 32-year-old actress's sudden death at the weekend.

Health tips from the cockpit

Study findings hint that hospitals may improve patient safety by drawing on aviation-type safety initiatives.

Kids' hardship = sick adults

Children who experience mental, economic or social hardship can develop long-term emotional, immune and metabolic problems that increase their risk of diseases in adulthood.

What kills South Africans

There was a slight decline in the number of deaths in South Africa between 2006 and 2007 with tuberculosis the leading cause of death, Statistics SA found in a survey.

Teetotalling in the genes

A new study found that in adolescence, the relationship between church attendance and lower rates of drinking and smoking appeared largely a matter of "shared" environment.

Sex, booze, fat, biggest killers

Tackling just five health factors could prevent millions of premature deaths and increase global life expectancy by almost 5 years, the World Health Organisation (WHO) said.

Hospital workers spread germs

Hospital workers who see many patients may play a disproportionate role in spreading dangerous hospital-acquired infections, a new study finds.

Can magic porridge save the world?

Another super-supplemented maize meal has been introduced to the SA market. The hope is that it could fill a nutrient gap among the less privileged. But will it? DietDoc doubts it.

Educated wife for a longer life

Bachelors take note: If you want to enjoy a long life, marry a highly educated woman.