SCREENING FOR LUNG CANCER? A new study looking at the use of low-dose chest CT scanning concluded that it may be useful in screening for lung cancer in smokers. Although far from conclusive, the study will spark new research addressing the issue. Currently, there is no recommended method of screening for lung cancer. Henschke CI et al. Lancet 1999;354-99.

FRUITS AND VEGETABLES DECREASE STROKE RISK. This study of 75,596 women over a period of 14 years found that those who at the most fruits and vegetables had a 30% decreased risk of ischemic stroke. Joshipura KJ et al. JAMA 1999;282:1233.

MORE THAN HALF OF CHINESE MEN SMOKE. In this survey of 120,298 people living in China, 63% of the men smoked cigarettes on a daily basis. Only 36% of the respondents recognized that smoking can cause lung cancer. Yang G et al. JAMA 1999;282:1247.

10% OF MEDICARE COSTS DUE TO SMOKING. Diseases resulting from smoking cost the US Medicare Health system an estimated $20.5 billion in 1997. This equals nearly 10% of all money spent in 1997 on Medicare. These figures were calculated by researchers at the University of California at San Francisco. Zhang X, Max W. Health Care Financing Review 1999;20:1.

DHEA MAY HELP MOOD & SEXUAL SATISFACTION. In this study of women with underactive adrenal glands, taking 50 mg of DHEA a day resulted in improved moods, and greater interest and satisfaction with sex. The DHEA was added to standard therapy. Its benefit in men is unknown. Monitoring patients on DHEA should include screening for breast and prostate cancer. Artle W et al. NEJM 1999;341:1013.

QUICK FACTS- UNINTENDED PREGNANCY.

* Over 2.7 million unintended pregnancies occur yearly in the United States

* From 40% to 50% of all unintended pregnancies end in abortion

* Use of the "morning after" pill (day after contraception) could prevent an estimated 800,000 abortions a year.

Source: American Medical Women's Association Fact Sheet