YAZ, Yasmin, Beyaz, and other drospirenone hormonal birth control pills have been found to have an increased risk of serious blood clots. However, the FDA has not taken the pills off the market or demanded a black box warning.
Read More »Products with Health Risks
NCHR Testimony at the FDA about New Spine Device, Barricaid Anular Closure
December 12, 2017, Patients who suffer with back pain need better alternatives for long term relief. The Barricaid device might be the answer, but the limited data provided suggests it is unlikely to offer the kinds of benefits that patients need. The study indicates substantial device failures. Its use in limited discectomy remains unknown, because most subjects had more extensive surgeries. In addition, the short-term benefits appear to be modest and wane after 24 months. Long term studies with blinding conducted inside the US may provide more certainty, but at this time the data are insufficient to recommend approval.
Read More »Too Much Caffeine in Your Drink?
Caffeine is naturally found in chocolate, coffee, and tea. In moderation, caffeine does not pose a health risk. In fact, a Johns Hopkins’ study found that one or two cups of coffee (about 200 mg of caffeine) is shown to increase focus and memory. However, caffeine can be harmful in large quantities.
Read More »Agent Orange and Serious Diseases including Multiple Myeloma
It has taken many years to determine how Agent Orange exposure during the Vietnam War has harmed the health of those who were exposed. One of the reasons is that it can take decades for cancer to develop after a dangerous exposure.
Read More »Should You Consider a Birth Control Patch?
When choosing a method of birth control, most women want what is the most effective and convenient. Women who want “hormonal” birth control can choose a pill, patch, injection, or vaginal ring, yet not all of these options have equal risks. In fact, the Patch, Ortho Evra, is now shown to put women at greater risks than birth control pills did by exposing women to high levels of estrogen. But, how does Ortho Evra work, and why is it more dangerous than other forms of birth control?
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