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 »Preventing Disease & Staying Healthy
We all know that it’s good to exercise, eat fresh fruits and vegetables, and get a good night’s sleep. But it’s hard to change our habits, especially if we don’t have persuasive proof that it will improve our lives and health.
The National Center for Health Research is constantly reviewing new research to determine what we can do that will prevent diseases and keep us healthy.
Excellent research is being conducted to learn exactly what kinds of foods and exercise will help you prevent specific diseases, and what exposures to avoid in your daily life. The results are sometimes confusing because new products to prevent diseases are aggressively advertised, whether they work or not. Sometimes the best strategies are ones that don’t cost anything – but who is going to pay to advertise those?
We cut through the hype. We scrutinize new research, and call the researchers to learn even more. Then we translate it into plain language that you can understand.
To find the information you need, please use our search box to search for exactly what you are looking for or browse through our various topics on the right. →
If you’re looking for information about how to prevent cancer, go to our Cancer Prevention and Treatment web site at www.stopcancerfund.org . If you don’t see what you’re looking for on any health topic, contact us through our online health helpline at info@center4research.org. We’ll try to get the information you need within a few days.
Does Gun Control Really Work?
More research is needed to conclude which policies are most important at preventing firearm-related deaths, but the results suggest that stricter gun-control laws may help.
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 »Health Insurance: 2021 Special Open Enrollment Period– Now What?
President Biden has reopened the ACA insurance marketplace to help Americans get health insurance during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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.
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