What’s the buzz
Braking hard could cause lung damage Slamming on car brakes could cause lung damage to motorists, says a new study. The study, which involved lab tests, found that particles released by brake pads harm lung cells through a chemical process known as oxidative stress.
Reporting in the journal Particle and Fibre Toxicology, University of Bern researchers said that heavy braking was most harmful. But normal braking and even being close to a disengaged brake resulted in a potentially dangerous effect on body cells.
To reach the conclusion,the effects of brake wear particles on cultured lung cells placed in a chamber close to a car axle was studied. They concluded: “Just as for exhaust particles, efforts to diminish brake particle emissions will lead to an improved ambient air quality and so could provide better protection of human health.”
Vicks nasal sprays recalled over bacteria fears
Vicks nasal sprays have been recalled from markets in the United States, Germany and the United Kingdom, after it was learnt that they contained a dangerous bacteria.
A routine testing procedure in Germany found the spray could contain the bacteria B cepacia, which can cause serious infections in people with a weak immune system or with lung conditions. “Procter & Gamble announced it is voluntarily recalling three lots of its Vicks Sinex nasal spray in the three countries,” said a statement on Vicks’ website.
There have been no reports of illness. However, the bacteria could cause serious infections among those with a compromised immune system, or with chronic lung conditions, such as cystic fibrosis. A total number of 1,20,000 sprays are reportedly being recalled in the three countries.
Movie popcorn + soda = calorie bomb
If you think having a medium popcorn and soft drink while watching a movie won’t add much to your weight, then it’s time to get a reality check.
A study by the Center for Science and Public Interest (CSPI) found that consuming popcorn and drink means taking in three days worth of an adult’s recommended allowance of fat.
The researchers said that a medium popcorn and drink had 1,160 calories. “It’s hard enough for Americans to maintain a healthy weight even when limiting their eating. Who realises that they might be taking in a meal’s worth of calories during a movie? The healthiest snack to buy at the movies is no snack at all,” says Jayne Hurley, a CSPI nutritionist.
Brit pregnant women not sure of swine flu vaccine
A survey of 107 general practioners in the UK has found that the public is avoiding the swine flu vaccine, with only 46 per cent patients, including pregnant women and those with chronic ailments like asthma, accepting it.
Pregnant women are particularly averse to the administration of the vaccine. Some say they are worried about its side effects, while others avoid the jab by saying the virus is mild in most affected people.
Even after the Government handed out leaflets and made online information available to persuade pregnant women to take the vaccine, doctors say the public’s response has been lukewarm. “In all the pregnant women we’ve offered it to, I think only about one in 20 has agreed,” said Dr Chris Udenze, a GP in Nottingham.
