More Evidence Allergies Cut Brain Cancer Risk
Allergies are a pain, but might they be good for the brain?
A new study suggests that having asthma, hay fever or another allergic condition may reduce your risk of developing the most common form of brain cancer.
Researchers previously have observed that people who develop glioblastoma multiforme, or GBM, are less likely to have allergies or asthma.
But an international team led by an Ohio State University researcher found further evidence for that link while studying DNA samples from 533 people (111 with and 422 without the fatal brain cancer).
The researchers found that people with one or two genetic variations associated with asthma and allergy had a significantly lower risk of GBM.
“Variations in certain genes may make a person more prone to develop asthma or allergies,” Judith Schwartzbaum, the report’s lead author, said in an Ohio State press release. “And those same variations may protect adults against the most common kind of brain cancer.”
The research was published in Friday’s edition of the journal Cancer Research.
MyPyramid in your palm
Can’t remember how many whole grains you’re supposed to eat today?
Not sure what a “serving” of vegetables is, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture?
Look no further than the palm of your hand.
You can download free the USDA’s updated food pyramid — the personalized food guidance system called MyPyramid — to your cell phone or handheld device.
A company called Skyscape Inc. provides free downloads at www.SkyscapeOnHand.com/mypyramid.
Tip of the week
The gym’s supposed to be a place to work off stress. But fellow members’ sloppy habits or newcomers’ inexperience can cause frustration. Get a handle on proper gym etiquette with these tips from the American Council on Exercise:
Don’t be a machine hog when others are waiting.
Be quiet — don’t blare music, grunt excessively or talk loudly on your phone.
Wipe your sweat off of any equipment you use.
Restack your weights when you’re done with them.
Stay in the back when trying a new group fitness class.
Compiled by staff writer Nichole Aksamit