Laundry detergent pods risky for children

Study finds laundry detergent pods, serious poisoning risk for children — One young child per day hospitalized in 2012 and 2013 because of pods; researchers recommend households with young children use traditional detergent instead – Laundry detergent pods began appearing on U.S. store shelves in early 2010, and people have used them in growing numbers ever since. The small packets can be tossed into a washing machine without ever having to measure out a liquid or powder. The convenience, though, has come with risks for young children.

Children with multiple surgeries before age 2 develop a learning disability

Mayo Clinic study: multiple surgeries and anesthesia exposure – 36.6 percent children who had multiple surgeries before age 2 developed a learning disability later in life, but it should not alter decision-making related to surgery in young children. The new study examines children experiencing anesthesia and surgeries under age 2.

New policy on choking prevention in young children

New AAP policy on choking prevention in young children – Choking is a leading cause of injury and death among children, especially children 3 years of age or younger. Food, toys and coins account for most of the choking-related events in young children, who put objects in their mouths as they explore new environments.

Obesity increased in USA, obesity policies are failing

A new report finds obesity epidemic increases in USA, Mississippi weighs in as heaviest state in America. – Adult obesity rates increased in 23 states of USA and did not decrease in a single state in the past year, according to F as in Fat: How Obesity Policies Are Failing in America 2009, a report released by the Trust for America’s Health (TFAH) and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF).

Hair straightener burns amongst under fives rising, UK

With the increasing popularity of hair straighteners, hospitals are treating increasing numbers of children with serious burns. – Most parents think of electrical sockets and irons when asked about dangers to young children in the home but, unknown to parents, new and unexpected risks from modern home gadgets such as hair straighteners are posing a growing threat to toddlers’ safety.

New software technology empowers disabled children

Pioneering Scottish technology empowers disabled children – it allows children with communication difficulties to take control of conversations. – Scottish scientists have developed the first technology of its kind in the world which allows children with communication difficulties to take control of conversations.

Transfer of health from mother to child

Study suggests transfer of poor health from mother to child in India. Maternal height associatied with child mortality, growth failure. – Researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) have found a link between a mother’s height and the health of her children in a study using national data from India.

3 point plan to save money on insurance

Three-point plan to save money on insurance without switching companies or skimping on coverage. Illinois Division of Insurance urges consumers to explore discounts. – Switching from brand names to generics is a great way to save money on food and clothes, but when it comes to insurance, consumers need to make well-informed decisions prior to altering coverage or changing companies.

Baby care products meet safety standards

Activist group allegations about baby care products false; Baby care products meet established safety standards. – Allegations made today that commonly used baby products are somehow contaminated with harmful levels of carcinogenic chemicals are patently false and a shameful and cynical attempt by an activist group to incite and prey upon parental worries and concerns in order to push a political, legislative and legal agenda.

Health Newstrack