Bioethics & Health News
January 18

January 18, 2006

Face Transplant Doctor Reveals Tissue Rejection

French surgeons are declaring the world’s first face transplant a success even as they revealed that the patient battled a serious tissue-rejection episode less than a month after her groundbreaking operation.
(AP)

Gene Protects Against HIV, But Ups Risk for West Nile Virus

A genetic mutation that helps protect a small minority of people against HIV infection may increase their risk of contracting West Nile disease, new research suggests.
(HealthDay)

Court Ruling a Relief for Some Patients

Charlene Andrews, who has terminal breast cancer, has not yet asked a doctor for the fatal dose of barbiturates that would enable her to take her own life.
(AP)

Sex Difference in Aspirin Effect

Taking aspirin can cut the risk of cardiovascular disease in both sexes – but seems to work differently for men and women, research suggests.
(BBC)

Dogs Smell Signs of Cancer

Dogs have long been used to sniff out explosives, narcotics, and even counterfeit currency. Now, a new study shows that man’s best friend can also detect lung and breast cancer in breath samples.
(HealthDay)

Study: Aspirin’s Heart Benefits May Vary By Sex

he benefits of taking aspirin regularly differs between men and women, reducing the risk of heart attacks in men while reducing the risk of strokes in women, researchers said on Tuesday.
(Reuters)