COPD Patients May Do Fine With Shorter Course of Steroids

TUESDAY, May 21 (HealthDay News) -- Less is more when it comes to steroid therapy for patients having severe bouts of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), according to Swiss investigators.

Americans Still Making Unhealthy Choices: CDC

TUESDAY, May 21 (HealthDay News) -- The overall health of Americans isn't improving much, with about six in 10 people either overweight or obese and large numbers engaging in unhealthy behaviors like smoking, heavy drinking or not exercising, a new government report shows.

Health Tip: Run Smart, Run Safe

(HealthDay News) -- The next time you go for a run or jog, staying safe should be your first concern.

Sports May Be OK With Defibrillator, Study Says

MONDAY, May 20 (HealthDay News) -- Although people with implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) are often advised to avoid activities more strenuous than golf or bowling, new research suggests that many people with these heart devices can participate in more vigorous sports.

Extra Vitamin D May Ease Crohn's Symptoms, Study Finds

SATURDAY, May 18 (HealthDay News) -- Vitamin D supplements may help those with Crohn's disease overcome the fatigue and decreased muscle strength associated with the inflammatory bowel disease, according to new research.

Infections From Tainted Spine Injections Continue to Baffle Investigators

THURSDAY, May 16 (HealthDay News) -- The tainted steroid injections linked to 55 recent U.S. deaths also caused many less lethal infections, more than half of them concentrated in Michigan, federal health officials reported Thursday.

Many Public Pools Contaminated With Human Waste: CDC

THURSDAY, May 16 (HealthDay News) -- There are few things more inviting than a cool, clear pool on a hot summer day. But a new federal report will have you thinking twice before dipping a toe in the water.

Fitness in Middle Age May Help Shield Men From Cancer Later

THURSDAY, May 16 (HealthDay News) -- Men who are physically fit in middle age have a lower risk of developing and dying from certain cancers, new research indicates.

Get Fit in Middle Age to Cut Heart Failure Risk, Study Says

WEDNESDAY, May 15 (HealthDay News) -- People who are obese or out of shape in their 40s or 50s might think it's too late to start getting fit, but new research finds that shaping up in middle age lowers the odds for heart failure later in life.

Yoga May Help Ease High Blood Pressure, Study Finds

WEDNESDAY, May 15 (HealthDay News) -- People who follow the ancient practice of yoga may be getting an added health boost, with a new study suggesting it can fight high blood pressure -- also known as hypertension.