A study of a very large number of Australian twins shows that nicotine dependence may be linked to the risk for alcohol dependence. The researchers speculate that some effect of nicotine may increase alcohol tolerance and thus lead to increased alcohol consumption and eventually alcoholism. This study reaffirms the scientific basis for the very positive experience we have had treating asthmatics in this country with leukotriene inhibitors. Leukotrienes are hormones that aggravate inflammatory responses, and are especially important in asthma - an inflammatory disease of the lung. The FDA has approved its use in children down to age 2.
Cochlear implants work best if implanted early, say UK researchers.
Because early intervention does appear to be a key factor in the success of this procedure, the researchers feel their findings support the implementation of universal neonatal screening programs for deafness. Whether they have specific reflux symptoms or not, gastroesophageal reflux may be common in asthmatics. A study in adults showed a significant number of patients with asthma have significant reflux. Gastroesophageal reflux, which may have minimal or no overt symptoms, has been shown to be potential trigger of asthma due to aspiration of small amounts of stomach contents into the lungs. Asthmatic children who show any signs of reflux should probably have attention turned to this condition.