They found that a test known as Computer Dynamic Posturography was the most sensitive detector of a risk of falling, followed by a test called the Tinetti and Berg Assessment. Medical disorders including musculoskeletal problems, heart disease, high blood pressure, hearing loss, anxiety, and depression also were correlated with a higher risk of falling. Multiple falls were associated with an abnormal score on the Limits of Stability test. The authors concluded that these diagnostic tests can help doctors identify which elderly people are at greatest risk of falling, and particularly of falling more than once. Each year approximately 230,000 Americans are hospitalized with a head injury.
Vehicle crashes are the leading cause of brain injuries.
Some Jobs Carry Higher Brain Cancer Risk Doctors at Yale University have identified a number of professions that are associated with an increased risk of developing brain cancer. Principal investigator Dr. Tongzhang Zheng suggested that the risk may be related to exposure to pesticides, solvents, dyes, formaldehydes, and other carcinogens seen in these industries, although he cautioned that more research is needed. All rights reserved. Click here to read the latest Wellness stories.