Italians take heart from smoking ban
A smoking ban introduced in Italy four years ago is behind an 11 per cent fall in heart attacks among people aged 35 to 64, say researchers who highlight the reduction in passive smoking rather than people quitting. The ban, enforced in all indoor public spaces, 'is working and having a real protective effect', says team leader Francesco Forastiere of the Rome Health Authority. Although cigarette sales also fell 5.5 per cent after the ban, the researchers attribute the health benefits mainly to reduced second-hand smoke, Reuters reports.
Beetroot benefits blood pressure
Drinking 500ml of beetroot juice a day appears to quickly lower blood pressure, with the effects lasting for up to 24 hours, according to British researchers who have discovered how the vegetable's high levels of nitrate boost blood-vessel functions. The small study, WebMD reports, 'suggests that drinking beetroot juice ... might be a simple way to maintain a healthy cardiovascular system', says Amrita Ahluwalia of the London School of Medicine.
Liquid bandage for combat troops
The US Food and Drug Administration has approved a liquid bandage developed for combat troops. Although other liquid dressings are available, this one was designed by Rutgers University's Centre for Military Biomaterials Research for wounded soldiers to use on themselves, WebMD reports. The gel-based bandage is formed from two polymers and is applied using a double-barrelled syringe.