Health

The Answer to Smokers' Prayers?

by Anne Landman — July 21, 2008 - 3:21pm

Smoking was officially banned July 1 in Dutch bars and cafes. Since then, smokers have started flocking to a new religious movement in the Netherlands known as the "The Only and Universal Smokers Church of God," or the "Smokers Church." Michiel Eijsbouts, who founded the church in 2001, insists that the new smoking law does not apply to members of the Smokers Church.

Main Source: 
The Telegraph (UK), July 17, 2008

French Nuclear Plant Slow to Admit Leak

by Judith Siers-Poisson — July 14, 2008 - 11:57am

Nuclear advocates often point to France as a success story, with 80% of the country's electricity coming from nuclear power. But a recent leak at the Tricastin plant in Bollene, near Avignon, has raised concerns about health, safety, and transparency. The site houses both a nuclear reactor and a radioactive treatment plant.

Main Source: 
BBC News, July 11, 2008

Drug Companies Move to Regulate Themselves, Before Anyone Else Does

by Judith Siers-Poisson — July 10, 2008 - 2:43pm

The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) has announced a ban on giving branded items to doctors. The pens, notepads, mugs and other gifts are ubiquitous in medical offices. Some, like Senator Herb Kohl, think it is a step in the right direction. "We've been pushing to see reforms like this for some time now.

Main Source: 
New York Times, July 10, 2008

Eli Lilly Fined for Breaching Australian Ban on Direct-to-Consumer Ads

by Bob Burton — July 9, 2008 - 4:59am

Eli Lilly has been fined A$60,000 for issuing a media release promoting a version of its erectile dysfunction drug Cialis despite an Australian ban on direct-to-consumer advertising. In April Eli Lilly released Cialis Once-a-Day. To coincide with its launch, the company issued a media release headlined "New research reveals scheduled sex a turn-off," which promoting the results of a Lilly-commissioned opinion poll.

Main Source: 
The Australian, July 5, 2008

American Association of Public Health Physicians: "Tobacco Bill Is a Scam"

by Anne Landman — July 1, 2008 - 12:28pm

The American Association of Public Health Physicians (AAPHP) has published an updated analysis of H.R. 1108, the massive bill currently under consideration by Congress that would give the U.S. Food and Drug Administration authority to regulate tobacco products. AAPHP concludes, "This bill is a scam.

Main Source: 
American Association of Public Health Physicians, June 19, 2008
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