Health & Safety Headlines

Updated Prostate Cancer Recommendations

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force now recommends that men age 55-69 should make an individual decision about being screened for prostate cancer with a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test. The Task Force no longer recommends men age 70 or older be screened for prostate cancer. For more information, order the Fund’s Facts About Prostate Cancer for Laborers pamphlet by going to www.lhsfna.org and clicking on Publications.

Deaths Associated with Popular Gout Medication

The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning that Uloric, a popular gout medication, brings an increased risk of death to patients. Uloric was approved by the FDA in 2009. The agency recommends that patients with gout talk to their health care provider about alternative medications and whether Uloric is the best option for treating their condition.

Healthy Adults Should Skip That Low-Dose Aspirin

The American Heart Association no longer recommends daily low-dose aspirin for older, healthy adults trying to reduce their risk for heart attack and stroke. Doctors may still consider low-dose aspirin for older, high-risk patients who are having trouble controlling their cholesterol or blood sugar. If you’re in doubt about which medications you should be taking, talk to your doctor.

Flooding Puts Drinking Water in Wells at Risk

Record flooding in the Midwest has put over one million wells in 10 states at risk for bacterial and industrial contamination. Other areas of the country are also at risk after severe flooding events. If you notice changes in the color, odor or flavor of your water, get your well tested.

[Nick Fox]