Health - Portland Press Herald

Divided House passes bill to end most exemptions to school vaccine requirements

by Scott Thistle April 23, 2019April 27, 2019

The exemptions have allowed parents to avoid vaccinating their children against infectious diseases before they enroll in school, leaving Maine with one of the nation’s lowest vaccination rates.

Health, Sports

Patients punch back at Parkinson’s disease through boxing lessons

by Steve Craig April 21, 2019April 21, 2019

Rock Steady Boxing, a program introduced in Maine just over two years ago, helps participants battle the degenerative disease, both physically and psychologically.

Health, Nation & World

Two-wave U.S. flu season is now the longest in a decade

by MIKE STOBBE Associated Press April 19, 2019April 19, 2019

In mid-February, a nastier strain started causing more illnesses and driving up hospitalizations.

Health, News, Politics

Testimony is divided as Maine lawmakers consider paid family and medical leave for most workers

by Scott Thistle April 19, 2019April 20, 2019

House Speaker Sara Gideon’s bill would establish a payroll tax to support state-run insurance to cover the costs.

Health, Maine, News

Drug overdose deaths declined in 2018 but remain at historic levels

by Megan Gray April 18, 2019April 19, 2019

Maine had 354 drug deaths last year, a 15 percent decrease from the record set in 2017.

Health, Nation & World, News, Uncategorized

Study: Genetic test predicts middle-aged obesity risk

by MALCOLM RITTER Associated Press April 18, 2019April 18, 2019

Even if you inherit a propensity for obesity, scientists say, you still have control over whether you are overweight.

Health, Nation & World

Scientists spur some activity in brains of dead pigs

by MALCOLM RITTER Associated Press April 17, 2019April 17, 2019

Scientists restored some activity within the brains of pigs that had been slaughtered hours before.

Health, Maine, News, Politics

Hearing draws advocates of lower prescription prices, patient safety

by Joe Lawlor April 17, 2019April 17, 2019

Proposals to form a state board for prescription drug pricing, allow importation of medications from Canada and otherwise curb rising costs are the focus of testimony.