Latest update: 15/11/2010 

- children - health


21st century children's health

This week HEALTH explores several chronic conditions affecting the younger generation. We look at how 21st century kids are coping with juvenile diabetes, ADHD and a rare aversion to ultra-violet light. In particular, we show you the very latest technology and medicinal advances which are helping young patients to live as normal a life as possible.

By Catherine NORRIS TRENT

 

The World Health Organisation has warned of an "emerging global epidemic" of diabetes, and experts are particularly worried about the young, with growing numbers of children being born with the chronic disease. But despite decades of international research no one is exactly sure why. In the meantime, we test out the latest child-friendly gadgets which are making life a bit simpler for young diabetics.

ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder has sparked headlines and courted controversy, with some saying that the restless, destructive behaviour in kids is born out of faulty parenting. And in certain countries, such as the United States, it’s become increasingly diagnosed. Now the very latest research suggests that ADHD could be in the genes.

And how would you feel if your child could never go out and play in the sunshine? HEALTH shines a light on a very rare condition: Xeroderma Pigmentosum. It sufferers have an extreme sensitivity to ultra violet, their skin simply can’t repair the damage caused by the sun’s rays. As a result, patients, who bear the melancholy nickname 'children of the moon', are at a high risk of developing skin cancer. We follow one boy’s story, whose school has made modifications so that he can attend lessons alongside other children.

 

Globesity: Weighing up the options
13/05/2012 - HEALTH

Globesity: Weighing up the options

The French might be renowned for their slim figures, but in reality, France is catching up with the United States. One in two adults is overweight and the situation in France now resembles that of the US twenty years ago. We weigh up efforts to beat globesity – a new term that describes the growing global health problem.
A combat worth fighting for
29/04/2012 - HEALTH

A combat worth fighting for

With less than 100 days until the Olympics kick off in London, we take a look at the health consequences of some of the combat sports that will be featuring in the Games.
Alcoholism: the curse of the craving
15/04/2012 - HEALTH

Alcoholism: the curse of the craving

When does a "harmless" drink before dinner become a "harmful" addiction? This week we take a closer look at the curse of alcoholism and efforts to curb its impact.
Allergy Alert
01/04/2012 - HEALTH

Allergy Alert

Allergies come in all shapes and sizes. Some of us sneeze constantly in the presence of cats, others can’t stomach peanuts. This week we check out a new hayfever treatment, allergy-free peanuts and illegal, allergy-inducing henna.
In Deep Water
18/03/2012 - HEALTH

In Deep Water

This week we're at the 6th World Water Forum in Marseille to find out how leaders, decision-makers and volunteers are searching for solutions to ensure safe drinking water for everyone, the world over.

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