Health

Have you ever been around someone who chews gum constantly? Do they seem happier? Healthier? Wrigley is betting millions of dollars on it. Stacey Vanek-Smith explains.

An FDA panel says drugs that control attention deficit hyperactivity disorder -- Ritalin, Adderall, Concerta -- could be dangerous to the heart. Some 4 million Americans take them. Helen Palmer reports.

The Bush Administration predicts birds with the avian flu disease will be found in the United States this year.Meanwhile, the virus has evolved into two different human strains. Curt Nickisch reports.

We've all heard the charges that Vioxx can trigger heart attacks. Now comes word that rival pain reliever Celebrex may also exacerbate heart problems. Helen Palmer reports.

Bird flu experts from around the world assemble in Washington today to discuss how businesses can prepare for a possible outbreak. Eric Niiler reports.

Cities across the US, including New York and Los Angeles, have banned smoking in restaurants and even bars. Chicago finally caved into that peer pressure last month... perfect timing for the city's new luxury smoking lounge. Diantha Parker reports.

The FDA, under fire for sluggishness in approving generic drugs, announced this week that it had OKed a generic version of the popular nasal spray Flonase. In response, the drug's maker, GlaxoSmithKline, took legal action to halt the move. Helen Palmer reports from the Health Desk at WGBH.

A report out today says that 25 million Americans use some kind of food assistance, up 8% from 2001. From the Work and Family Desk, Hillary Wicai reports.

A new report out today predicts that healthcare spending will account for 20% of the GPD by 2015. Helen Palmer reports.

The World Trade Organization is expected to rule today on a dispute between Europe and the US over genetically modified foods. Helen Palmer looks at what's at stake.