The Scope

Physical abuse in relationships tends to get worse over time. Victims receiving a constant barrage of intimidation begin to believe they are at fault. Social worker Wendy James suggests that a friend can help restore the self-esteem necessary to confront the abuser. She also discusses how women can love a person while setting limits, seeking shelter and filing charges.

A study published in the journal Nature suggests there are mutations in over 1,000 genes that could contribute to development of autism. Hilary Coon, Ph. D., an author on the paper and research professor in psychiatry at the University of Utah, describes the research, the different ways that the multitude of genetic changes could lead to the disease, and what these findings mean for designing gene...

In Utah, 21 people die every month from prescription drug overdoses. Modern computer databases are capable of identifying multiple prescriptions from different doctors for the same patient, which may lead to a decrease in this problem. Peter Kreiner, Ph. D., talks about the advantages of monitoring prescriptions statewide in an effort to prevent overdoses.

New parabolic skis allow skiers to have more control on the slope, but the new shape may lead to injuries, even for experienced skiers. Orthopedic surgeon Dr. David Rothberg discusses training to prevent these types of injuries and the importance of posture on parablobic skis.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) mimics the symptoms of a really bad cold. It is especially dangerous for premature babies and children with existing lung or heart ailments and generally requires special treatment. Cindy Gellner, MD , describes the virus, its symptoms, how it differs from the common cold, and what actions to take if you suspect your child has RSV.

Sleep apnea, sleepwalking and sleep talking all have an impact on sleep quality for both the person suffering from the sleep disorder and the person they share a bed with. Dr. Kirtly Jones explores the realms of sleep comfort with neurologist and sleep specialist Dr. Chris Jones. They discuss the importance of undisrupted sleep and how to approach talking to a bed partner who might be waking you u...

Holiday meals bring with them lots of butter, cream, and extra helpings of dessert. But just because you’re trying to eat healthier doesn’t mean you need to miss out on your favorite foods this Thanksgiving. Dietitian Kary Woodruff shares some tips for slimming down your turkey dinner while still getting all the great tastes of comfort food you love.

Bam.iobio is the first app of its kind that allows scientists to analyze genome sequence data on their web browser, interactively, and in real-time, without having to rely on terabytes of storage and vast sources of computing power. The resource, developed by a team led by Gabor Marth, DSc, co-director of the USTAR Center for Genetic Discovery and human genetics professor at the University of Utah...

Although the symptoms of gluten sensitivity and celiac disease are quite similar, they have very different causes. Dr. Cindy Gellner goes over the causes, signs and symptoms of gluten sensitivity and celiac disease and discusses how to tell if your child is suffering from a gluten problem.

The tropical waters of the Pacific Ocean are one of the richest sources of biodiversity on Earth. It not only teems with life, but also with extraordinary chemical compounds not found on land. Eric Schmidt, Ph. D., professor of medicinal chemistry at the University of Utah, searches marine organisms for novel compounds that could be transformed into therapeutics, such as medicines to combat pain o...

The fight against breast cancer understandably has received much attention, but many women would be surprised to discover that lung cancer is a bigger threat to them. Dr. Kirtly Jones spells out the terrifying statistics and offers advice for avoiding the risks.

Sixty million Americans act as caregivers to loved ones in their family or community who are not able to function on their own. Dr. Kirtly Jones talks candidly with Kathleen Ivey , a primary caregiver whose husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s nine years ago. In this touching interview, Kathleen tells of her experiences and coping mechanisms for full-time caregiving.

Did you know you can look at your medical records when you’re traveling in case of an emergency? Dr. Tom Miller and Dr. Mike Strong bring us up-to-date on how records are shared and what government mandates will do to unify everyone’s medical information. From smart phone apps to digital X-rays and beyond, Drs. Miller and Strong examine the worldwide transformation of medical informatics.

Black children are less likely to be diagnosed with and less likely to receive broad-spectrum antibiotics for ear infections than white children are, a new study has found. But the discrepancy in prescribing fewer broad-spectrum antibiotics means black children actually are more likely to receive care that aligns with the recommended guidelines for treating ear infections. Adam Hersh, MD, assistan...

If a fire started in your workplace, would you know how to react and escape? Annette Matherly from the University of Utah Health Care Burn Center offers tips that could save your life. She talks strategies, studies and the most important thing to do if you get trapped.

Most women have periods in their lives, however brief or lengthy, where they do not wish to get pregnant. Dr. Kirtly Jones gives a brief history of contraceptive methods over the years and the continuing progress of birth control. Whether you’re considering starting birth control or switching methods, curious about the side effects or cost, or just want to know more about female contraception, Dr....

We know it’s wrong, but domestic abuse still happens on a daily basis and leads to the deaths of 4,000 women each year. Why is this violence so prevalent? Social worker Wendy James discusses learned behaviors of abuser and abused, the vicious cycle of domestic violence and what victims can do to seek help.

Medicine has evolved from a guessing game to diagnoses, procedures and treatments that work. Dr. Bob Pendleton believes hospitalization is a high stakes venture. Not unlike a space launch, procedures must be the same every time. He and Dr. Tom Miller discuss how developing checklists to ensure safe, quality outcomes is at the core of improving care.

Food allergies in children are becoming increasingly common—and often misunderstood. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , breaks down the difference between an allergy and an intolerance, the most common triggers, and why some kids are more at risk. Learn how to recognize allergic reactions, what to do in an emergency, and how to safely manage allergies both at home and at school.

Willard H. Dere, MD, brings 25 years of experience in the biopharmaceutical industry to his new role as executive director of the Program in Personalized Health at the University of Utah. He is leading a team of researchers in transforming genetic discoveries into customized diagnostics, therapeutics, and tools for screening and prevention. He discusses the goals of the program and how he expects...

Severe grief or disruption can cause anyone to cry, and that’s normal. Prolonged crying that persists without reason is not normal and may indicate a serious condition requiring treatment. Dr. Kirtly Parker Jones talks about tears, crying, and emotions that are uniquely human.

Once considered instructions only for the terminally ill or elderly, advance directives are for everyone who wants to ensure their medical treatment wishes are honored, even if they can’t communicate with providers or family. The state of Utah has an easy-to-use website where you can simply fill out any advance directive forms. Dr. Tom Miller and Dr. Nate Wanner walk you through the process of com...

Choosing to enter recovery for alcohol addiction is a difficult decision that requires a lot of support. Psychiatrist Dr. Jason Hunziker discusses how to support a friend or family member without accidentally causing offense.

From the fear of needles to government conspiracy theories, some people are opposed to getting a flu shot. Dr. Susan Terry explains why the thoroughly tested flu vaccine is safe, virtually painless and very effective in controlling the spread of influenza.

As a baby’s digestive system develops, transitioning to table food is the eventual goal. Pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner walks through a baby’s feeding progression from newborn to age one. She goes over some dos and don'ts, recommended quantities and breast vs. bottle feeding.