Topic: The New England Journal of Medicine

US air pollution hits 10-year low, report finds

A report by the American Lung Association finds that air pollution has fallen to its lowest levels since the group began collecting data in 2000. The ALA credits the Clean Air Act. 

Medical malpractice suits: Only 1 in 5 pay

Medical malpractice suits target 1 in 14 doctors every year. Average medical malpractice payout is $275,000.

Medicare overhaul? Tea party sees a chance.

Medicare overhaul is priority of tea party activists planning to make themselves heard at town hall meetings in key battleground states. Supporters want Medicare overhaul along the lines of Rep. Ryan's plan.

Supreme Court case: Can drug companies buy doctors' prescription data?

Pharmaceutical companies are challenging a Vermont law that bans them from accessing prescription-drug records unless they have the doctor's permission.

Soda tax may be getting the axe in Colorado

Soda tax repeal: A proposed repeal of the soda tax in Colo. could save soda drinkers 2.9 percent but cost the state $12.3 million.

To improve schools, stop treating them like businesses

There’s no question that the push for standards and accountability is critical to progress in our worst-performing schools. But in the barrage of bottom-line-focused reform, we are losing sight of the actual students who make up a failing or flourishing school.

How reliable is personal DNA testing?

DNA testing deliver uncertainty. Faulty interpretation and incomplete genetic research are cited in direct-to-consumer tests.

Soldiers' wives: Fighting mental, emotional battles of their own

A new study shows higher levels of depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders among Army wives. New programs aim to help, but there's a stigma in a culture that values toughness.

Health care reform that pleases liberals and conservatives

Congress should adopt a national version of the self-insurance now practiced by many large employers.

Is comparing medical treatments akin to 'rationing' care?

Bills in Congress call for panels to conduct 'comparative effectiveness research.' Opponents say it could be the first step to government allocation of healthcare resources.

EarthTalk: Green alternatives to DEET-based bug sprays

Many botanical sprays tested were nearly worthless, but two new alternatives seem promising.

USA

New survey of Iraqi death toll: 151,000

Conducted jointly by the Iraqi government and the World Health Organization, its finding is lower than the 600,000 arrived at by John Hopkins University.