With so much attention being focused on the current state of health care, many people are now beginning to look deeper into how and why the system isn’t working so well. An important element of affecting positive change and ensuring that those in charge are being fair and equitable is to keep an eye on the ethics of the profession. From bioethics to law and medicine to pharmaceutical ethics, the following blogs will help you stay on top of the medical ethics in this tumultuous health care era.

Bioethics

With discussions ranging from euthanasia to conflicts of interest to stem cell research, the following blogs all present important news and opinions on the topic of bioethics.

1. blog.bioethics.net. Written by the editors of American Bioethics Journal, this blog includes information the editors receive and share with readers.
2. Women’s Bioethics Project. Written by both scholars and public policy makers, the issues in this blog cover medical ethics, current research, and more.
3. Sufficient Scruples. This blog focuses on "healthcare-related issues from a moral perspective," with a focus on both theoretical and practical issues.
4. Lost in Translation. Learn about bioethics as it pertains to cutting edge medical interventions in early phase clinical trials.
5. Medical Futility. Examine medical futility in his blog, which offers topics on physician/patient conflict, euthanasia, end-of-life care, and more.
6. Adventures in Ethics and Science. This ethics blog looks at science and the humanities and often includes medical topics such as medical research and mammograms.
7. Bioethics Discussion Blog. Find posts about the ethics associated with medicine, medical care, and science in this blog written by Dr. Maurice Bernstein.
8. Philosophy and Bioethics. Read about conflicts of interest, genetics, and more at this blog that focuses on the relationship between philosophy and bioethics.
9. Medical Humanities Blog. Written by a Ph.D. candidate in Medical Humanities, this blog focuses on both the definition of medical humanities as well as important issues such as embryos, vaccinations, and disability.
10. Research Ethics Blog. This thought-provoking blog examines the ethics of human-based research with articles touching on subjects such as autism, genetic research, and clinical trials.
11. Brainethics. With both news reports and the latest research posted on this blog, the intent is to keep abreast of research as it pertains to the brain and the ethics behind it.
12. LifeEthics. This group aims to uphold human dignity, protect human rights in medicine, and prevent discrimination–and their blog is an extension of the group’s work.
13. Ethics Illustrated. A project of Bioethics International, this blog posts articles and information with the goal of educating and empowering those in the medical industry to make decisions that will help people around the world.
14. Biopolitical Times. This blog takes a look at biopolitical ethics with a strong emphasis on genetics, reproductive health, and biotechnologies.

Medicine and the Law

An important factor shaping the medical profession and the ethics therein lies within the laws that surround the field. Stay on top of current legal issues in the medical field with these blogs.

15. Neuroethics and Law Blog. Death with dignity, placebos, and pain are some of the topics covered in this blog that focuses on the ethics of the law and the brain.
16. HealthLawBlog. Read about health law and policy at this blog, written by a professor of ethics, law, and medicine at three different schools.
17. HealthLawProf Blog. From drug labeling to plastics used in baby bottles, read posts on this blog that focuses on the issues where medicine and the law intersect.
18. Complimentary & Alternative Medicine Law Blog. Conflict of interest, unlicensed health care, and telephone consultations across state lines are just a few of the topics in this blog.
19. Drug and Device Law. Pharmaceutical and medical device liability are the subject of this blog written by two practicing attorneys.
20. FDA Law Blog. From a law firm specializing in drug development, advertising, and health care law as it pertains to the FDA, this blog includes information on their topics of expertise.
21. Juvan’s Health Law Update. This lawyer writes about health care as a business venture and how it impacts the law.
22. Journal of Health Law & Policy. Read about current health laws and policies at this blog from Saint Louis University School of Law that invites reader participation.

International Medical Ethics Blogs

As the world grows more connected, medicine cannot be isolated to ethics in just one country. The following bioethics blogs offer an international perspective.

23. Medical Ethics blog. This blog at the Toronto Star, written by a long-time ethics journalist, gives a Canadian perspective on North American medical ethics.
24. Journal of Medical Ethics blog. From the esteemed Journal of Medical Ethics, this international blog discusses medical ethics topics ranging from genetics to bioethics and more.
25. Maguire Center Ethics Blog: Medical ethics Archives. From organ donation to physicians and placebos, the medical ethics section of this blog touches on many current issues in the field of medicine.
26. PharmaExec Blog. Global pharmaceutical matters are the subject of the posts at this blog.
27. Medical Humanities. With a strong British influence, this blog discusses bioethics, technology, and also offers literature and performance reviews that pertain to the subject.
28. Scientific Misconduct Blog. This blogger from the UK does an excellent job of staying on top of worldwide blunders, especially as they relate to the pharmaceutical industry.
29. Global Bioethics Blog. Read about issues concerning bioethics and research ethics in sub-Saharan Africa with topics ranging from AIDS to health and human rights.

The State of Health Care

From rants to suggestions on change, the following blogs enlighten and educate the reader on the current state of health care and what we can do to make positive changes.

30. The Health Advocate. A collaborative blog that includes professors, students, and alumni of The Health Advocacy Program at Sarah Lawrence, this blog examines the issues surrounding patient advocacy and the current state of health care in America.
31. The Health Care Blog. This blog will keep you updated on the current state of health care with news stories, stories from real people, and editorials.
32. Health Care Renewal. Read about the state of health care and threats to the current system stemming from abuse of power at this blog that also includes a heavy emphasis on conflicts of interest.
33. Hooked: Ethics, Medicine, and Pharma. The posts in this blog examine the issues surrounding conflict of interest and how it affects medical care, especially as it pertains to the pharmaceutical industry.
34. Health Care Organizational Ethics. Harvard professor, Jim Sabin, writes about the state of health care, with topics such as personal responsibility, pharmaceuticals, and hospital ethics.
35. Wachter’s World. Bob Wachter blogs about hospitalists, hospitals, and their quality and safety.
36. EMedConcepts. Dr. Steven J. Davidson blogs about hospital-based medicine and growing leadership in the field.
37. California Medicine Man. Dr. John S. Ford shares his experience and wisdom in his blog that touches on policy, medicine, patients, and more.
38. Dr. Thompson’s Blog. This practicing pediatrician and professor of pediatrics writes about the state of health care with a focus on children and family issues.
39. The Physician Executive. Read about the business of medicine as well as current medical policy issues in this blog.
40. Health Care for All. This blog takes a look at the current state of health care with a decidedly strong emphasis for finding solutions for a broken health care system.
41. Disruptive Women in Health Care. With a specific perspective of women in medicine, men are not excluded in this blog that focuses on making positive changes in the current health care system.

Pharmaceuticals

The pharmaceutical industry has been under close scrutiny of late and these blogs work to keep readers informed on the latest developments and ethical perspectives coming from this section of the medical field.

42. Hooked: Ethics, Medicine, and Pharma. Examine the ethics of the relationship between medicine and the pharmaceutical industry in this blog by Dr. Howard Brody.
43. Pharmalot. Written by journalist Ed Silverman, who has covered the pharmaceutical industry for over 12 years, this blog brings the latest news on the pharmaceutical front.
44. Prescription Access Litigation. PAL works to reduce the pricing of prescription drugs through both education and class-action litigation. This blog is where they share news that relates to prescription drug and ease (or difficulty) of access to the American people.
45. Pharm Aid. Presenting the latest news in pharmaceuticals, this blog also offers some editorial detail on the industry with an eye to keeping things fair.
46. Drugwonks. This blog is an extension of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest, which researches the latest drug policies with the goal of making medicine more attainable for all.
47. Eye on FDA. Written by Mark Senak, this blog offers news and information on pharma legislation, marketing, and more.
48. Drug Channels. Read this blog to find out the latest news on pharmaceuticals, how they get to where they are going, and how this journey affects the consumers.
49. PharmaComa. Find out what is happening in the world of counterfeit pharmaceuticals with this blog, written by an employee of an pharmaceutical company who works as an anti-counterfeiter.
50. Drug Injury Watch. Devoted to keeping an eye on the pharmaceutical industry through drug injury, this blog not only offers news and information, but also has a great listing of resources to help keep consumers safe.

Jacob Diner was a revolutionary pharmacist of his time and founded the Fordham Pharmacy School, as well as many pharmaceutical programs in New York.  Hailing from Russian and Jewish roots, Diner was raised in Germany but moved to New York to pursue his education, earning a medical degree from Fordham University.  He returned to the university later on to found the pharmacy school and become the dean of the college for twenty years after.

He had a harder struggle than many other pharmacists of the time because he had a problem of his nationality (he had no birth certificate from Russia or Germany) and due to his Jewish roots.  However, Diner proved his worth within the pharmaceutical industry and was well known in many pharmaceutical circles as a pioneer in the industry.  The Fordham School of Pharmacy was founded in 1912 and Diner continued to be the dean of the college until 1932.  While there have been many pioneers of pharmacy and pharmacy school since this time, Diner represents one of the first who struggled to make a pharmacy school that accepted students of all backgrounds in a city that was known as the melting pot of the nation.

Pharmacy school  has now become a widely accepted college of many major universities and is usually found within large state schools, much different from the time of Diner in the early twentieth century.  Diner would be impressed with pharmacy school of our time, not only because of its prominence within the nation, but because of the progress the pharmaceutical industry has made since his time.  The drug industry has grown exponentially, namely due to early pioneers of the pharmacy school programs which helped expand the industry within the country.  We now all have easy access to pharmacies in most cities and can therefore combat many illnesses with revolutionary breakthroughs that have occurred within many drugs.  Diner helped contribute to this change, nearly a century ago, by proving that any university can have a pharmacy school and anyone can be a pharmacist.
 

Living a long, healthy life is a goal many would like to achieve. Luckily, there are plenty of things you can do to help stack the deck in your favor. From lifestyle changes to good nutrition to eating specific foods, the following list will help you find out how to help reduce your risk for disease and illness. There are also plenty of suggestions to help prevent specific illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s.

Environment

Creating a healthier environment for yourself and others will help reduce your risk for cancer and other illnesses. Follow these suggestions to help prevent serious health problems.

1. Avoid herbicides and pesticides. With plenty of natural ways to get rid of unwanted insects and solutions to eliminate weeds, you can easily avoid using these chemicals.
2. Keep plastics out of foods. Don’t microwave plastic or put hot foods in plastic. Also, avoid using canned foods with white linings inside–these contain bisphenol-A.
3. Drink filtered water. Whether you use a filtration pitcher or a more elaborate system for your house, switch to filtered water that has fewer impurities such as pesticides, lead, and dangerous bacteria.
4. Choose beauty products wisely. Select beauty products that do not have synthetic fragrances or phthalates (usually found in nail polish), and don’t overuse products, either.
5. Avoid bad air days. On days when the air quality drops below "moderate," stay indoors to avoid breathing in toxic air–especially if you have lung or heart issues.
6. Use natural cleaning products. Cleaning your house doesn’t mean you have to fill it with toxic chemicals. Instead, use natural products that clean just as well and are safer.
7. Use non-toxic paint. Before your next painting project around the house, do your research and find a non-toxic paint that is safer for your health.
8. Be aware of carbon monoxide dangers. From faulty space heaters to idling your car in the garage, learn about the hidden dangers of carbon monoxide, which can contribute to heart disease and even death.
9. Learn about environmental threats. Many people don’t realize the way our environment impacts health. Reading research-based articles such as Environmental Threats to Healthy Aging will help you stay informed about connections between your health and the environment.
10. Live green. Whether you purchase a green-built house or just make conscious choices about the products you buy (and even how you will bring them home), by living green, you are doing your part to reduce the negative environmental effects on your health.

Nutrition

Good nutrition helps prevent a number of diseases. These tips will get you started with a better way of eating.

11. Eat a balanced diet. Make sure your diet includes a variety of foods that include grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean meats.
12. Get plenty of antioxidants. Foods that are high in antioxidants are an excellent choice for preventing health risks. Antioxidants work to counteract free radicals, which damage cell structure.
13. Eat hormone-free meat. The best meat you can eat to reduce your risk of diseases such as cancer is organic meat that has not been given hormones.
14. Avoid fish with high mercury content. Fish is an excellent choice for brain health, but only if you aren’t putting tons of mercury into your body at the same time. Find out which types of fish have the least amount of mercury and stick with those.
15. Maintain a healthy weight. Being too heavy or too thin or fluctuating wildly between sizes puts your body at risk for plenty of health problems. Get to a healthy weight gradually and stick with it.
16. Reduce fast foods. Reducing, making wise fast food choices, or even eliminating fast food from your diet is one of the healthiest nutritional changes you can make.
17. Store food wisely. Follow guidelines for food storage to ensure you are not eating old food that can make you sick or contaminating your food with harmful bacteria.
18. An apple a day. The old adage is true–an apple a day may keep the doctor away. Apples are shown to help reduce the risk for heart disease, some cancers, asthma, and Type II diabetes.
19. Go vegetarian. Many advocate a vegetarian diet to reduce risk for many problems such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and some types of cancer because of the low fat and high fiber nature of a vegetarian diet.
20. Eat organic. Eliminate unnecessary chemicals by eating organic foods that don’t have all the pesticides and herbicides the regular food does. Also, organic food is thought to have more nutrients and is not made with artificial colorings or flavorings (even more unnecessary chemicals).

Exercise

The connection between exercise and reducing risk for a number of health issues from cancer to heart disease to Alzheimer’s are well known. These tips will help you get the exercise you need to keep illness at bay. If you have been sedentary, be sure to check with your doctor before starting any new exercise routine.

21. Do something every day. Whether you take a walk, go to the gym, or head to the courts for a little one-on-one, do something physically active every day.
22. Park at a distance. Don’t vie for the closest parking spot, but choose a location further from where you need to go. The extra walking will add up, and you will reduce the stress brought on by fighting with other shoppers trying to get the close spots.
23. Bike to work. If you live close enough, try to ride your bike to work at least one day each week.
24. Take the stairs. If you work or live in a building with an elevator and you only need to go one or two flights, take the stairs. If you need to go higher, walk a few flights, then take the elevator.
25. Get a pedometer. You may be surprised at how little you actually walk each day. Get a pedometer for a few dollars and not only determine how much you are already walking, but use it as a motivational tool to help you walk more each day.
26. Do yard work. Between mowing the lawn and keeping your yard in top health and looking beautiful, you can really put in some exercise.
27. Find a buddy. Find someone who will be an exercise partner a few times a week to help keep your motivation up. Choose something you both enjoy such as walking, tennis, or going to the gym.
28. Find motivation. Whether you need a routine, a variety of different exercises, or a well-stocked iPod, find what you need to make your exercise time enjoyable and motivating.
29. Make it easy. Learn ways to incorporate quick and easy exercises into your everyday activities and you will create an exercise habit with very little effort.
30. Be realistic. You probably won’t be running a marathon in two weeks and you may even fall off the exercise wagon completely a few times. Realize that it takes time to get in the habit and work your way to good fitness, so set realistic expectations for yourself.

Lifestyle

From self-exams to sleeping well, find out what type of changes you can make in you life to help prevent disease.

31. Do self-exams. Breast, prostate, and testicular self-exams are important tools that can alert you to any health issues early when treatment is more effective.
32. Practice safe sex. Reduce the risk of HIV and other STDs by practicing safe sex.
33. Reduce stress. Living in a constant state of stress leaves your body vulnerable to illness and disease. Eliminate chronic stress from your life to reduce health risks.
34. Fly safely. Avoid Deep Vein Thrombosis when flying by standing up and moving around occasionally during your flight, staying hydrated, and taking aspirin.
35. Drive safely. Always buckle up when in the car and learn to drive defensively. Safe driving habits will help prevent injury due to accidents.
36. Drink in moderation. While one or two drinks may actually promote health, excessive drinking causes many health risks you want to avoid.
37. Stop smoking. Not only is smoking a cancer risk, it also causes lung disease, heart attack, stroke, and a whole host of other health problems. Get help to stop smoking today.
38. Sleep well. Getting enough sleep each night will not only help reduce stress, but studies show it may also reduce the risk of cancer in women who are also exercising.
39. Think positively. Not only will you will feel empowered to make positive, healthy changes in your life, but many people credit positive thinking with helping them overcome serious illness.
40. Find balance. Too much work can send your life into an unhealthy way of living. Learn to find the balance between work and personal time.

Specific Foods

While good nutrition is important for a healthy life, some foods are touted as better for preventing illnesses such as cancer and cardiovascular disease. Check out this list to see what you should be eating for preventing disease.

41. Dark chocolate. With plenty of antioxidants as well as benefits for cardiovascular health and stress relief, this delicious treat is one you in which you can indulge with relatively little guilt.
42. Green tea. Full of antioxidants and free of sugar, green tea is a healthy drink that is thought to help prevent cancer, lower cholesterol, boost immunity, and more.
43. Tomatoes. Tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been linked with preventing many types of cancers. Not only is this food good for you, it tastes great too.
44. Red wine. The health benefits of red wine have gained plenty of attention recently. From heart health to cancer prevention, red wine (in moderation) is said to have plenty of positive health benefits.
45. Salmon. This super food is high in omega-3 EFAs and protein, low in cholesterol and contains B vitamins, calcium, zinc, iron and magnesium.
46. Blueberries. Known as a superfood, blueberries are high in antioxidants and full of vitamins C, K, fiber, and manganese.
47. Avocado. This delicious fruit is also nutritious. Avocados have lots of B-complex vitamins and are an anti-inflammatory.
48. Whole grains. Not only are whole grains full of vitamins and minerals, they are also touted as a preventative food to help protect you from cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and digestive problems.
49. Hazelnuts. A great source of vitamin E, hazelnuts also offer protection against cancer and heart disease.
50. Broccoli. High in calcium, potassium, and B vitamins, broccoli is also thought to help prevent certain illnesses such as cancer.

Preventing Cancer

Take this advice to help prevent cancer. From skin care to selenium, these tips offer great ways to reduce your risks.

51. No tobacco. Whether you smoke, dip, or chew, stop using tobacco to help reduce the risk of lung, mouth, throat, and other cancers.
52. Sun protection. Don’t forget to protect your skin from the sun every time you are outside. Use sun block with an SPF factor of at least 15, even in the winter, and get in the habit of wearing a hat. Also, avoid being outside at peak sun times.
53. Get screened. Don’t skip on the recommended screenings for your age and gender. Early detection is an important defense against cancer.
54. Know family history. There is often a genetic connection to certain cancers. If possible, know your family history to determine what your risk factors for cancer may be.
55. Low fat, high fiber. A diet low in fat and high in fiber (preferably from fruits and vegetables) has been shown to reduce the risk of some types of cancer.
56. Exercise. There is a strong correlation between exercise and cancer prevention. Not only is exercise important for overall health, but some say it can prevent up to 50% of cancers.
57. Avoid the microwave. Some studies indicate that microwaving food destroys almost all of the cancer-preventing qualities of healthy food. Steam your broccoli instead of microwaving it.
58. Avoid unnecessary x-rays. The radiation from x-rays puts you at risk for cancer, so unless that x-ray is absolutely necessary, think twice about getting it.
59. Selenium. This supplement is thought to help prevent cancer and there are even indications that it may slow or stop tumor growth.
60. Opt for thermography. Women, consider getting thermography screening instead of a mammogram. There is no radiation involved and may be able to detect cancer sooner than a mammogram.

Preventing Heart Disease and Stroke

Cardiovascular illnesses are certainly preventable. These suggestions will tell you what you should do to help prevent heart disease and stroke.

61. Control blood pressure. High blood pressure is the biggest risk factor for stroke. Controlling blood pressure greatly reduces your risk for both heart disease and stroke.
62. Reduce stress. Stress is a major contributor to heart disease. Reducing your stress levels will reduce your risk.
63. Lower cholesterol. High cholesterol indicates that your arteries are being clogged with fat. Lower your cholesterol to improve your health and reduce your risk for heart disease.
64. Lose weight. Obesity and being over weight leads to heart disease. A Body Mass Index of 25 or greater indicates you may be at risk for heart disease and stroke. Measure your BMI and see where you fall.
65. Limit alcohol. Too much alcohol can create high blood pressure, which can lead to heart failure or stroke.
66. Eat heart-healthy. A heart-healthy diet includes fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy and protein options.
67. Get screenings. Make sure your blood pressure and cholesterol are within healthy ranges by getting screened at the recommended intervals.
68. Reduce salt. Reducing the salt in your diet can significantly cut your risk for heart disease and stroke. Be aware that even if you aren’t adding much salt to your food, processed and fast food are heavily salted already.
69. Take B vitamins. A good quality B complex vitamin may lead to reduced levels of homocysteine, thereby reducing risk for heart disease.
70. Drink tea. Both black and green tea seem to reduce the risk for heart disease and stroke in studies done in Japan and Europe.

Preventing Diabetes

Type II diabetes is a growing concern in America with more and more people being diagnosed each day. Find out how to protect yourself from developing this disease with the tips below.

71. Learn about prediabetes. For many people who are at risk for developing Type II diabetes, prediabetes is a warning sign that require changes in order to prevent full-blown diabetes from developing.
72. Reduce weight. Many doctors recommend overweight people lose 5 to 7% of of their weight to prevent diabetes from occurring.
73. Know about body shape. People who gain weight around their mid-section are at higher risk for diabetes and should be more vigilant in prevention.
74. Increase exercise. Shoot for 30 minutes a day at least five days a week to insure you are getting enough exercise to reduce your diabetes risk.
75. Learn your history. If you have parents or siblings with diabetes, your chances increase significantly for getting diabetes. Also, certain ethnic groups are at higher risk.
76. Reduce blood pressure. High blood pressure is a risk factor for diabetes. Controlling your blood pressure will help reduce your risk.
77. Reduce cholesterol. High cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood are risks for diabetes. Monitor and control the amount of fats in your blood to help prevent diabetes.
78. Eat vitamin C. Eating fruits and vegetables high in vitamin C has shown to reduce the risk for diabetes. This study indicates that supplements won’t do the trick, so seek out the best produce for the job.
79. Drink less sugar. From sodas to fruit juices, many drinks contain high amounts of sugar. Switch to water, tea, or other healthy drinks without all the sugar.
80. Choose carbohydrates wisely. Carbohydrates like pasta, rice, potatoes, and bread get converted to sugar much more quickly than complex carbohydrates like whole grains and beans.

Preventing Alzheimer’s

As science finds ways for people to live longer, the risk for brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s grows, too. Find out what you can do to help protect yourself from developing Alzheimer’s with these suggestions.

81. Omega-3. Many studies have concluded that getting omega-3s through foods such as salmon or though fish oil supplements work to delay or prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s.
82. Keep your mind active. Do crossword puzzles, play chess, or participate in any other activities that keep your mind sharpened.
83. Avoid unnecessary chemicals. Exposure to certain chemicals such as pesticides has been linked with brain disorders, including Alzheimer’s.
84. Caffeine. One study has shown strong evidence that caffeine may prevent Alzheimer’s as well as help those who have already developed it.
85. Vitamins and minerals. A balanced intake of vitamins and minerals can help prevent Alzheimer’s. Determine if you have a deficit and add any necessary supplements to help you find your balance.
86. Fresh foods. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables is better for your overall health as well as reduces the amount of chemicals that are found in processed foods that may put you at risk for Alzheimer’s.
87. Stay socially active. Being connected with others and avoiding isolation has shown to improve your chances for preventing Alzheimer’s.
88. Stay away from heavy metals. Avoid fish and seafood high in mercury, don’t cook in aluminum cookware, avoid using deodorant with aluminum in it, and avoid lead exposure.
89. Anti-inflammatory drugs. Taking medications like ibuprofen have been shown to reduce the nerve cell damage that occurs in those who develop Alzheimer’s. While this treatment probably won’t prevent Alzheimer’s, it does retain brain function that may have been lost.
90. Maintain good cardiovascular health. There is a connection between good cardiovascular health and brain health, so make sure you keep your blood pressure and cholesterol down.

Preventing Respiratory Disorders

From asthma to allergies to lung cancer, learn how you can help prevent these respiratory illnesses from occurring or getting worse.

91. Avoid smoke. If you smoke, stop now. If you do not smoke, avoid second-hand smoke and smoke-filled places like bars. Cigarette smoke is especially dangerous for those with compromised lung health.
92. Exercise. Getting regular exercise stretches the lungs and bronchial tubes to help promote easier breathing. If you already have asthma, you may need to use an inhaler prior to exercise, but don’t let it stop you from this important element of prevention and healing.
93. Avoid pollen. For allergy and asthma sufferers, certain pollens can trigger reactions. Stay inside on high pollen days or talk to your doctor about medications or natural treatments for allergy control.
94. Control dust inside. Dust mites are a source of allergy agony for many people. Keeping dust cleaned up, using an air purifier, and wrapping mattresses and pillows in hypoallergenic covers can all help reduce lung problems.
95. Get a flu shot. Those susceptible to lung problems should consider getting a flu shot prior to the flu season. Getting the flu can quickly deteriorate to a dangerous case of pneumonia.
96. Wash hands. Keeping hands germ-free by proper washing goes far to preventing colds and the flu, which can quickly turn into a respiratory illness such as bronchitis.
97. Reduce indoor air pollution. With simple solutions such as switching to chemical-free cleaners, using high-end air filters, and even having house plants in your home, you can improve the quality of the air in your house.
98. Wear a mask. If you are working with harsh chemicals, sawing wood, or any other project that releases particles in the air, be sure to wear a mask over your mouth and nose to ensure you are not breathing in contaminants that may harm your lungs.
99. Vitamin E. Some researchers have determined that vitamin E, especially in oranges, may be effective in preventing lung disease.
100. Test for radon. Radon is an odorless gas that is emitted from the earth’s crust. Radon is not a problem when released in the open air, but when it is captured in a house, it does not dissipate as well. Breathing radon causes lung cancer, so testing for radon is an important step to prevent serious lung illness.

Pharmacy schools in California boast some of the most extensive degree and research programs in the country, but are they necessarily the best ones to attend?  After years of studies from students, it is clear that pharmacy schools in California may have higher rankings for specific programs, but they are comparable to programs throughout the country. 

Some of the earliest pharmacy programs are in fact in California, but this does not necessarily mean that they are the best in the nation.  Rather, they have become the most distinguished and the most sought after for many students, much like Harvard and MIT have the same respectable titles.  However, pharmacy programs have popped up in a number of locations around the nation, indicating that students do not have to travel exorbitant distances solely to earn a pharmacy degree.  Pharmacy programs at major state universities have emerged in recent years, rivaling those of California schools and indicating that state schools have the same amount of resources as the schools in California.

Lately, pharmacy programs around the country have been taking great leaps in research and have helped out the pharmaceutical industry more than ever before, as vaccines have become more heavily researched within pharmacy school.  Pharmacists no longer have to be confined in the small Walgreen’s box of a career, but instead are now more flexible to include many different paths in life.  The research path has stemmed from pharmacy schools which cater exclusively to research programs, many on the East Coast.  California no longer reigns supreme in this regard, but is in fact a heavy contender for the top research program title in the pharmacy program. 

As the years continue, online pharmacy programs seem set to overtake other traditional programs as more students enroll in online courses.  While some programs require on-site course hours, others simply require a set number of online courses and then a certain amount of residency in a pharmacy.  Online programs can additionally attract students from any state, and have overtaken numbers of enrolled students in pharmacy schools around the nation.  While pharmacy schools in California remain heavily sought after by incoming students and are continuously ranked high, they are no longer the only option for hopeful pharmacy students as more programs emerge every year, set to overtake the rival programs with their graduation rate and research programs. 
 

There are many sites around the internet that pride themselves on their ranking abilities, constantly ranking the best online colleges, the best technical schools, and the best pharmacy schools.  However, if you really want a deeper look into traditional school rankings, US News & World Report typically publishes a decent ranking system for colleges, graduate schools, and even hospitals. 

Located under the “best graduate school” section, US News places pharmacy schools in a similar bracket, ranking the schools on a 1-5 scale, with 5 being the best.  The University of California in San Francisco is their top pick from 2008 (the 2009 rankings are not yet available), which is not surprising.  California has led the way in innovative technologies for teaching in many graduate schools.  Pharmacy school is no different, and many California schools have developed green methods of teaching, as well as have advanced many research centers within universities. 

The second school on their ranking list is the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, with a 4.4 score.  While North Carolina is not typically known for academic programs, their pharmacy school has revolutionized the university and has become a leader in the industry through its research, degree programs, faculty, and students.  The school also has the advantage of being placed next to one of the country’s best hospital systems, offering students excellent opportunities to understand the health care industry and the pharmaceutical industry at the same time, learning where the two overlap. 

The University of Minnesota comes in third, at 4.3, offering similar options as the top two schools: leading pharmacy program, close proximity to world class hospital services.  Additioanlly, the University of Texas at Austin, coming in fourth, offers students a chance to attend one of the largest schools in the country in the state capital.  Texas has prided itself on its school in Austin as being one of the largest that offers consistently reputable programs in every type of degree program.  The pharmacy school is no different, and offers students the opportunity to transfer to the school after spending 2-3 years in a previous university. 

Finally, Ohio State University ranks fifth in this system, with a 4.1, tying with University of Kentucky, University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, and University of Washington.  If this pharmacy ranking system demonstrates anything to us, it is that great pharmacy programs exist on both coasts of the United States, and everywhere in between.  You do not have to live in a certain area anymore, but can attend award-winning institutions on most parts of the country. 

By Tara Miller

The fast-paced lifestyle that so many lead today has resulted in a generation of individuals with high anxiety. Whether you suffer from occasional panic attacks or spend most of your day worrying, anxiety doesn’t have to be a part of your life. Skip the potentially addictive anti-anxiety medications and give these natural methods a try. With tips ranging from reducing stress to aromatherapy to changes in nutrition, you will find plenty of great natural ideas to try to reduce your anxiety.

Stress Reduction

A major source of anxiety is the stress that creeps up through daily living. Take these suggestions to reduce stress and help eliminate anxiety.

1. Let go of control. Learn to accept that some things are beyond your ability to control. Once this expectation is gone, you will likely discover a reduction of your stress.
2. Do one thing at a time. Slow down and stop multitasking. Doing one thing at a time will reduce stress and allow you to perform each task more efficiently.
3. Learn to say "no". Turning away what you don’t have time to do will free you from obligations that will end up hanging over your head.
4. Emotions. Keep in touch with your emotions. Pretending you don’t have feelings of anger, sadness, or loneliness will just push these feeling down until they come back out in negative ways.
5. Let go of anger. Don’t hold on to anger or grudges. Instead, learn how to let go so you can focus on more positive things.
6. Identify stressors. Realize what makes you feel stressed and do something to change them. If watching the news makes you stressed, turn it off. If driving in traffic raises your blood pressure, then find ways to change or delay driving so you aren’t in traffic.
7. Learn time management techniques. Organizing your time and energy will help you complete tasks more efficiently and clear the way for less stress in your life.
8. Make time for yourself. Making sure you carve out some time for yourself every day will not only give you time to do something you enjoy, but will help you relax as well.
9. Journal. Identify stressors or just get out those negative feelings you may not want to tell other people with a private journal.
10. Find your sense of humor. Learning to laugh at life and finding the joy every day will go a long way to reducing stress.

Herbs

Herbal medicine has been around for centuries. Take the advice of generations past and try these natural cures for your anxiety.

11. Passionflower. Passionflower has been used for hundreds of years as a natural anxiety reliever and for insomnia. In 2001 a study showed that it was as effective as a popular anti-anxiety medication.
12. Valerian root. Used for centuries as both a sleeping aid and as an aid for anxiety, many people rely on valerian root for relief.
13. Chamomile. A popular tea, drinking chamomile will help reduce anxiety.
14. Kava Kava. This plant from the South Pacific is frequently used to treat anxiety. However, those with liver problems should avoid using this herb.
15. St. John’s Wort. Used for centuries, this herb helps combat anxiety and depression, as well as relieve muscle aches and reduce inflammation.
16. Verbena. Also known as wild hyssop or vervain, this herb is often used to help those suffering from anxiety and depression.
17. Skullcap. Help your nervous tension subside by trying skullcap as a tea or in one of its many other forms.
18. Cowslip. Anxiety is just one of the many disorders this herb helps to heal.
19. Lemon balm. Lemon balm helps reduce anxiety, especially when used with other calming herbs such as chamomile.
20. Hops. Used to help cure anxiety and restlessness, hops is generally combined with passionflower, chamomile, or valerian root.

Therapies

From acupuncture to hydrotherapy, find a natural way to help your body heal the effects of anxiety.

21. Acupuncture. Acupuncture generally leaves people feeling relaxed and calm and is an excellent way to control anxiety.
22. Biofeedback. Becoming aware of your physical responses to anxiety and learning how to control them is an excellent therapy for those suffering from anxiety.
23. Hypnotherapy. Anxiety can be successfully managed through a variety of hypnosis techniques.
24. Craniosacral therapy. Reducing anxiety is among one of the many benefits of focusing attention to the skull and base of the spine through craniosacral therapy.
25. Polarity therapy. This integrated approach to healing is often helpful for relieving anxiety and includes soft touch and assessment of energy balance.
26. Color therapy. Using color and light to balance energy, this therapy is helpful in restoring balance and calm.
27. Crystal therapy. Many people believe in the healing properties of specific stones or crystals. Try rose quartz if you suffer from anxiety.
28. Bioelectromagnetic therapy. The manipulation of magnetic and electromagnetic fields as a source of natural healing has also been used to successfully reduce anxiety by reducing muscle tension.
29. Hydrotherapy. Relaxing in a hot bath is an excellent way to sooth anxiety. Add herbs or essential oils to enhance the hydrotherapy experience.
30. Reiki. Reiki is a treatment that transfers energy from the practitioner to the client and works to aid in healing and restoring the mind and spirit.

Body Work

Just about everyone can appreciate the relaxing qualities of massage, but that isn’t the only type of body work that can help reduce anxiety. Find out what else you can try from this list.

31. Massage. Getting a massage produces deep relaxation and calms the body. Massage also eliminates toxins in the body, leaving you feeling better physically as well as mentally.
32. Shiatsu. Working along the same premise as acupuncture, shiatsu involves using hands and fingers on acupressure points to bring about positive healing effects and relaxation.
33. Reflexology. Typically reflexology focuses on feet and hands, but this technique with the ears can help eliminate anxiety, too.
34. Thai Yoga Bodywork. Those who have experience Thai Yoga Bodywork love the relaxing and restorative feelings that result.
35. Healing Touch. The gentle work of a Healing Touch therapy session is reportedly an excellent treatment for anxiety and depression.
36. Therapeutic Touch. This form of therapy, frequently used by nurses, shows promise of reducing anxiety in certain patient groups such as burn victims and those with cancer.
37. Myofascial trigger therapy. Working similarly to acupuncture, this type of body work that involves deep tissue pressure on specific points, can result in many of the same relaxing feelings gained from acupuncture.
38. Alexander therapy. Learn how to perform daily tasks without the resulting muscle tension and pain that is so common with the Alexander Technique. For those with anxiety, loosening tight muscles can bring a noticeable difference.
39. Watsu. This easy manipulation of the body in warm water brings about relaxation and a general sense of well-being.
40. Trager work. This body work is based on the work of Dr. Milton Trager and works on the premise that through physical and emotional stress, people will teach their bodies to become stiffened. By loosening the body and unlearning the habits, the patients feel better physically and emotionally.

Mind/Body Techniques

From Tai Chi to meditation to exercise, follow these suggestions for ways to strengthen the connection between your mind and body to reduce anxiety.

41. Yoga. An excellent way to get exercise, center your mind, and find calm, yoga is a great choice for beating anxiety.
42. Tai Chi. This popular body movement exercise is excellent for anxiety and depression and is gentle enough for people of any age to enjoy.
43. Self-hypnosis. Try this simple technique to see if it reduces the anxiety in your life.
44. Sleep. Getting enough good quality sleep each night is important to help manage anxiety. Be sure you follow a routine with consistent bedtime and waking times and don’t drink caffeine or alcohol before bed.
45. Meditation. Set aside a few minutes every day for quiet meditation. The negative thoughts that accompany anxiety are quieted through meditation.
46. Breathing. The deep, relaxing form of breathing used during yoga practice can bring benefits to your mental health.
47. Exercise. Getting regular exercise is not only good for your body, but it also helps keep your brain in good shape. Many professionals recommend getting regular exercise each day to combat anxiety and stress.
48. Qi Gong. This ancient Chinese practice can help you reduce anxiety. Read these tips to find out how.
49. Isolation tank. Those who have undergone the remarkable experience of floating in an isolation tank report a huge reduction in stress and anxiety.
50. Guided imagery. Learn how to engage your senses to bring about a feeling of calm and promote healing with this powerful technique.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy involves using the essential oils from plants and adding them to massage oil, bath water, in a room diffuser, or even inhaling from a tissue. Try these essential oils to find a scents to help you relax.

51. Bergamot. Bergamot is good for raising self confidence as well as soothing frustration.
52. Lavender. A popular scent for relaxation and soothing anxious nerves, lavender is an excellent essential oil to reduce anxiety.
53. Jasmine. To reduce fear and help eliminate pessimism, jasmine is an excellent choice.
54. Frankincense. This scent slows down breathing, produces a sense of calm, and sooths anxious or obsessive feelings.
55. Lime. Lime is refreshing and uplifting and works to combat anxiety and depression.
56. Patchouli. Frequently used against anxiety and depression, patchouli helps put you in touch with your physical self.
57. Sandalwood. Sandalwood is great for reducing depression, tension, fear, and stress and also helps open the spirit.
58. Ylang ylang. This scent helps calm nervous tension and eases frustration and anger.
59. Rose. Soothing fear and anxiety, this famous scent also often brings brings happiness to those who smell it.
60. Cypress. Cypress soothes the nervous system and restores calm when you are feeling anxious.

Nutrition

Everyone has heard about the benefits of nutrition for your physical health, but good nutrition is also important for mental health. Follow these nutrition suggestions for ways to reduce anxiety.

61. Green tea. Not only is this powerhouse of a drink full of healthy antioxidants, it has also been shown to reduce anxiety. Drink a cup a day for great results.
62. Avoid caffeine. Caffeine replicates the symptoms of anxiety and when paired with a genuinely stressful day, will only make anxiety worse. Skip the coffee and sodas.
63. Multivitamin. Taking a good-quality multivitamin will help ensure that you are getting all the vitamins and minerals you need to keep your body in balance, which helps reduce anxiety.
64. Fish oil. Fish oil has many benefits for the brain and body alike and often helps eliminate depression and anxiety. Some studies have even documented the beneficial effects of fish oil on anxiety.
65. Mushrooms. The pantothenic acid found in mushrooms is often used in the treatment of anxiety. Give this food a try and see if it reduces your anxiety.
66. Alcohol only in moderation. While one glass of wine may calm your nerves, too much alcohol actually increases anxiety, so avoid too much alcohol.
67. Protein. When blood sugar levels fluctuate, you can experience anxiety and jitteriness. Eating protein helps keep your blood sugar levels stable.
68. Avocado. High in B vitamins and magnesium, this delicious fruit is a great way to combat anxiety through nutrition.
69. No refined sugar. Refined sugar wrecks havoc on your blood sugar levels, often leading to jittery, anxious feelings. If you are already suffering from anxiety, try natural sweeteners instead.
70. Turkey. High in tryptophan, which boosts serotonin in the brain, turkey is an excellent way to help elevate mood and reduce anxiety.

Bach Flowers

Dr. Edward Bach developed an alternative healing system based on the essences of specific flowers that are thought to provide physical and mental relief. Give these flower essences a try to ease your anxiety.

71. Rescue Remedy. With 5 of the 38 Bach Flower Essences in this remedy, it is specially designed to ease anxiety and stress.
72. Red chestnut. If you spend too much time worrying about the health and safety of loved-ones, try red chestnut essence to help loosen some of that worry.
73. Cherry plum. Help banish irrational thoughts that can easily feed anxiety with cherry plum essence.
74. Mustard flower. If depression comes with no reason, try mustard flower essence to ease the sadness and hopelessness.
75. Cerato. Trusting your own judgment and depending less on what others think are the benefits of this flower essence.
76. Gorse. Find relief from hopelessness and despair with this flower essence.
77. Rock water. Unrealistic expectations and giving too much of yourself can result in high levels of anxiety. Rock water essence will help you find a balance.
78. Impatiens. This flower essence will help ease irritation, frustration, and impatience.
79. Star of Bethlehem. Useful for easing the effects of shock, even from years past, this flower essence may provide relief.
80. Mimulus. If you have specific fears you want to ease, try mimulus essence to help with this.

Naturopathic Remedies

Rather than finding the necessary herbs, oils, or other ingredients to make your own remedy, try some of these natural remedies available for purchase.

81. Chill Pill. With Ashwagandha root extract, chamomile, valerian root, and lots of B vitamins, this vegetarian formula is sure to help you find your calm in a non-addictive way.
82. Anxiety Relief. This homeopathic medication provides relief from anxiety and panic. The tablets dissolve without water, so you can take them anywhere.
83. Kalm-Assure. Combining antothenic acid and GABA with herbs like passion flower and chamomile, this remedy seeks to provide relief both immediately and long-term.
84. Kava Stress Relief Organic Tea. The kava root in this tea will help relax you and the cinnamon will taste delicious.
85. Calming. Using multiple homeopathic formulas, this medication provides relief from anxiety as well as insomnia.
86. Tranquilnite Plus. Sometimes anxiety can prevent a good night’s sleep. Try this formula which includes valerian root, chamomile, and lavender to help you fall asleep and stay asleep.
87. Dr. Christopher’s Nerve Formula Extract. These herbal extracts work to help heal and strengthen the nervous system, which may help with anxiety.
88. Calm. This formula is made specifically to ease anxiety and uses GABA, L-Tyrosine, and Motherwort to help you find your calm.
89. Anxiety Relief. A combination of both tablets and spray, this remedy includes herbs like passionflower and valerian along with vitamins and minerals.
90. Mood Balance. These tablets contain herbs and vitamins to help sooth your mood and help you find your balance.

Helpful Articles

Read these articles to find suggestions for natural ways to send your stress and anxiety packing.

91. Anxiety Busting. This article offers great suggestions for nutrition, exercise, and other natural anxiety solutions.
92. Stress Reducers. Get plenty of tips on ways to reduce stress and help eliminate anxiety in this article.
93. Ten Ways to Reduce Stress. This article, written by Dr. Andrew Weil, outlines plenty of helpful suggestions for reducing anxiety and stress.
94. The Connection Between Mind and Body. Find out how the mind can work as a powerful tool in healing. Reduce anxiety and improve your health with the suggestions here.
95. Anti-Anxiety Diet. Learn how you can change your diet to help reduce anxiety from your life.
96. Natural Supplements that Reduce Anxiety. Examining three products that can reduce anxiety naturally, this article provides an in-depth look at how they work.
97. Natural Health Perspectives: Causes & Cures For Anxiety. Written by a naturopathic physician, this article outlines several ways to reduce your anxiety naturally.
98. How to Make Natural Cures for Anxiety. This brief article offers some sensible suggestions for reducing anxiety.
99. Thinking Happy Thoughts Helps Reduce Anxiety. Understand how being a positive thinker can change your anxiety levels with this blog post.
100. Natural Treatments to Relieve Anxiety & OCD. From cognitive therapy to supplements to lifestyle changes, this article offers plenty of great ways to beat anxiety naturally.

People around the world are concerned with providing healthy living conditions, medications, preventive care and more for their citizens so they can live long, healthy lives. These global health care blogs reflect the concerns from people of all countries and walks of life and can help you learn about health care issues that affect people young and old. Check these out to learn about technology, drugs, food safety and much more.

Global Health News and Views

These blogs can help you keep up on the latest happenings in health care and medical treatment around the world.

1. Global Health Report: Journalist Christine Gorman covers what’s up and coming in health care, what needs to change and what actually works in keeping people well.
2. UNACCEPTABLE: This blog deals with health around the world, focusing on the discrepancies that exist in health care systems.
3. Brown for Global Health: Published by Brown University, this blog addresses a multitude of issues related to world health.
4. Effect Measure: Check out Effect Measure for discussions on public health issues from food safety to antibiotics.
5. Global Health Beat: Discuss public health, politics, and more on this blog focused to health care issues around the world, especially in places where care is less than adequate or hard to obtain.
6. The Health Media Watch: You can’t believe everything you read in the media and this blog tries to separate the fact from fiction when it comes to health care news.
7. The Pump Handle: Check out this blog to chat with others about big public health issues.
8. Angry Toxicologist: This blog covers a range of public health issues and aims to translate news into terms the normal person can understand.
9. The Lancet Global Health Network: The Lancet is a leading global health journal, and on this site you can read the latest news, research and recommendations on public health.
10. Vital Report on Global Health: Give this site a read to learn about important global health issues like sanitation, flu pandemics and AIDS research.
11. Don Burke’s Global Health Blog: This blog is written by Donald S. Burke, MD, the dean of the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, and follows him around the world as he reports on global health care.
12. WorldHealthCareBlog: For a more business-oriented look at global health care, check out this blog created in partnership with the World Congress.
13. World Health News: Maintained by the Harvard School of Public Health, this blog provides the latest health news at home and abroad.
14. Global Health at MIT: Here you can find news and information about health relevant to MIT students and the larger community.
15. Global Health Nexus: Learn about culture, news and health care issues from around the world in this informative and entertaining blog.

Development and Policy

For information on development projects and health care policy worldwide, check out these blogs.

16. NextBillon.net: This blog is all about development through enterprise and aims to bring together businesspeople and academics from all kinds of backgrounds.
17. BCC Blog: BCC stands for Behavior Change Communication and contains "materials that have been developed by PSI’s Country Offices, addressing a variety of health issues."
18. Global Health and Foreign Policy Blog: Johns Hopkins University manages this blog which addresses issues of foreign policy that relate to health care.
19. Global Health Policy: From HIV/AIDS to pharmaceutical development, this blog addresses health care policies the world over.
20. Health Affairs: Written by a number of journalists, this blog covers a wide range of issues, but focuses mostly on US health care policy.
21. FP Public Health: If you’re interested not only in domestic health care but foreign policy as well, check out this blog.

HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS is a major health issues in many countries around the world and these blogs report the latest news and research on the disease.

22. The AIDS Awareness Blog: This blog is dedicated to raising AIDS awareness and dispelling many of the myths and falsehoods that surround it.
23. AIDS Truth: Find out the facts about HIV historically and in the newest research from this blog.
24. JID News: Focused on Asia, this blog addresses the health care issues that have arisen in places like Thailand, Hong Kong and elsewhere in the world due to AIDS.
25. HIV News: Here you’ll find the latest updates on HIV/AIDS news from around the world.
26. HIV and AIDS News: From AIDS in America to vaccines, this site provides the latest in news and research.
27. Politics and Policy of HIV/AIDS: On this blog you can learn about the political issues surrounding this virus.
28. AIDS.gov: This government site provides some helpful and accurate information about AIDS and HIV.

Pharmacology

Getting drugs to the people who need them is sometimes a complicated and politically charged issue. These blogs discuss pharmacology, drug research and worldwide distribution.

29. Terra Sigillata: Written by a researcher and educator with a PhD in pharmacology, this blog discusses dietary supplements, natural drugs, and much more.
30. Pharmalot: Learn all about drug development, marketing and the companies involved from this blog.
31. Essential Medicines News: This blog deals with issues of access to essential medicines around the world.
32. FasterCures: These bloggers hope to make a difference in world health care by speeding up the process of clinical development of drugs for deadly diseases.
33. Pharmaceuticals Blog: Here you can learn all about the sometimes dangerous side effects and news related to popular medications.
34. The International Medical Marketplace: Check out this blog to get insights into the business of health care and medicine.

Infectious Diseases

From avian flu to malaria, these blogs deal with how to prevent and treat infectious diseases the world over.

35. Superbug: With so many people taking antibiotics, new, drug-resistant strains of infections have developed. This blog tracks the research and information on one such strain of Staph.
36. H5N1: Here you’ll get all the news and information you need about avian flu.
37. Flu News Blog: Find out where and how the flu virus is spreading around the world in this blog, which can be an especially valuable read during cold season.
38. Aetiology: Tara Smith, professor of Epidemiology blogs about the spread, origins and evolutions of a variety of infectious diseases.
39. ProMed Mail: Check out this site for the latest updates on outbreaks of infectious diseases around the world.
40. CARE’s Avian Flu Blog: This blog is dedicated to providing the most recent information on the spread of avian flu.
41. VaccineEthics: Whether you believe in getting vaccinated or not, this blog is full of interesting and informative posts on the subject.
42. Malaria Matters: Malaria is a common disease in many warm parts of the world and this blog is dedicated to helping develop treatments and care so that malaria may one day be a thing of the past.
43. CDC Chatter: Learn what’s going on at the Center for Disease Control from this blog.
44. Epidemix: Give this blog a visit to learn about new research and technology in the field of contagious diseases.
45. Malaria Journal: Here you can find numerous articles on malaria treatments and prevention.
46. Infectious Diseases Blog: From milk microbes to tuberculosis, this blog covers all the bases when it comes to infectious diseases.
47. Hepatitis C Outreach Project Blog: Hepatitis affects thousands of people around the world and this blog helps them come together and learn about new research and treatment.
48. Disease Control Priorities Project: This project wants to help developing countries learn how to better manage their health care systems to prevent, treat and care for diseases of all kinds.
49. Quinntelligence: This blogger is researching vaccinations in Africa and chronicles his experiences and thoughts in this blog.
50. Global Health Report: Here you can find facts and information on diseases like malaria, AIDS and tuberculosis that cause millions of deaths each year.

Country and Continent Specific

Read about one country or continent at a time on these focused health blogs.

51. Malawi Clinics: Learn what clinics in Malawi are doing to provide clean water, health care and hope for many who are living well below poverty level.
52. OPS Blog: Here you can learn about health issues that are affecting South America.
53. All Africa: Find the latest stories on health care in Africa from this blog.
54. Body Politics: If you have an interest in community health in India, this blog is full of stories and news to keep you reading.
55. Global Bioethics Blog: This blog focuses on bioethics issues that are affecting Sub-Saharan Africa.
56. Design Research for Health: Mongolia: Learn how technology can affect places like Mongolia in this health and technology focused blog.
57. AMMREN: The African Media and Malaria Research Network maintains this blog and you can read about the progress they’re making with health clinics around the continent.
58. SAHRI: Read all about health issues from the South Asian Health Research Institute on this blog.
59. HEAL Africa: This program is focused on providing great health care for people in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
60. The Health Care Blog: Learn about health care in the US, what works and what doesn’t, from this broadly focused blog.
61. Stayin’ Alive: This blog addresses world health but focuses mainly on health care issues in the US, like lack of universal access and unequal care.
62. Global Bioethics: Focusing on Sub-Saharan Africa, this blog by a professor and researcher looks at bioethics and health care issues.

Projects and Organizations

These groups are dedicated to helping health care worldwide and you can read about their efforts in these blogs.

63. The INFO Project Blog: The INFO project wants to spread information about reproduction in developing countries to help keep mothers and children healthier and happier. It’s sponsored by Johns Hopkins and you can read all about their successes on this blog.
64. Global Forum for Health Research: Here you’ll find information on innovations and research that’s leading to better medical care in some of the poorest places on Earth.
65. Public Health Without Borders: Learn about issues of public health in the US and all over the world from this blog documenting this annual meeting.
66. The Breast Health Project: With breast cancer a major concern for many women the world over, this project aims to help women be aware of breast health issues and you can follow along with their mission in this blog.
67. Global Impact: Hubli Water and Health Project: The USC Stevens Institute for Innovation started this project to help those in this community get access to clean, healthy water.
68. Project HOPE: Short for Health Opportunities for People Everywhere, this organization records its recent projects and work saving lives around the world in their blog.
69. Partners In Health: Here you can find information about this group that’s helping to provide health care to those who need it most.
70. PATH Project: From family planning to infant nutrition, this group hopes to educate people in poverty stricken areas about health care issues.
71. Global Health Initiative: This site covers news on everything from AIDS orphans to gene therapy and explains the Wilson Center’s plan for action to help global health issues.
72. The ONE Blog: The ONE movement wants to help reduce global poverty and improve the living conditions of people around the world. Check out their blog for more information.
73. UNICEF Blog: One of the best known international charities, UNICEF works to help people get health care, food and resources and you can read about their work in this informative blog.
74. Sweet Resolution: Learn about diabetes on a global scale from this blog.
75. Global Health Delivery: This is the blog of GHD, an organization where health care provides connect with colleagues and share ideas on how to work with limited resources.
76. GlobeMed: This student-led non-profit helps students make a difference in places around the world in healthcare and development.

Technology

No discussion of health care is complete without touching upon technology, and these blogs bring the issue to the forefront.

77. Tech ‘n’ Health: Learn about how the Internet is playing an integral role in health care in the 21st century from this blog.
78. Little Devices That Could: This blog is an interesting read as it provides posts on gadgets that are helping countries develop around the world and build better health care.
79. CIMIT Blog: The Center for Integration of Medicine & Innovative Technology maintains this blog and addresses the intersection of these two fields at Massachusetts General Hospital.
80. Innocentive: While not strictly a blog, this site is a great place to learn about the technological and scientific innovations that health care providers around the world are looking to find. If you’re able to solve one of the problems you’ll not only get to help people but pick up a sweet paycheck as well.
81. On Informatics: Check out this blog to learn how the management of information is changing due to new technologies from this journal-based blog.
82. SciDevNet: Here you can read about science and technology and how it affects the developing world.
83. Technology, Health and Development: Learn how technological innovations in health care can have a major impact on people at a global level.

Medical Professionals

These doctors tell about their experiences working in health care in places that are in dire need of help, while also sharing health care news and issues.

84. No Child Must Wait: Here doctors can find out about trips to help children who are in need of a variety of surgical treatments that they simply can’t get at home. Many of the stories on the blog are inspiring and may even bring a tear to your eye.
85. Doctors Without Borders Blogs: This program gives doctors the opportunity to work in some of the most impoverished and medically needy areas in the world.
86. Dr. Buttery’s Public Health BLOG: Here you can find news and information about health care around the world from a Virginia Commonwealth University doctor.
87. Life and Lim Blog: This plastic surgeon has moved to Africa with his pediatrician wife and his children to help those in need of surgery and medical care get the help they need and deserve.

Environmental Health, Water and Food Safety

Health isn’t just about treating illnesses but preventing them as well. These blogs focus on protecting food, water and living conditions to promote better health.

88. Scientists and Engineers for Action: These science professionals want to use their expertise to improve health and environmental issues.
89. Food Safety and Environmental Health Blog: Learn how you can avoid food borne illnesses and stay safe at home and abroad from this blog.
90. Not In My Food: Consumer Reports maintains this blog that battles for better standards and safety in food.
91. BarfBlog: The title of this blog says it all. It covers food safety issues in order to help prevent food borne illnesses that can lead to not feeling so good and potentially more deadly consequences.
92. Exploring Food Safety: From safe bottled water to the effects of alcohol on arthritis, this blog explores a myriad of issues related to food safety.
93. Clean Water for the World: This blog is written by a couple who are dedicated to helping people all over gain access to clean water and providing them with the systems needed to do so.
94. Environmental Health News: Environmental Health Sciences maintains this blog that is a great place to find information about the chemicals and toxins that may be finding their way into your home.
95. Impact Analysis: This blog is a great read to better understand issues of environmental health and how they are affecting people not only in the US but around the world as well.

Miscellaneous

Check out these health care blogs that cover a range of issues.

96. Perspectives: Here you can learn about issues of media, culture and faith on a global scale.
97. Poverty News Blog: Check out this blog to learn about the struggles of some of the poorest people in the world, including the challenge of getting adequate health care.
98. WSJ Health Blog: Read about some general health issues that affect Americans as well as others around the globe in this Wall Street Journal blog.
99. TIME Global Health: While this blog is no longer updated regularly, it provides an invaluable resource on global health.
100. Global Voices: Read the opinions of numerous bloggers on this blog on issues like AIDS, hospitals and much more.

We take education for granted, and as much as we try not to this remains a fact of our Western centered lives.  It is assumed that most of us will continue on toward college, and maybe even after will attend a further education endeavor such as medical school, pharmacy school, or law school.  Developing nations, however, have had to rely on Western graduates who come in and help build up their programs and their industries, rather than individuals from their own hometowns.  This is slowly changing with the advent of universal help from international organizations who deliver funds toward higher education programs in regions such as Africa and East Asia.  Pharmacy schools have begun to be implemented in these areas as well, indicating a welcome shift toward a more modernized region. 

Pharmacy school is not the most vital of higher education, but is increasingly necessary for countries where diseases run rampant and where viruses can no longer be quelled by herbal remedies.  It is easier for native citizens to gain access to vaccines when pharmacists exist in a more regular locations than previously within their nation.  While these countries still have to rely on the help of Western nations to lend a hand in containing their mass outbreaks, the new prominence of pharmacy schools has indicated that these countries now have the means to fight their own battles in the health industry and do not have to rely on other nations as much as before.

Pharmacy school helps citizens not only contain diseases, but also informs them about the dangers that many viruses and diseases can bring to their communities.  So many citizens of these countries still remain unaware of the risks and dangers that come with having unprotected sex or drinking out of tepid water.  Pharmacists help the health industry by bringing new knowledge to developing nations; it is even more helpful that these individuals are from their own home country, rather than visitors from the “Western” world.  While doctors and nurses fight similar battles within the same areas, pharmacists are in charge of combating disease and taking the necessary precautions to ensure that disease does not spread as rapidly as it once did.  The increase of knowledge in these nations comes with the increase of higher educational programs, indicating that pharmacy schools has made a niche for itself within the education field. 

With a better general awareness of health, fitness, and nutrition, many people may feel that they are staying on track in doing what they need to in order to stay healthy. If you would like to see how you measure up, then take a few of these quizzes or tests to see what you know and learn how you can keep yourself healthy and fit. With categories including women’s health, men’s health, children’s and teen health, specific health issues, fitness, nutrition, and more, you will find plenty of quizzes to ensure you are on the right track with you and your family’s health. Remember, though, that these quizzes never substitute for a visit to your healthcare provider.

Women’s Health

From menopause to breast health to sexuality, these quizzes will test your knowledge of women’s health issues.

1. iVillage Women’s Health 411. From menopause to high cholesterol to allergies, find out what you know about women’s health issues here.
2. Women’s sexual health quiz: How does menopause affect sex?. Answer these 10 question to see what you know about this relationship.
3. Breast Health Quiz. See what you know about keeping your breasts healthy with this quiz.
4. Midlife Health Quiz. From mammograms to strong bones to hot flashes, find out how much you know about your midlife health.
5. Candida Quiz for Women. Take this assessment to determine if you may have candida, or a yeast infection.
6. Folic Acid Quiz. Women of childbearing age should take this quiz to test their knowledge of folic acid.
7. CDC – Test Your Knowledge About Women’s Health. Answer these True/False questions to see what you know about women’s health.
8. Why Is Breast Milk Best?. Take this quiz to test your knowledge of why so many experts recommend breast milk for babies.
9. Are You in Perimenopause?. Women can go into perimenopause as early as their 30’s. See if you are already there.
10. How Much Do You Know About Fertility?. If you would like to have children, then you should take this quiz to ensure you know what you should about fertility.

Men’s Health

These quizzes will help you learn what you know about men’s health.

11. CDC – Test Your Knowledge About Men’s Health. These 10 questions will provide a glimpse into what you know about men’s health.
12. Prostate symptoms self-assessment. If you’ve already been diagnosed with an enlarged prostate, take this assessment to find out if you should get further urinary tract screenings.
13. Sexual Health Inventory for Men. Find out if you have erectile dysfunction with this quiz.
14. Male Health Quiz. From sexuality to a healthy diet, see what you know about male health.
15. PSA Age/Race Calculator. This simple tool will help you find your risk for prostate cancer based on your age and race.
16. PBH Calculator. This tool will help determine if you should see a professional about the potential of an enlarged prostate.
17. Candida Quiz for Men. Find out if you may have candida, or a yeast infection, with this assessment tool.
18. Do You Know the Bald Truth About Hair Loss?. Are you losing your hair? Then take this quiz to find out how much you know about hair loss.
19. How Much Do You Know About Condoms?. Just because you may be using them doesn’t mean you know all about them. See how much you know here.

Kids’ Health

While some of these quizzes are just for kids to enjoy, some are also to see how much parents know about kid’s health.

20. Kids Health and Exercise Quiz. Test your knowledge on nutrition, exercise, and more with this multiple choice quiz.
21. Stress-O-Meter Quiz. Kids, answer these 8 questions to see if you may be under too much stress.
22. Milestones Checklist. Parents can make sure their child is developing within normal limits with this tool.
23. Kids’ Health Quiz: Understanding Your Child’s Eating and Activity Habits. Find out if your child might be at risk for obesity and poor health here.
24. Test Your Knowledge About Kids’ Health. Parents can take this quiz to see what they know about everything from dental issues to tobacco use in the home.
25. BMI Calculator for Child and Teen. See if your child or teen is within a healthy weight range based on age and gender.
26. Quiz: What’s Your Emergency IQ?. Find out how prepared you are in case an emergency happens involving your child.

Teen Health

From suicide to sexuality, these quizzes will seek to see what you know about the health issues especially important for teens.

27. Suicide Risk Assessment. Take this assessment to determine if your friend might be at risk for suicide.
28. FFYR Protect Yourself. Answer these 21 questions to see what you know about protecting your sexual health.
29. Choose Respect Dating Abuse Quiz. Click on the quiz at this site to find out what you know about dating abuse.
30. Teen Dating Violence and Healthy Relationships Quiz. Make sure you know what you need to about healthy relationships to prevent problems now and in your future.
31. The Powerful Girl Quiz. See how much you know about bone health and find out what you can do to strengthen your bones.
32. Quiz: Bone Health. Another quiz to test your bone health, this one focuses on what you do every day to grow strong bones.
33. Heads Up: Concussion in Youth Sports. Find out if you know the truth about concussions and sports. This quiz is for parents, athletes, and coaches.
34. Quiz: Eating Disorder Assessment. Take this quiz to determine if you may have an eating disorder.
35. Quiz: Are you ready to have sex?. If you have been struggling with the decision to have sex, this 45 question quiz will provide you guidance that may help your decision-making process.

General Health Quizzes

Find out how much you know about health, if you are doing the best to stay healthy, and how well you’ve stayed current with health news with all these quizzes.

36. The Health Quiz. From the New York Times, this interactive quiz will tell you what you know (or don’t know) about your health.
37. The Dr. Oz Health Quiz. Take this 16 question quiz that covers everything from aging to nutrition to body functions.
38. Take a Health Quiz. Select one of three quizzes here to find out what you know about your health.
39. Soap Box Soap Company Herb Quiz . Find out what you know about medicinal herbs in this quiz from a soap company that often uses these herbs in their products.
40. Quiz: Test Your Health IQ. Not only can you find out how much you know about your health with this quiz, you can also get suggestions for ways to protect your health.
41. Helia Health Challenge Quiz. Facebook users can add this app, take the quiz, and share with friends.
42. Hot Topics Health Quiz. See how much you know about current health topics in the news.
43. Health Savvy Quiz. From food storage to vaccines, learn how savvy you are when it comes to health issues.
44. Environmental Health Quiz. Find out what you know about the relationship of environmental factors to your health.
45. General Health Quiz. From exercise to lifestyle change to eating habits, see what you know with this quiz.
46. How’s your memory? Take our health quiz. See what you remember about health topics from the news a few years ago.
47. Are you leading a healthy lifestyle?. Answer these questions that range from sleep habits to drinking to exercise and find out how healthy your lifestyle is.

Quizzes about Specific Health Issues

From aging to heart health to allergies, find out how much you know about these health issues.

48. Digestive Health Quiz. Answer these 9 questions and see what you know about your digestive health.
49. Anti-aging quiz: Secrets to a longer, healthier life. This quiz tests your knowledge on health and aging. See how much you know.
50. Continence Calculator. This tool will help you determine what type of incontinence problems you may be experiencing.
51. Heart quiz: Put your heart smarts to the test. Help prevent heart disease by ensuring you know what you need to about heart health.
52. Heart Health Quiz. Find out how much you know about the heart and ways to keep it healthy.
53. Pain quiz: Do you believe the myths?. Find out how much you know about pain with this quiz.
54. Dr. Manny’s Health Quiz: Test Your Knowledge about Migraines. This simple quiz will let you know what you know about these debilitating headaches.
55. Home Allergy Quiz. Do you know how to allergy-proof your home? Take this quiz to find out.
56. Stroke Risk Quiz. This short quiz will let you know if you may be at risk for a stroke.

Nutrition

Eating healthy and making the right choices when it comes to portion size and types of food will keep you in good health. Find out with these quizzes if you are making the right choices.

57. Which Fast Food Option is Lower in Calories?. You may be surprised by the results of this quiz that asks you to compare between popular fast foods to determine which has fewer calories.
58. Nutritional Health Quiz. Find out if your nutritional habits are putting your health at risk.
59. Check the Quality of Your Multiple. Get out your multiple vitamin and check the ingredients against this quiz to see what quality vitamin you take.
60. Analyze My Plate. This interactive tool allows you to drag your food on a plate to see how healthy and nutritional it is. Test your knowledge by trying to create healthy plates.
61. How Healthy Is Your Kid’s Diet?. Not only will this quiz help you analyze your child’s nutrition, but most of this information pertains to adults as well–so check your own nutrition while you’re at it.
62. Quiz: Can You Recognize the Hidden Fats?. This quiz measures what you know about the fat content in common foods, including some name brands.
63. Quiz: How Much do You Know about Portion Size?. Find out if you are eating too much at your meal time with this quiz.
64. Nutrition Quiz. Take this short quiz to see how much you know about the nutritional value of some common foods.

Fitness

Are you doing your best to stay physically fit? Take these quizzes to find out.

65. Commit to Get Fit. How much do you know about fitness and nutrition? Find out with these 6 questions.
66. Quiz: Fitness fact or fiction. Learn how much you know about exercise and fitness with this quiz from MayoClinic.com.
67. Fitness quiz: Test your fitness awareness. Another fitness quiz from MayoClinic.com, this one finds out how aware you are about fitness throughout your life.
68. Healthy Weight: Assessing Your Weight: Adult BMI Calculator. Determine if you are at a healthy weight in proportion to your height.
69. Health Trends Quiz. From yoga to Pilates to kick boxing, see what you know about these current fitness trends.
70. Test Your Fitness. Take this quiz to determine how fit you really are.
71. Quiz: Do You Know How to Walk Your Way to Fitness?. Find out how much you know about walking and your fitness.
72. Quiz: What’s Your Fitness IQ?. See what you know about fitness with this short quiz.

Mental Health Quizzes and Assessments

Make sure you are taking good care of your mental health too, but taking these quizzes to determine if you need help.

73. Alcohol-use quiz: Drinking too much carries high costs. See how much you know about the devastating effects of too much alcohol.
74. Alcohol-use self-assessment: Rate your drinking habits. This assessment will help you determine if you should seek help for a drinking problem.
75. RealAge Stress and Anxiety Health Assessment. Learn if your anxiety and stress levels require intervention or if you can manage on your own.
76. Depression self-assessment. Find out if your symptoms may indicate that you are suffering from depression with this self-assessment tool.
77. Anxiety Disorder Quiz. Take this short quiz to see how much you know about anxiety and anxiety disorders.
78. Stress assessment. Are you under too much stress? Use this assessment to determine if you are putting yourself at risk.

Dental Health

Good dental health can prevent other health issues. Find out how you are doing with your dental hygiene with these quizzes.

84. What’s Your Dental Health IQ?. From plaque to brushing, find out what you know about dental health.
85. Dental Health and Hygiene Quiz. Parents can select their expertise level and find out how much they know about keeping their children’s teeth clean and healthy.
86. Oral Health Quiz. From low birth-weight babies to heart attack and stroke, learn what you know about the connection between oral health and other health issues.
87. Oral Health Quiz. This quiz measures how much you know about the relationship of dental health to your diabetes.
88. How good are your pearly whites?. Take this quiz to see how your dental health rates.

Health Assessments

These assessments can tell you whether or not you may be at risk for developing one of these health issues.

89. Arthritis – Assess Your Risk. Answer these 5 questions to determine if you may be at risk for arthritis.
90. Arthritis – Assess Your Symptoms. Similar to the above quiz, this one has only 7 questions to determine if your symptoms may be due to arthritis.
91. Alzheimer’s quiz: Diagnostic clues. Use this quiz to help you decide if you should speak to your health care provider about the possibility of Alzheimer’s.
92. Diarrhea quiz: Do you know when it’s serious?. Find out if it’s time to call the doctor with this easy quiz.
93. Getting Around: A Mobility Quiz. Assess your mobility with this quiz and see if you might need some help.
94. Asthma control test. Answer these questions to see if you are successfully controlling your asthma or if you may need to see your doctor.
95. Diabetes risk self-assessment. Should you see your doctor for a diabetes screening? Take this assessment to find out.
96. Migraine self-assessment. If you feel migraines are taking over your life, use this tool to determine if you should see your doctor.

Diagnostic Tests

These tests can be taken at home and either sent back to the lab or read at home. While they allow much more privacy than going to a lab, remember to consult a physician after you test.

97. HIV. The Home Access HIV kit allows you to test privately in your home for HIV and is approved by the FDA.
98. Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Find out how you can test at home to determine if you have this sleep disorder from this article from Medical News Today.
99. Genetics. Plenty of genetic testing companies are willing to provide tests you can do at home. Make sure you can rely on the results from the test you take by following the advice of professionals.
100. Diabetes. It’s estimated that over 6 million people are unaware they have diabetes. Taking a test at home to determine if you have diabetes is a smart move if you have any symptoms or may be at risk.

Video games are not just for kids anymore. With all the news stories touting the benefits of video games for maintaining both mental and physical fitness, the word has gotten out that they are also fun. Whether you would like to try games especially for sharpening mental focus, improving eye-hand coordination, or keeping your body in motion, you will find fun and interesting games that may be just what the doctor ordered.

Brain Games

Medical experts know that games can keep your brain from atrophying. Try some of these video games to keep your synapses firing.

1. Brain Age. Available on Nintendo DS, this game is excellent for sharpening the brain in seniors, according to a study done by a competing software company.
2. Sharp Brains Brain Teasers and Games. These games are especially meant to help exercise and sharpen your mind. If you work your way through these 50, there is a link for even more.
3. Freedom Years Games. These games will help sharpen your brain and include jigsaw puzzles, memory game, Sudoku, and more.
4. Crossword puzzles. While not technically a video game, working crossword puzzles online is a sure-fire way to sharpen your mental skills.
5. Games for the Brain. With popular brain games like Mastermind, chess, and Sudoku, you are sure to find plenty of games to keep you entertained while working your brain.
6. Brain Bashers. With 5 new games added each week, you are sure to stay stocked up with lots of video game fun to sharpen your mental acuity here.
7. Puzzability Sampler. The puzzles here include both interactive and non-interactive versions of word games like Hangman, Acrostic, and Slider.
8. Thinks.com Jigsaw Puzzles. Work these jigsaw puzzles online and you won’t ever have to worry about finding a place to spread out the pieces in your home–plus it’s a great workout for your mind.
9. Truantduck.com Chinese Checkers. Play this classic game against the droid and practice your strategy skills. Be sure to take the tutorial under help if you need a refresher or want to practice moving the stones on the computer before playing.
10. Simon Says. Practice your memory skills by playing Simon Says online. It’s amazingly similar to the real thing.

Wii Games

Wii fitness games are quickly becoming a favorite among seniors as they can participate in sports they used to enjoy but with much less impact to their bodies.

11. Wii Golf. For seniors who may have had to quit playing the real thing like this man, Wii Golf is an excellent way to still enjoy the game.
12. Wii Bowling. Virtual bowling tournaments have been gaining popularity in senior centers around the country and seems to be the most popular of the Wii games for the senior set.
13. Tiger Woods’ PGA Tour 09. The latest version of this popular golf game will provide plenty of fun for golfers of any age and any ability.
14. Link’s Crossbow Training. Buy the Wii Zapper and you get Link’s Crossbow Training, which is a popular shooting game among the senior set as well as fans of The Legend of Zelda.
15. Mario Kart Wii. This popular game isn’t just for kids anymore. Race go-karts or motorbikes around one of 16 tracks or participate in plenty of diversions like slowing down your opponent or playing in a battle arena.
16. Tennis. Except for a tired arm, seniors are discovering that they can play tennis again without straining their bodies. The excitement of the game is evident with seniors flocking to this game.
17. Boxing. Surprisingly, boxing is also a big hit among the senior crowd. Especially for those who enjoyed boxing in their younger days, seniors with mobility issues are now rediscovering their love of the sport as well as getting physical benefits as well.
18. The Price is Right. Fans of The Price is Right will enjoy many favorites from the show including a chance to spin the Big Wheel. Play on your own or with up to 4 people.
19. Wii Play. With games like table tennis, billiards, and shooting range, seniors can participate in plenty of fun activities.
20. Wii Hooked!. For fishing fans with a Wii, this game is the way to go. Not only can you play on your own to practice your skills, you can also switch to tournament mode and have friends compete to see who is the best angler.

Let’s Get Physical

These video games require a little more participation than the usual video game and will help keep your body fit.

21. Dance Dance Revolution. The DDR craze is popular with all ages. Jump on your dance mat and get moving to help keep your body strong and active.
22. Dancetown. A toned-down DDR, Dancetown includes songs more appropriate for an older crowd. Beat your own dancing score or try competing against friends.
23. Dancing with the Stars. Based on the TV show, but much more popular, this video game that’s available with a dance pad on Playstation 2 or on Wii.
24. Winter Sports 2008. Get in the action with 9 different sports and 15 disciplines that will have you moving your body and competing to win–but without the cold.
25. XaviX Jackie Chan J-Mat Fitness. This workout can be fun and keep you physically fit as this article and this both demonstrate. Fight ninjas, run down, the street, and do it all in the safety of your own home.

Hand-Eye Coordination

Experts know that age has an effect on hand-eye coordination, but these games will help keep you at the top of your game–and may even help keep your driving safe.

26. Escapa. This is one tough game! Click and hold the red square and avoid getting hit by the blue squares or hitting a wall.
27. InSight. This game is being offered by Allstate to its customers aged 50 to 75 in Pennsylvania to help reduce driving accidents by building the brain as well as hand-eye the visual processing necessary for safe driving.
28. Tetris. This game will sharpen both hand-eye coordination and quick, logical thinking. Play this one with the arrow keys on your keyboard.
29. Super Money Ball. Try one of these mini games from Sega to improve your eye-hand coordination. Keeping that money on the floor can be tricky.
30. Hit the Dot. From Psychology Games, this game challenges you to click on each of the dots as they appear to see how many you can get in 30 seconds.
31. The Blue Button Game. Click on the fast-moving blue button to keep playing, but if you click on a red or orange one, the game ends.
32. Breakout. This classic game requires you to keep the ball in play until it breaks all the blocks at the top. Be sure to use the "Slow down" button if you aren’t already a Breakout professional.

Flying and Driving

Whether you like racing cars or flying planes, these games will provide fun while keeping your skills sharp.

33. Gran Turismo. This popular driving game has been around for a while and doesn’t look like it’s going to go away soon. For a realistic driving experience, give this game a try.
34. Nascar 09. Play this driving game on your Xbox 360 and you can get racing tips from Jeff Gordon to enhance your racing abilities.
35. 5 Miles 2 Go Nascar. Race the last five miles and try to move from second to first place with this free online game.
36. Game Gecko Racing Games. Play a number of racing games online at this site. If you aren’t sure which to choose, they have some organized by "Most Played" and "Newest."
37. Blazing Angels: Squadrons of WWII. This flying game has you flying and fighting in some of the famous WWII battles. Play on your Xbox 360, Playstation, or Wii.
38. Dogfight 2. Using your arrow and space bar keys, participate in dogfights with this flying game.
39. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004. This flight simulator for your PC has been around for years and has won several awards. Not technically a video game, it does substitute nicely.

Online and Community Games

These online games serve many purposes with benefits including mental acuity and staying connected with others. Play these fun games and keep yourself healthy at the same time.

40. Scrabble. Play Scrabble online at The Pixie Pit with friends and family, no matter where they live. Play with two to four players and receive email notifications when it’s your turn to play.
41. Solitaire. This game is easy to come by as it is usually part of most computer packages. If you don’t already have this game, try one of the online versions, which also usually offers several different types of Solitaire.
42. Guild Wars. Stay connected with others as well as enjoy fantasy role-playing with this game enjoyed by seniors as well as younger players.
43. Diner Dash. This popular online game has you serving a restaurant full of people. Make sure everyone gets seated, orders, and gets their food without getting angry–it’s no easy task.
44. Pogo.com. Not only are the games here more gentle than some of the popular fighting and war games, but apparently they are popular with the over 40 crowd.
45. AARP.org Games. These games include strategy games such as chess, puzzles, card games, and multiplayer games.
46. Grandparent Games. This site is designed to allow grandparents to connect with their grandchildren through interactive games. The service is free for 7 days, but you will need to pay a small fee to continue.
47. Games ~ Grandma Faith’s Website. These family-friendly games are fun and just right for both the younger and older set.
48. MSN Games. MSN believes in making their games fun and easy to play. Popular games at this site include Mozaki Blocks, Mah Jong Tiles, and Bespelled.
49. Yahoo! Games. Chess, dominos, and pool rule at this popular site among both the older and younger players.
50. Pop Cap. Play several popular games online or download them for a fee to get even more features. Games here include Bejeweled, Bookworm, and Mah Jong.