From Michigan - In a study evaluating real world scenarios, only 31% of patients who have a stroke make it to an ER within 3 hours - the window in which TPA can be given to reduce the effects of a stroke. Only 44% made it within 6 hours.

From Corpus Christi - In an attempt to improve stroke care, researchers evaluated the effects of a stroke symptom recognition and early intervention program on a group of middle schoolers. When tested 2 years later, those randomized to a 4 hour program emphasizing stroke symptoms and when to call 911 were more likely to take action.

From Boston - A study of over 2,000 adolescents shows that nearly 15% who receive routine primary medical care screen positive for substance abuse. Over 40% drank alcohol or used drugs and nearly a quarter reported driving under the influence at some point during their lifetimes.

And finally from Houston - A cancer survivor may have developed the first prototype of a machine that treats cancer in a painless fashion. While the machine's inventor, John Kanzius, is not a physician, the machine is being taken seriously by many leading cancer specialists. The technology uses nanotubes that are heated by radio waves to kill cancer cells and has been shown to kill liver cancer cells in rabbits.