All articles filed in December 2014

  Synopsis: More than 400,000 Americans are on kidney dialysis, a number that may grow to 2 million by 2030 due to obesity-related diseases. Experts discuss the advantages and shortfalls of dialysis and new transplant waiting list rules that will give the best organs to recipients who will be able to use them the longest.…

  Synopsis: People who undergo cancer treatment are not generally offered the same kind of physical rehabilitation given to others who suffer injuries and illnesses. A leader in the new field of cancer rehabilitation explains how it could improve outcomes and quality of life after cancer. Host: Nancy Benson. Guest: Dr. Julie Silver, Assistant Professor…

  Synopsis: Many people feel that gifted children don’t need any help because they’re so talented. But many gifted kids are so bored in school they become disruptive and do poorly, so they’re not identified and their need for a challenge isn’t met. Some gifted children also have disabilities, such as learning disabilities, that are…

  Synopsis: Some people simply have no rhythm. A small percentage may be “beat deaf,” the rhythmic equivalent of tone deafness, and have a biological deficit in their body’s timing mechanism. Experts discuss the problem and other body timekeeping clocks that may be affected. Host: Nancy Benson. Guests: Mathieu Dion, Montreal TV reporter who suffers from…

  Synopsis: As “Obamacare” health insurance exchanges enter their second year, some insured people are finding that getting access to care is extremely difficult due to meager provider networks and low doctors’ payments. Many insured are also being surprised by high deductibles and co-payments. Experts discuss the extent of the problems and ways they might…

  Synopsis: Compulsive overshoppers often are seeking to compensate for some unfilled internal need. An expert discusses these reasons and how people can learn to overcome compulsive shopping. Host: Nancy Benson. Guest: Dr. April Lane Benson, psychologist, founder of StoppingOvershopping.com and author of  To Buy Or Not To Buy. Links for more information: http://www.stoppingovershopping.com

Synopsis: Two years ago, when mentally ill 20-year old Adam Lanza killed 20 grade school children and six staff members at Sandy Hook Elementary School, some in the public blamed Lanza’s mother (also a victim) for not getting him treatment. A writer with a mentally ill son explains the many reasons why it’s not as…

  Synopsis: Increased use of computer screens and smartphones has brought an epidemic of eye complaints. Experts discuss why digital devices produce extra eyestrain and how people can avoid it. Host: Nancy Benson. Guests: Dr. Michael Rosenblatt, optometrist, Washington DC. Jakob Nielsen, Principal, Meilsen Norman Group user experience research firm. Links for or more information:…