My First Coast Health Watch

Organic industry clout grows with consumer demand

The organic industry is gaining clout on Capitol Hill, prompted by rising consumer demand and its entry into traditional farm states. 

Why you don't want to drink the pool water

(USA TODAY) -- Here's a good reason never to swallow water from a swimming pool: A new study found telltale signs of feces in more than half of pools sampled in Atlanta last summer.

The potential link between language & Alzheimer's Disease

Around 5.2 million Americans are currently suffering from Alzheimer's disease and by 2050, the number of people age 65 and older with Alzheimer's is projected to nearly triple to around 13.8 million.

Report questions reducing salt intake too dramatically

Americans need to lower their excessive salt intake for their health's sake, but it may be harmful to cut back too far, says a new report out today.

BRCA mutation the cause for cancer concern

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Actress Angelina Jolie's announcement that she had both breasts removed in February to reduce her risk of getting cancer generated a lot of discussion Tuesday about breast cancer and genetic testing.

5 red flags you should get tested for breast cancer gene

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- With all the news about Angelina Jolie's double mastectomy, women might be wondering, "Should I get tested, too?"

Angelina Jolie says she had double mastectomy

Angelina Jolie says she's had a preventive double mastectomy after learning she carried a gene that makes it extremely likely she'll get breast cancer. 

Deaths from West Nile virus hit record last year

U.S. health officials say last year was the worst ever for West Nile virus deaths.

New sunscreen labels: How to read the fine print

At first glance, the sunscreen bottles, tubes and canisters on store shelves this spring may not look much different from what consumers have seen in the past.

Might want to sprinkle turmeric on your food

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- A Jacksonville mom and grandma swears by turmeric after her cancer doctor suggested she try it to fight fatigue and pain from breast cancer surgery.

Florida Hospital to open Central Florida's first milk depot

ORLANDO, Fla. (WESH) - Florida Hospital will bring a breast milk bank to the Central Florida region.

Treatment offers new way to save fertility

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (USA TODAY) -- Younger women diagnosed with cancer take risks in the hope of becoming a mother.

Breast cancer walk steps off in Chicago

Runners in Chicago participated in the annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure.

Marching to find a cure for Cystic Fibrosis

Friends and family of Melissa Boyett marched in her honor to find a cure for Cystic Fibrosis.

Join American Cancer Society's Prevention Study

Research: More Idaho women beating breast cancer

(NBC NEWS - KTVB) -- Having breast cancer is no longer a death sentence. Women are now surviving it.

Study: Breast Implants hinder cancer detection, increase death risk

 According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, breast implants do not cause a problem for mothers hoping to breastfeed their children.

Researchers suggest aspirin slows breast cancer

We're learning more about the possible health benefits of a drug that's likely in your medicine cabinet. 

Get movin' to lower your risk of breast cancer

Studies have shown that physical activity can reduce a woman's risk of breast cancer. 

Woman to meet family who gave her gift of life

A very special day Saturday for a young lady on the First Coast, who is meeting a family who forever changed her life.

Slow cookers could pose potential health hazard

ATLANTA (WXIA) -- 11Alive's Center for Investigative Action wants to warn you about a potential hazard in your kitchen. It has taken some of our viewers by surprise and has even caused some injuries.

Prayers for pastor's son who had fingers severed

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Prayers are coming in from all around the country, even New Zealand and South Africa for a local pastor and his son, Ben.

Carbon dioxide levels soar to milestone level

(USA TODAY) -- The average level of carbon dioxide over the past five days is 400.03 parts per million.

Patient: 'I never expected it to cost this much'

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- A health scare and a month-long hospital visit have left Marc Bchiri with a number of scars along his right side.

Identical scar connects Jacksonville mother and daughter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Mother's Day is approaching and some people say they have their mom's eyes, or smile. But one First Coast family said they share something much deeper.