Health Highlights: June 16, 2007

Mar. 23 -- Here are some of the latest health and medical news developments,compiled by editors of HealthDay:

FDA Approves Drug for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Friday approved the drug Letairis (ambrisentan) for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension, a rare but life-threatening condition marked by continuous high blood pressure within the arteries of the lungs.

"Letairis represents a valuable addition to the treatment alternatives for this orphan disease," said Dr. John Jenkins, director of FDA's Office of New Drugs. "Letairis is similar to an existing drug, but offers the potential for fewer drug interactions."

In pulmonary arterial hypertension, the small arteries in the lungs become narrowed or blocked, so the heart must work harder to pump blood through them. Eventually, the overworked heart muscle may become weak and lose its ability to pump enough blood through the lungs. Symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, dizzy spells and fainting.

About 100,000 people in the United States have pulmonary arterial hypertension, the FDA said.

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Heart Group Suggests a Lifesaving Father's Day Gift

Looking for a Father's Day gift for Sunday? The Association for Eradication of Heart Attack (AEHA) is suggesting that families give dads a heart attack prevention test. The association is also asking hospitals, clinics and physicians to offer Father's Day specials with discounted rates.

"One of the most meaningful Father's Day gifts would be a heart attack preventive screening test," said Dr. Morteza Naghavi, founder of the AEHA and chairman of its SHAPE (Screening for Heart Attack Prevention and Education) Task Force. "This is an excellent way to show Dad that you love him and want him to enjoy a long and healthy life."

The SHAPE guideline calls for men from 45 to 75 years old and women 55 to 75 years old to undergo screening to assess coronary plaque or carotid wall thickness. It also recommends the coronary calcium scan (Heart Scan) or carotid scan (Carotid IMT) -- two tests that have proven to be strong predictors of those who are vulnerable to a heart attack or stroke.