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BMJ 1999; 318 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.318.7184.626i (Published 06 March 1999) Cite this as: BMJ 1999;318:626

Bias in selection for cardiac catheterisation: American women and black people may be less likely to be referred for cardiac catheterisation than men and white people, according to a new study (New England Journal of Medicine 1999;340:618-626). Black women were significantly less likely to be referred for catheterisation than white men. The study used computerised survey instruments involving 720 primary care doctors who were asked to watch interviews with actors trained to portray patients with heart disease. The doctors were then asked to make recommendations about the preferred treatment of the patient.

Exercise can stimulate brain cells: Two studies in mice have shown that neuronal growth and the formation of new neurones continues in the brains of adults and that exercise may stimulate the development of new neurones and enhance learning (Nature Neuroscience 1999;2:203-5, 260-5, 266-70). Researchers at the Salk Institute in La Jolla, California, found that mice that were exercised on a running wheel had double the number of surviving hippocampal neurones than their sedentary counterparts. Exercise increased cell proliferation and regeneration in the hippocampus, which is involved in learning and memory. The scientists suggested that exercise and environmental complexity are trophic because they induce the formation of spatial memory.

Herbal supplements may reduce fertility: Several popular herbal supplements may impair fertility, according to a new study (Fertility and Sterility 1999; 71:517-22). Researchers at Loma Linda University School of Medicine in California, exposed hamster ova to Echinacea purpura, Gingko biloba, St John's wort, and saw palmetto extracts. The supplements are widely used to ward off colds, enhance memory, and combat depression and prostatism, respectively. With the exception of saw palmetto, all the herbs prevented sperm from penetrating the ova. Moreover, Gingko biloba and St John's wort reduced sperm viability by inducing mutations in the sperm's DNA. The mechanism of action and the components that promote sterility have yet to be determined, and further studies are planned.

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