Health

A study last year suggested that regular marijuana smoking during the teen years can lead to a long-term drop in IQ. Now a new analysis is challenging that conclusion. Full story...

In a collaborative to better serve the communities in its seven-county region, New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) has expanded its AirLink program with the addition of a second helicopter. By stationing the EC-135 T2 helicopters in Onslow and Columbus Counties, providers will be able to cut response times and deliver critical care and air ambulance services to patients following a traumatic illness or injury. Full story...

The Associated Press has learned that suicides in the US military surged to a record 349 last year. That far exceeds the 295 American combat deaths in Afghanistan in 2012 and compares with 301 military suicides in 2011. Full story...

The best diet plan for overall health may not cost a thing. A new ranking of diets by U.S. News & World Report gives top honors for best overall diet to the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet. Full story...

Health officials say flu is more widespread across the nation, but the number of hard-hit states has declined. Flu season started early this winter, and includes a strain that tends to make people sicker. Full story...

It was a busy first meeting for new Town Manager Tim Owens. Wrightsville Beach Alderman discussed school security, a new restaurant and an Eagle Scout's plan to help the community. Full story...

A panel says North Carolina legislators and Gov. Pat McCrory should look at ways to curb prescription drug abuse so deaths among youths can be prevented. Full story...

The flu has hit hard and early, and the rush is on to try to prevent the spread of the virus. New Hanover County Health Department officials remind residents it is not too late to become vaccinated. Full story...

For the millions of patients across the nation who rely on Vicodin for relief from severe pain, the new rules could sharply restrict the number of pills they can get and drastically increase the number of doctor visits necessary to get them. Many patients who can now get a six-month supply would need to visit their doctors every 30 days to renew a prescription. Full story...

The Food and Drug Administration is requiring makers of Ambien and similar sleeping pills to lower the dosage of their drugs, based on studies suggesting patients face a higher risk of injury due to morning drowsiness. Full story...

Exercise on a dime! A personal trainer shows Good Morning Carolina anchor Ashley Jacobs how to get a full gym workout using items you already have at home Full story...

The Food and Drug Administration is proposing the most sweeping food safety rules in decades, requiring farmers and food companies to be more vigilant in the wake of deadly outbreaks in peanuts, cantaloupe and leafy greens. Full story...

As any mother can tell you, giving birth can be a blur. But every so often a picture brings it into crystal-clear focus and one image is getting a lot of attention online. Full story...

Charles Jase Knowles was born at 5:37 a.m. at New Hanover Regional Medical Center, making him the first bundle of joy born at the hospital in 2013. Full story...

It's that time of year to get your flu shot. The experts say this year, the flu is already peaking. Full story...