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New diagnostic tools pin-point cardiovascular issues

MIAMI – New diagnostic cardiovascular tools are helping specialists pinpoint blockages that might not show up on standard tests.

AI powered software called “HeartFlow” interprets CT scans of the blood vessels of the heart, generating 3-D images.

“That will now give us a functional assessment, just based on that same CT it’s a processing tool that we can see the contrast flow through the vessel and then based on that we can predict which vessel is going to cause a problem and possibly lead to angina or future risk of heart attacks,” said Dr. Carlos Alfonso, an interventional cardiologist with UHealth.

He said another new tool called “CoroFlow” can also help accurately assess impairment in both the visible as well as invisible coronary arteries.

ONLINE SALE OF OTC BIRTH CONTROL PILLS AVAILABLE

The first over-the-counter birth control pill approved in the U.S. is now on sale online.

O-pill can be bought directly from its own website at www.opill.com and Amazon.

Some major retail pharmacies such as CVS and Walgreens have said they will offer O-Pill once they receive their shipments.

Manufacturer Perrigo said when taken as directed, the product is 98 percent effective at preventing pregnancy.

ASBESTOS BAN EXPANDS

The environmental protection agency is banning the last form of asbestos used in the United States.

Asbestos has long been linked to cancer.

The new rule outlaws chrysotile asbestos which is the only kind of asbestos currently being used or imported to the United States.

It is used in car parts like after-market automotive brakes and linings and other vehicle friction products.


About the Authors
Kristi Krueger headshot

Kristi Krueger has built a solid reputation as an award-winning medical reporter and effervescent anchor. She joined Local 10 in August 1993. After many years co-anchoring the 6 p.m. and 11 p.m., Kristi now co-anchors the noon newscasts, giving her more time in the evening with her family.

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