Health Highlights: April 25, 2008

In a 95-0 vote, the U.S. Senate passed a bill Thursday to protect the jobs and health insurance of people who learn through genetic testing that they may be susceptible to serious diseases.

The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act, which now goes back the House of Representatives, forbids employers from using genetic information in the hiring, firing or promotion of workers and bars health insurance companies from using genetic information to set premiums or determine eligibility, theAssociated Pressreported.

"For the first time we act to prevent discrimination before it has taken firm hold and that's why this legislation is unique and groundbreaking," said Sen. Olympia Snowe (R-Maine), one of the sponsors of the bill.

She noted there are more than 1,100 genetic tests currently available but they're "absolutely useless" if people don't use them or take part in clinical trials because they're worried about discrimination.

The bill, which could be approved by the House early next week, is supported by the White House, theAPreported.

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Electric Simmer Wax Pots Pose Fire and Shock Hazard

About 830,00 electric simmer wax pots distributed by Waxcessories of Dracut, Mass., have been recalled because they have wire connections that can come loose and pose a fire and electric shock hazard.

So far, there have been 161 reports of problems with the wire connections, but no reports of injuries or damage, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The Chinese-made simmer pots were sold in a variety of styles and were designed to melt scented wax in a ceramic cup, which sits on a ceramic base that contains a 40-watt bulb, socket and electric cord. The recall includes all designs of the electric simmer pots and all item numbers.

The pots were sold at gift and novelty shops across the United States from April 2002 through April 2008 for between $17 and $25.

Consumers should stop using the simmer pots and contact Waxcessories for instructions on how to receive a free replacement product. Contact the company at 1-800-899-5884.