Health Highlights: June 20, 2008

The greatest reduction in cholesterol levels was seen in pigs fed a two percent blueberry diet. In people, that would be equivalent to about two one-cup servings per day.

The study appears in theBritish Journal of Nutrition.

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U.S. Motorcycle Deaths More Than Doubled Since 1997

Between 1997 and 2006, motorcycle deaths in the United States increased from 2,110 to 4,810, a Governors Highway Safety Association study found.

From 2005 to 2006, motorcycle deaths increased in 27 states and Puerto Rico. The study also said that 15 states accounted for 67 percent of all U.S. motorcycle deaths in 2006 and that in 2004, 2005, and 2006, nearly one-third of all fatalities occurred in California, Texas and Florida,United Press Internationalreported.

Despite clear evidence that proper helmet use saves lives, there is a patchwork of helmet laws in the country, poor enforcement, and a lack of helmet promotion, the study found. In states with partial or no helmet laws, most riders who died weren't wearing helmets.

In 2006, 25 percent of riders killed in motorcycle crashes didn't have a valid license, compared with 13 percent of drivers of passenger vehicles,UPIreported.

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Some Artificial Turf Fields Should Be Tested For Lead: CDC

Some artificial turf athletic fields should be tested for the lead, says a health advisory posted on the Web site of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The agency said any field containing worn or faded turf blades that are made of nylon or nylon-blend fibers should be tested, as well as nylon fields with visible dust, theAssociated Pressreported.