It's one of the greatest breakthroughs in scientific history, but genetic engineering has also brought disturbing new questions. Should we push genetic research to its absolute limit, exploiting every discovery? What are the consequences of intervening in nature's processes at their most fundamental level? Outlining the potential benefits of genetic engineering, such as the treatment or cure of hereditary diseases and the creation of better, more...

Medicine is gaining ground against chronic pain, thanks to determined doctors-and patients. This program explores what causes pain and looks at treatments involving medication, physical therapy, and alternative methods. Presenting interviews with physicians who have dedicated their careers to fighting chronic pain-including UC San Diego doctors Mark Wallace and Armelia Sani-the program also features commentary from patients who cope with it every...

More and more Americans are looking for opportunities to exert some measure of control over where and how they die. In this program, veteran PBS journalist Bill Moyers unravels the complexities underlying the many choices at the end of life, including the bitter debate over physician-assisted suicide. Three patients, their families, and their doctors discuss some of the hardest decisions, including how to pay for care, what constitutes humane treatment,...

People who live with chronic pain often face a no-win situation. They usually rely on medications known as NSAIDs-or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs-which, unfortunately, can damage their stomachs and may even threaten their lives. This program details new strategies for helping patients with chronic pain, enabling them to fight it without giving up NSAIDs. Interviews with University of Michigan gastroenterologist James Scheiman and rheumatologist...

The use of hypnosis in medicine has a long history. In the early days of anesthesia, surgeons often used the trance-inducing technique as a fail-safe measure-and today the concept is being revisited. This program presents a scientific investigation into the idea that hypnosis can reduce or even replace the use of anesthesia. Exploring the merits of making the procedure available to more patients-especially those too weak for, or unsuited to, conventional...

In terms of lost and reduced productivity, migraines cost U.S. employers more than $10 billion each year. How can these debilitating headaches be prevented? Using case studies, this program discusses the biomechanics of migraine, including postmonitory and postdromal phases; diagnosis of migraine; and treatment of migraine with beta-blockers and neuromodulators as well as with biofeedback and dietary supplements such as coenzyme Q-10 and vitamin B-10....

It can turn a hard-driving, energetic person into a walking zombie-exhausted, confused, and unable to work. This program sheds light on the mysterious illness known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, which has no known cause or cure. Case studies feature a former congressional worker who eventually found it impossible to perform her duties on Capitol Hill, and a clinical psychologist whose personal experience with CFS has helped others suffering from this...

It bothers-and sometimes debilitates-an estimated 80 percent of Americans at some time during their adult lives. And low back pain shows no sign of going away, despite current research into its causes and potential cures. This program examines the ongoing health issue through case studies, interviews with medical experts, and animated graphics showing spinal anatomy, movement, and conditions. Highlighting the major factors that contribute to low back...