BOSTON -- On the HealthBeat Wrap, NewsCenter 5's Liz Brunner offered news on obesity, prescription drug use in the United States and red meat's possible connection to arthritis.

Obesity And Tests

Obesity not only causes health problems, it can make it harder for doctors to diagnose those problems, according to a new study.

The Massachusetts General Hospital study found that the number of X-rays, CT scans, and other diagnostic tests compromised by a patients' large size doubled in the past 15 years.

The most difficult tests to read on obese patients: abdominal ultrasounds, CT scans and chest X-rays.

Obesity and Diagnostic Tests

Red Meat

People who make red meat a regular part of their diet may double their risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis, a new study says.

A small British study found those who average just two ounces of red meat per day have twice the risk as those who ate less or none at all.

Prescription Drug Use

Americans are taking more medication than ever before, according to new government report.

More than 40 percent of the population is taking at least one prescription drug and one person in every six takes three or more.

Researchers say that's in part because of more drugs available to treat more conditions, especially medications to lower cholesterol, treat depression and reduce inflammation.

Some experts say the increase is at least in part due to overwhelming amounts of direct to consumer advertising, prompting Americans to ask their doctors about the benefits of medications.

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