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Many people have small pouches in their colons that bulge outward through weak spots. Each pouch is called a diverticulum. About 10% of Americans older than age 40 years have diverticulosis, which, when the pouches become infected or inflamed, is called diverticulitis. The main cause of diverticular disease is a low-fiber diet.
The term bacteria was devised in the 19th century by German biologist Ferdinand Cohn. He based it on the Greek word "bakterion" meaning a small rod or staff. Cohn is considered to be the father of modern bacteriology.
Most childhood vaccines are 90–99% effective in preventing disease. Side effects are rarely serious.
Medication errors are more common among seriously ill patients than with those with minor conditions.
Drying your hands with a paper towel will reduce the bacterial count on your hands by 45–60%.