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Dig the beach? Be careful

Study suggests that sand-diggers may be at risk for stomach trouble.

We have fond beach memories of being buried in the sand, and of building hopelessly soggy and wholly unsatisfactory sand castles.

We had no idea that we were risking our health.

A recent study by researchers from the Environmental Protection Agency, John Hopkins University, and the University of North Carolina found that those who dig -- or get buried in -- sand are at a higher risk of contracting stomach ailments.

It's long been known that waters contaminated with fecal coliform can pose a health risk, that raises a complicating factor.

The researchers noted that teasing out sand-related ilnesses from the water-related isn't easy because most of the sand-diggers also spent time in the water.

Here's the EPA release, and our thanks to Rod Phillips at Storm Fax for bringing it to our attention.