Ask Beijing Today

Where can I go for breast cancer screening in town? I can’t afford international hospitals like the Beijing United Family Hospital. Is there a hospital here that caters especially to women?
You can go to major local hospitals like Xiehe Hospital or Beida Hospital. They all have a wing for foreign patients, but note that the queue at Beida Hospital may be too long. A lot of other hospitals provide cancer screening services. Check out ones close to your neighborhood.

I’ve seen people in gym locker rooms with cupping marks on various parts of their bodies. What is the health benefit of doing this? And is it true that acupuncture can help people loseweight? I’ve read various testimonials, but haven’t actually met a person who can vouch for these results. I don’t intend giving up exercise, but will this help?
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory, cupping helps to rid the body of heat or cold. One Beijing Today staff member recommends acupuncture to lose weight. 
She said some people need a combination of acupuncture, diet and exercise to see results, while others slim down just through acupuncture. We are interested to know what works for you.

Do you know a tanning place around Wudaokou or somewhere in Haidian District? I know a few in Chaoyang District, but since I live in the Wudaokou university area, I don’t want to travel too far.
There is a tanning salon on the third floor of Caizhi Guojia Dasha. (Where: 18 Zhongguancun Dong Lu, Haidian District)
Tel: 5166 0849

I’m looking for small ceramic beads with letters and floral designs, necklace strings and fasteners to make accessories.Where is a good place to get them? 
You can find them on the fourth floor of both Yanshow and Silk Street, where pearls and other jewelry are sold. If they are not on display, just ask the salespeople for help. They should not cost much, so do not forget to bargain.

(By Wei Ying)