Young women are far less likely now to get an annual pelvic exam than they were in decades past, a new report finds. In 1988, about 42% of those aged 15 to 20 got the standard gynecologic exam, but by 2017 that number had dropped by half, to just under 22%, according to researchers from… read on >
Next time you’re ready to hit the sofa for an evening of TV, think twice — it just might kill you. Though too much sitting has long been linked to health risks, a new study suggests all sitting isn’t the same — and sitting in front of the TV after dinner for long hours at… read on >
Stress fractures are overuse injuries and usually occur in the lower leg. Typically, they are triggered by increasing the amount or intensity of an activity too quickly, says the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. To prevent stress fractures, the AAOS suggests: Set incremental goals for sports and activities. Cross-train, rather than repeat the same exercise… read on >
Sun protection should not be limited to those with fair skin, says the Skin of Color Society. People with darker skin are still at risk of skin cancer triggered by the sun’s ultraviolet rays. The Skin of Color Society recommends using sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher that protects against UVA and UVB… read on >
Experts agree that detecting breast cancer early offers a better outlook, but when to start screenings and how often to have them has changed repeatedly. The goal has been to balance early detection with the distress of false positives that lead to unnecessary testing. But leading medical organizations differ regarding the guidelines, making it incumbent… read on >
Many parents think it couldn’t happen to their kids, but the number of children and teens admitted to children’s hospitals for thoughts of self-harm or suicide is alarming. Each year 4,600 young people between the ages of 10 and 24 take their own lives, and 157,000 are treated in emergency departments for self-inflicted injuries, according… read on >
If you struggle to eat a healthy lunch during your workday, a new survey suggests you’re far from alone. “The good news is most people said they are interested in doing better” when it comes to healthy eating, said Dr. Anne Thorndike, vice chair of the nutrition committee at the American Heart Association (AHA). The… read on >
About half of adults have bad breath at some point, says the American Dental Association. Medically called halitosis, it is frequently caused by eating certain potent foods, smoking or dry mouth. To help get rid of bad breath, the ADA suggests: Brush twice a day. Floss daily. Use a toothbrush or scraper to clean your… read on >
Whether you are bitten by your dog or an unknown one, you must treat the wound without delay. Immediate treatment reduces your risk of infection, says Cleveland Clinic. To treat a dog bite, the clinic suggests: Press on the wound gently to flush out bacteria. Wash the wound with soap and water. Slow bleeding with… read on >
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods including fatty fish and flaxseed, may be best known for their link to heart health, but they’re also vital for pregnant women and their babies. These important nutrients have been linked to a reduced risk for depression for mom and a better birth weight for baby along with improved… read on >
