People with a genetic predisposition for high cholesterol can lower their levels by taking fish oil supplements, a new study shows. The results indicate that lifestyle can be a powerful influence on artery-clogging cholesterol, even if a person’s genetics tends to make those levels higher, researchers said. “Recent advances in genetic studies have allowed us… read on > read on >
Nearly 1 in every 10 chronic pain patients treated with prescription opioids winds up addicted to the painkillers at some point, a new review finds. Further, nearly 1 in 3 will show symptoms of opioid addiction, researchers reported Aug. 7 in the journal Addiction. That evidence runs counter to claims made by companies like Oxycontin… read on > read on >
Kids and teens around the world are consuming more sugary drinks, increasing their risk of future health problems, a new study finds. Young people consumed nearly 23% more sugar-sweetened beverages in 2018 compared to 1990, according to the report published Aug. 7 in the BMJ. “Sugary beverages increase weight gain and risk of obesity, so… read on > read on >
Many people with Parkinson’s disease may fear dementia as a common consequence of the disease. But new research suggests dementia is not inevitable with Parkinson’s, and in fact is less common than presumed. If dementia does occur, it typically does so much later in life than was previously assumed, the study also found. “These results… read on > read on >
More than 1 in 4 Americans 50 or older are now caregivers, looking after at least one family member or friend who has a health problem or disability, a new poll has found. In all, 30% of all people in their 50s and early 60s provide care to at least one person, the University of… read on > read on >
This summer’s blistering temperatures have helped prompt an emergency blood shortage, the American Red Cross has warned. Heat waves affected almost 100 blood drives last month, either by hurting turnout or forcing the events to be canceled. Since July 1, the national blood supply has fallen by more than 25%, the organization said in a news… read on > read on >
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In an historic move, the Environmental Protection Agency on Tuesday banned the use of a pesticide that can harm fetuses. Known as dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate (DCPA or Dacthal), the weedkiller is used on a variety of crops, including broccoli, onions, kale, Brussels sprouts and cabbage. However, when a pregnant woman is exposed to the chemical, it… read on > read on >
Whites are three times more likely to survive a cardiac arrest after receiving bystander CPR than Black adults are, a new study has found. Likewise, men are twice as likely to survive after bystander CPR than women, researchers found. “CPR saves lives — that, we know,” said researcher Dr. Paula Einhorn, a program officer at… read on > read on >
Remember your besties from high school? Sure, they made a lasting impression, but science suggests they influenced the trajectory of your health, too. It’s not that far-fetched: Your friends carry genes that may or may nor predispose them to mental health issues ranging from addiction to anxiety and depression. That can influence the mental health… read on > read on >
It’s tough to open up to a doctor, even though it’s vital if patients want the best care for what ails them. Why the reticence? People worry they’ll be judged by their doctor if they share mistaken beliefs or false ideas. Now, a new study finds that’s not an unfounded worry. Doctors really do take… read on > read on >
