In a new study of patients with the heart rhythm disorder atrial fibrillation (a-fib), 4 in 10 had previously undetected brain damage, though none had a history of stroke or mini-stroke. This brain damage could put them at risk for mental decline and dementia, researchers said. Their study included nearly 1,400 patients in Switzerland, average… read on >
More and more pregnant or breastfeeding women are using marijuana, and U.S. pediatricians are pushing back against the notion that the drug is “safe.” There’s evidence that exposure to marijuana compounds might harm the fetus, and these compounds might also find their way into breast milk, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says in a… read on >
Everyone worries about drug abuse among children, but a hidden danger for some kids rests in prescription medicines intended to help them, a new study warns. Some children and teenagers who are prescribed multiple medications are at risk of drug interactions that could literally stop their heart, according to the report. “We found that about… read on >
Senator John McCain’s long battle with brain cancer ended on Saturday afternoon when he passed away at his home in Arizona. His family had announced Friday that McCain was no longer receiving treatment for his glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive of brain tumors. The 81-year-old Republican Arizona senator and Vietnam War hero had been… read on >
Pregnant women and newborns are more vulnerable to foodborne illness than others, the U.S. Department of Agriculture says. Here are the agency’s suggestions for pregnant and breastfeeding women to avoid foodborne illness: Clean hands and surfaces often. Separate foods to avoid spreading contamination. Cook foods to proper temperature. Use a meat thermometer when appropriate. Chill… read on >
Children need nutritious lunches to help them stay healthier, concentrate in school and play sports. The FDA suggests how to pack a healthier lunch: Plan your meals for the entire week. Fill your child’s lunchbox with foods that contribute to healthy growth and weight maintenance. Encourage your child to help pack lunch. This will help… read on >
As parents send their kids back to school, they need to remember the school day includes the hours before and after classes, a leading pediatrician’s group says. Children in grade school and middle school require supervision, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). An adult should be available to get them ready and off… read on >
Want to help your kids succeed at school? Watch what they eat. Research shows that children who have a nutritious breakfast have better concentration, more energy and do better in school, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Some schools provide breakfast. If your kids’ school does not, make sure they eat a breakfast… read on >
Do you get way too involved when following sports events? Whether it’s the World Series, the Super Bowl or the Olympics, it’s important to draw a line between being a fan and being a fanatic … so your actions don’t spiral out of control. Rooting for your favorite team is one thing. But researchers from… read on >
Could baby poop hold the key to a healthy gut? A new study suggests that might be the case. An analysis of fecal samples collected from the diapers of 34 healthy infants identified 10 strains of gut bacteria that may boost the body’s production of short-chain fatty acids. “Short-chain fatty acids are a key component… read on >
