For many breast cancer patients, removal of lymph nodes in the armpit area is a common procedure, due to worries that the tumor has spread to these tissues. But the operation can also bring the difficult long-term side effect of lymphedema, a painful arm swelling. Now, new Dutch research suggests that for early stage breast… read on >
Heart patients taking part in cardiac rehabilitation could receive a spicy side effect from the program — a boost in their sex life. Attending cardiac rehab is associated with improved sexual function and more frequent sex, according to a new evidence review. The program likely helps by increasing the patient’s physical fitness, said lead researcher… read on >
Medical science has made tremendous advances in “personalized medicine” — drugs that fight cancer and other diseases by boosting the immune system or targeting specific genetic traits. Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter benefited from one of these drugs, Keytruda (pembrolizumab), which successfully beat back his brain cancer by ramping up his immune system. But the… read on >
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head. Symptoms of a concussion tend to appear soon after an injury occurs, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says. If you or a loved one is playing a team sport and suspect a concussion, the… read on >
Different speech therapists have differing approaches for stuttering, so it’s important to evaluate your needs before choosing a therapist, the Stuttering Foundation says. Before starting treatment, the Foundation suggests asking therapist candidates these questions: How comfortable are you with treating stuttering? How many teens and adults who stutter have you worked with? What do you… read on >
With so much emphasis on fresh, farm-to-table foods, it’s easy to overlook the value of canned items. These are convenient, often cheaper alternatives to fresh and frozen. Use these tips to help you choose wisely. When shopping, look for cans in good shape. Don’t buy — or keep — cans that are dented, rusted or… read on >
Whether you track your diet efforts on paper or with an app, frequent and consistent self-monitoring contributes to success. However, one aspect of recordkeeping — how often to get on the scale — has been the subject of much debate. Daily weigh-ins used to be thought of as negative, capable of discouraging you if the… read on >
Living in a neighborhood with lots of greenery just might protect your ticker. “Our study shows that living in a neighborhood dense with trees, bushes and other green vegetation may be good for the health of your heart and blood vessels,” said study author Aruni Bhatnagar, director of the University of Louisville’s Diabetes and Obesity… read on >
A new test for chlamydia can provide results within 30 minutes, potentially speeding up the start of treatment, researchers say. The rapid test for the sexually transmitted disease (STD) means patients can receive treatment immediately, instead of having to wait for a follow-up appointment. This could help reduce the spread of the disease, according to… read on >
For certain women with early stage breast cancer, a newer drug that combines an antibody with chemotherapy may cut the risk of disease recurrence in half, a new trial finds. The study focused on nearly 1,500 women with early stage breast cancer that was HER2-positive — meaning it carries a protein that promotes cancer growth.… read on >
