Your parents’ jobs likely had a strong influence on what you do for a living, according to a study that questions the belief in social mobility in the United States. “A lot of Americans think the U.S. has more social mobility than other western industrialized countries. This makes it abundantly clear that we have less,”… read on >
In vitro fertilization gives couples struggling to conceive the chance to have children, but a new study suggests these kids are at increased risk for high blood pressure. The study, of 54 teens conceived through assisted reproduction, found that eight — or 15 percent — had high blood pressure. That compared with just one case… read on >
Playtime is important to any child, especially one that is under pressure and stressed, the American Academy of Pediatrics says. Playtime is a brain-building activity that’s a healthy and necessary part of childhood development, the academy adds. The group offers this advice to parents, doctors and educators: Doctors should encourage playful learning by writing a… read on >
If someone in your family is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, it is important to talk with children about what is happening, the U.S. National Institute on Aging says. The amount of information you share should depend on the child’s age and maturity. The agency suggests how to help kids understand Alzheimer’s: Answer questions simply and… read on >
Not being able to attend face-to-face meetings doesn’t mean you can’t get the benefits of joining an organized diet group. All you need is an internet connection. Online diet programs let you sign in for information and motivation at any hour of the day or night. Participating in a web-based weight-loss program can be helpful… read on >
Homelessness threatens young children’s health, even if it occurs while they’re still in the womb, a new study shows. “These findings back up what we already knew about how the stress of homelessness affects children’s heath, but this helps us determine which children are at greatest risk, and makes the argument that policymakers and providers… read on >
All children 6 months of age and older should have a flu shot, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says. A flu shot significantly reduces a child’s risk of severe illness and flu-related death, according to the policy statement published online Sept. 3 in the journal Pediatrics. “The flu virus is common — and unpredictable.… read on >
HealthDay News) — Schools often have classroom pets, such as hamsters, fish or frogs. Caring for those animals can be a great learning experience for kids. But exposure to animals does have some risk, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says. Young children are still developing an immune system, so they are more likely… read on >
Pet medication should be safely stored to prevent your pet from accidental overdose, and other medical problems such as vomiting, diarrhea and pancreatitis, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration says. The FDA suggests how to keep your pet healthier: Keep pet medication in the original containers with labels. Keep pet medication in a secure location.… read on >
Women need to know the symptoms of ovarian cancer and see a doctor if they have them, an ob-gyn expert says. Ovarian cancer is the fifth-leading cause of death in American women, claiming more lives than any other cancer of the female reproductive system, according to the American Cancer Society. About 22,240 women in the… read on >
