Major volcanic eruptions like the one going on in Hawaii are rare, but they can lead to serious health concerns. Volcanos produce gases mixed with water and tiny particles that form a type of pollution called vog. It can irritate the eyes and trigger heart attacks and respiratory problems such as asthma and wheezing. Active… read on >
Studies show that depression is underreported. People aren’t getting the help they need, sometimes because they don’t know the warning signs or where to turn, or are embarrassed because of the stigma that can still surround mental health issues. But the numbers are too great to ignore. Up to 26 percent of U.S. women and… read on >
Humidity doesn’t hinder the ability of flu viruses to infect people, claims a new study that challenges a long-held belief that the viruses become less active in moist conditions. The researchers found that mucus and other airway secretions expelled during coughs or sneezes protect flu viruses when they’re airborne, regardless of humidity levels. The findings… read on >
You’re probably familiar with the stereotypes about people who wear glasses — these folks are studious and spend a lot of time indoors with their noses in a book. As is often the case, it turns out that at least that stereotype may be true, a new British study suggests. The research found that the… read on >
Gum disease may include symptoms from swollen gums to bad breath and loose or sensitive teeth. Gum disease starts with a buildup of bacteria in the mouth. Tiny microbes combine with mucus and other particles to form plaque on the teeth and gumline. Brushing and flossing will get rid of some plaque, but if any… read on >
Treating stroke survivors’ blood pressure more aggressively might prevent a substantial number of deaths, a new study estimates. Last year, new guidelines from the American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association lowered the threshold for diagnosing high blood pressure. They said people should consider treatment when their numbers reach 130/80 mm Hg or higher… read on >
Vegan diets are hard for many people to stick with long-term, but studies show that this way of eating can translate to weight loss. Vegan is the strictest type of vegetarian diet — you choose only foods from plant sources, such as vegetables, fruits and grains, and avoid all animal products. In a small trial… read on >
One in four U.S. high school seniors would try marijuana or use it more often if it was legal, a new survey finds. That rate — the highest in the 43-year history of the Monitoring the Future survey — likely reflects growing pot legalization in the United States, researchers said. Broken down, about 15 percent… read on >
Maybe there’s a good reason you dislike cold weather: The risk of death from a heart attack is higher in the winter than in the summer, a new study says. Researchers at Leeds General Infirmary in England examined data from more than 4,000 patients treated for heart attack over four years. They found the risk… read on >
If you’re a man and you suffer from heart disease or diabetes, stress at work may shorten your life, a new study finds. The researchers said a demanding job in which you have little or no control over your work environment is a formula that can increase the risk of dying early whether you suffer… read on >
