It’s a good idea to get children outside every day, but especially on Kids to Parks Day, a national day of outdoor play on May 21. “Even as the COVID-19 pandemic continues, outdoor time and nature exploration are safe for most kids,” pediatrician Dr. Danette Glassy said in an American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) news…  read on >  read on >

A skin biopsy is often used to diagnose skin cancer and other skin conditions. It involves the removal of a small amount of skin, which is examined under a microscope. Afterwards, you’ll need to look after the biopsy location to make sure it heals properly. “Your dermatologist will treat the small wound from the skin…  read on >  read on >

If you’re a senior and walking to the mailbox takes longer than it used to, new research suggests you might want to ask your doctor to check your thinking skills. The study included nearly 17,000 adults over 65 and found those who walk about 5% slower or more each year and also had memory declines…  read on >  read on >

Meditation and other mindfulness practices may improve your attention, but they won’t lead to structural changes in your brain in the short-term, according to a new study. Previous studies have shown that learning new skills, aerobic exercise and balance training could trigger changes in the brain, and some research has suggested that mindfulness regimens could…  read on >  read on >

As many as 50 million Americans deal with acne. The blemishes can be painful and, for some, embarrassing. Now, researchers may have found a new weapon to fight acne — one without harsh side effects. A study in Germany has pinpointed omega-3 fatty acids — found in fish oil, wild salmon, nuts and seeds —…  read on >  read on >

Rates of childhood obesity in the United States are soaring, and new research suggests child care programs may be part of the problem. Most tots in these programs aren’t getting nearly enough exercise. National guidance for child care programs calls for providing at least two opportunities a day for physical activity, totaling 60 to 90…  read on >  read on >

People who’ve had a major traumatic brain injury (TBI) may be at increased risk for dementia, according to a new study. “Approximately 1 in 10 people in our study who had major TBI did develop dementia,” said study co-author Dr. Rahul Raj, of the University of Helsinki in Finland. A major TBI was defined as…  read on >  read on >

With summer comes warm weather and swimming. But for some people, knowing how to swim may not be enough to ensure their safety. That’s because certain medical conditions bump up the risk for drowning in a big way, according to a new Canadian study. About one in three adults and children over age 10 who…  read on >  read on >