A tuberculosis vaccine commonly used in other parts of the world might reduce a person’s risk of developing lung cancer if given early in childhood, a six-decade-long study reports. The Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine is the only vaccine approved for preventing tuberculosis (TB) — a potentially fatal infectious disease that typically attacks the lungs. Because…  read on >

One in three people with lupus uses opioid painkillers even though there is little evidence that they reduce the pain of rheumatic diseases, a new study finds. “Rheumatic diseases, such as lupus, are a leading cause of chronic pain,” said lead author Emily Somers. She’s an associate professor of rheumatology, environmental health sciences, and obstetrics…  read on >

Backpacks are a practical way for people to carry books and other supplies. They are designed to distribute the weight of these items among the body’s muscles, says the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. But when used incorrectly, backpacks can harm muscles and joints. To prevent injury when using a backpack, the academy suggests: Always…  read on >

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is in the news a lot, and now newer research has prompted a leading pediatricians’ group to update its guidelines for diagnosing and treating the disorder for the first time since 2011. Dr. Mark Wolraich, lead author of the guidelines, noted that there weren’t any dramatic differences between these and previous guidelines.…  read on >

New research suggests that anxiety and depression can make it hard for some kids to manage their asthma. Young patients with all three conditions ended up in the emergency room nearly twice as often as kids who only struggle with asthma, the study found. “Asthma self-management is complex, requiring recognition of symptoms, adherence to medication…  read on >

If a mother is depressed, her young children might be at risk for hyperactivity, aggressiveness and anxiety, a new study suggests. Interestingly, a father’s depression only affected kids if mom was also depressed, the researchers found. “Depression among parents both during and after pregnancy not only affects the person suffering from depression but also has…  read on >

You’ve signed up for your first fitness event and you’ve mapped out your training schedule for success. Now add mental preparation to the plan. It’s essential because the very physical training that gets your body into shape for competition can dull your mental motivation and even bore your muscles, according to the American College of…  read on >

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a potentially serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and death, says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. An annual seasonal flu shot is the best way to protect against the disease. The CDC offers these facts on the seasonal flu vaccine: Seasonal flu vaccine protects…  read on >

Eyestrain occurs when your eyes get tired from intense use, says Mayo Clinic. Usually, eyestrain is not serious and goes away once you rest your eyes or make lifestyle changes. To reduce eyestrain, Mayo suggests: Blink often to refresh your eyes. Take breaks. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.…  read on >

Here’s a good reason to encourage your teenager to play more than one sport: New research finds kids who concentrate on only one sport may be at risk for stress fractures, tendinitis and knee injuries. “It’s wonderful for a child to love a sport and to want to engage in it, but we must keep…  read on >