Rave online reviews about a hospital stay may not mean much about the actual medical care there, if a new study is any indication. Researchers found that across U.S. hospitals, patient-satisfaction scores were more dependent on “hospitality” factors — like friendly nurses, quiet rooms and good food — than on hard measures of health care… read on >
Vice President Mike Pence will lead the U.S. response to a potential global pandemic of the coronavirus COVID-19, President Donald Trump announced Wednesday evening. The move came amid growing political pressure on his administration to take a more energized response to the coronavirus, which has infected more than 82,000 people in 37 countries and killed… read on >
In a sign that suggests America’s obesity epidemic is far from under control, a new government report shows that more than 40% of people in the United States are obese. And almost 1 in 10 is severely obese, the researchers added. “Over the time period from 1999 to 2018, the obesity prevalence increased about 12%… read on >
THURSDAY, Feb. 27, 2020With U.S. health officials this week declaring a domestic outbreak of coronavirus a “not if, but when” situation, one expert in infectious illness offers guidance on how you can prepare and protect yourself. First of all, if you do develop symptoms such as fever, congestion and coughing, “it’s important to stay calm… read on >
More cases of coronavirus cropped up in countries throughout the world on Wednesday, one day after top U.S. health officials warned that a coronavirus outbreak on American soil is now all but a certainty. “As more and more countries experience community spread, successful containment at our borders becomes harder and harder. Ultimately, we expect we… read on >
Sugar-sweetened drinks can play havoc with your cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which increases your risk for heart disease and stroke, a new study finds. Specifically, drinking more than 12 ounces (1 standard can) of sugary sodas or fruit drinks a day may not bode well for your cardiovascular health, researchers say. “Think before you drink.… read on >
A spirited game of ping pong may be more than just fun: New research suggests it could quell symptoms in Parkinson’s patients. The small study found that patients with the movement disorder had significant improvements in a wide range of symptoms after taking part in a six-month ping pong exercise program. “Ping pong, which is… read on >
Starting the day with a big breakfast and keeping dinner light may help you burn more calories and keep you trimmer, new research suggests. Eating this way may also keep your blood sugar levels from going too high, the small study found. “Extensive breakfasting should be preferred over large dinner meals,” said study lead author… read on >
Female firefighters are exposed to chemicals that may be linked with breast and other types of cancer, researchers say. Compared to women working in offices, female firefighters in San Francisco are exposed to higher levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These chemicals are used in firefighting foam and uniforms, grease- and water-resistant coatings and… read on >
A $2.5 billion plan to fight the coronavirus outbreak was sent by the White House to Congress on Monday evening, as countries around the world raced to stem outbreaks of “untraceable” cases of the virus. The money would be used for vaccines, treatment and protective equipment, the Associated Press reported. While $1.25 billion would be… read on >
