THURSDAY, Oct. 4, 2018Vitamin D supplements have long been touted as a way to improve bone health and possibly ward off the bone-thinning disease osteoporosis in older adults. But a new study contends that claims of benefits from supplements of the “sunshine vitamin” fall flat. A review of previously published studies found that taking either…  read on >

In 2016, almost 174 Americans died each day due to drug overdoses — and roughly two-thirds of those deaths were caused by opioid drugs. The statistics are startling and make the problem seem hopeless. But is it? Beating drug addiction — whether it’s opioids (such as OxyContin), methamphetamine or something else — is definitely a…  read on >

If your child has seasonal allergies, you may be overwhelmed by the process of deciding on a treatment plan. The American Academy of Pediatrics says you should start with your child’s pediatrician. The doctor may refer you to a pediatric allergy specialist, or suggest a treatment plan during an office visit. The academy offers these…  read on >

Americans’ love affair with fast food continues, with 1 in every 3 adults chowing down on the fare on any given day. That’s the finding from a new report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. When asked by researchers, 37 percent of adults said they’d eaten fast food at least once over…  read on >

Among the most significant advances in surgery has been the development of laparoscopic — or minimally invasive — procedures. These are new ways to perform many standard operations, with a few, very small incisions, often barely a half-inch long, compared to traditional so-called open surgery with one incision several inches long. To perform an operation…  read on >

TUESDAY, Oct. 2, 2018The number of Americans with diabetes who wind up in hospitals with serious infections, or who develop them while in the hospital, is on the rise. Between 2010 and 2015, the number of diabetics hospitalized for infections rose 52 percent (from 16 per 1,000 people to 24 per 1,000), according to researchers…  read on >

Type 2 diabetes is associated with an increased risk of developing cancer and dying from certain forms of the disease, a new study suggests. However, the researchers noted, the absolute increased risk is low. “Our findings do not suggest that everyone who has diabetes will go on to develop cancer in later life,” said study…  read on >

Pain sends more people to the doctor than any other ailment. But if you don’t want relief from a medicine bottle — or when that relief isn’t enough — consider complementary and integrative health approaches for their emotional as well as physical benefits. Though certain types of movement can feel painful, especially if you’re in…  read on >

Only a small percentage of Americans have had their DNA analyzed — but many are tempted to try it, according to new research. For the study, University of Michigan researchers surveyed nearly 1,000 adults aged 50 to 64. While curious about their ancestry or health risks, the majority said they fear they’ll worry excessively if…  read on >

A Cesarean section is major surgery, and it’s normal to be tired and have pain and discomfort after the procedure, the Mayo Clinic says. Mayo offers this advice about recovery after a C-section: Rest as often as you can. Avoid lifting anything heavier than your newborn. Take pain medication as needed and use a heating…  read on >