Medical science has made tremendous advances in “personalized medicine” — drugs that fight cancer and other diseases by boosting the immune system or targeting specific genetic traits. Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter benefited from one of these drugs, Keytruda (pembrolizumab), which successfully beat back his brain cancer by ramping up his immune system. But the… read on >
Heart patients taking part in cardiac rehabilitation could receive a spicy side effect from the program — a boost in their sex life. Attending cardiac rehab is associated with improved sexual function and more frequent sex, according to a new evidence review. The program likely helps by increasing the patient’s physical fitness, said lead researcher… read on >
For many breast cancer patients, removal of lymph nodes in the armpit area is a common procedure, due to worries that the tumor has spread to these tissues. But the operation can also bring the difficult long-term side effect of lymphedema, a painful arm swelling. Now, new Dutch research suggests that for early stage breast… read on >
Different speech therapists have differing approaches for stuttering, so it’s important to evaluate your needs before choosing a therapist, the Stuttering Foundation says. Before starting treatment, the Foundation suggests asking therapist candidates these questions: How comfortable are you with treating stuttering? How many teens and adults who stutter have you worked with? What do you… read on >
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head. Symptoms of a concussion tend to appear soon after an injury occurs, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says. If you or a loved one is playing a team sport and suspect a concussion, the… read on >
A new test for chlamydia can provide results within 30 minutes, potentially speeding up the start of treatment, researchers say. The rapid test for the sexually transmitted disease (STD) means patients can receive treatment immediately, instead of having to wait for a follow-up appointment. This could help reduce the spread of the disease, according to… read on >
Living in a neighborhood with lots of greenery just might protect your ticker. “Our study shows that living in a neighborhood dense with trees, bushes and other green vegetation may be good for the health of your heart and blood vessels,” said study author Aruni Bhatnagar, director of the University of Louisville’s Diabetes and Obesity… read on >
The world’s first baby born to a woman who had a uterus transplant from a deceased donor shows that such transplants can be successful, Brazilian doctors say. The 6-pound baby girl was delivered by C-section to an unidentified young woman who had been born without a uterus. The birth shows that pregnancies involving a uterus… read on >
Pain is the number one reason for why people visit the doctor, the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) says. Opioids are often used to treat pain, but they are highly addictive. Every day, more than 100 Americans die from an opioid overdose, the agency says. The NIH offers these suggestions: Ask your doctor about… read on >
As many as 4 out of 5 Americans withhold important information from their doctor that could prove crucial to their health, a new study shows. Between 60 and 80 percent of people admit they avoid telling their doctor details that could be relevant to their well-being. “I know at some level this is a ‘no… read on >
