Where you live in the world may determine whether you’ll survive a snakebite. About 93 million people worldwide live in remote regions where there are venomous snakes. If bitten, these folks are at increased risk of death due to limited access to anti-venom drugs, researchers said. “Understanding where venomous snakes live and people’s proximity to… read on >
New research suggests that no two brains are alike, as genetics and experience make their mark on your mind. “With our study, we were able to confirm that the structure of people’s brains is very individual,” said study author Lutz Jancke. He is a professor of neuropsychology at the University of Zurich in Switzerland. “Just… read on >
Need another reason to eat healthy? New evidence bolsters the notion that nutritionally rich foods might help prevent or minimize asthma. While the study couldn’t prove cause and effect, one asthma specialist said there’s certainly no downside to eating better. “The health benefits of a diet rich in plant foods and unprocessed foods are already… read on >
The type 2 diabetes tide remains unchecked in the United States, as does pre-diabetes — having a blood sugar level higher than normal, but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. A U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report found that about 30 million Americans — roughly 10 percent of the population — have… read on >
Microwave ovens, regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, should be safe to use without risking exposure to unhealthy amounts of radiation. Burns — from hot containers, overheated food or boiling liquids — are another story. The agency offers these tips to help ensure safer use of your microwave: Follow all instructions in the… read on >
The brain is the most complex organ in the body. It’s the center of learning, and is responsible for processing sensory information and directing the body’s responses. The teen brain is still maturing, though it’s more resilient, the U.S. National Institute of Mental Health says. The agency offers these additional facts about the young brain:… read on >
In a country where four out of 10 adults are obese, it’s probably good news that half of U.S. adults say they’ve recently tried to shed some pounds. They did this most often through exercise, cutting calories and eating their fruits and veggies, according to a new government survey that tracked Americans’ weight-loss attempts between… read on >
A type of therapy that harnesses the immune system is giving new hope to people battling a once hopeless cancer — melanoma that’s spread to the brain. New research involving more than 2,700 U.S. patients is confirming what specialists in the field have long known — that “checkpoint blockade” treatment can beat back these devastating… read on >
While some politicians are snubbing science, the American public is choosing to do the opposite, a new study suggests. “In the context of debates regarding the loss of trust in experts, what we show is that in actual fact, when compared to a government working group, the public in the U.S. and U.K. judge scientists… read on >
Restrictive abortion laws may drive some Americans to look for abortion medications online, a new study reports. “Though it may be surprising to consider, people in the United States are looking for ways to end their pregnancies at home using abortion pills they can get online,” said study author Abigail Aiken. She’s an assistant professor… read on >
