The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Thursday approved the nation’s first over-the-counter birth control pill, a move that will likely pave the way for far greater access to contraception for Americans. Women will be able to buy the progestin-only oral contraceptive at drug stores, convenience stores and grocery stores, the FDA said. There is… read on > read on >
All Health and Wellness:
Nearly 1 in 5 Say Their Workplace Can Be Toxic, Poll Finds
About one-fifth of American workers say their workplace is toxic, and many say their mental health is harmed as a result. The American Psychological Association (APA) questioned 2,515 employed adults in April for its annual Work in America Survey. Nineteen percent stated that their workplace is very or somewhat toxic. “The number of individuals who… read on > read on >
In the Name of Better Slumber, a Third of American Couples Choose ‘Sleep Divorce’
More than one-third of coupled Americans who want better sleep are opting for a “sleep divorce.” They’re not actually divorcing, but sleeping in another room so that they each sleep better. “We know that poor sleep can worsen your mood, and those who are sleep deprived are more likely to argue with their partners. There… read on > read on >
Could ‘Produce Prescriptions’ Save $40 Billion in Medical Bills Among Those With Diabetes? Study Says Yes
A bunch of healthy fruits and vegetables could be just what the doctor ordered. Nonprofit groups and public health agencies have experimented with the idea of a produce prescription over the years. Now, a new study simulates what would happen if patients with diabetes and diet-related conditions were given free or discounted produce and nutrition… read on > read on >
Targeted Treatment Shrinks Rare Brain Tumors in Small Study
A targeted treatment has had unprecedented success in shrinking a rare brain tumor, according to clinical trial results. These tumors are papillary craniopharyngiomas (PCPs), and the drug combo is called vemurafenib/cobimetinib. Each of 15 patients who received one or more cycles of targeted therapy responded to treatment, with an average 91% reduction in tumor size,… read on > read on >
New Bionic Implant Allows Control of All Fingers
A multinational team of engineers and surgeons has developed a bionic hand with a high level of function in every finger — a significant advance for amputees. The team, from the United States, Sweden, Australia and Italy, developed a way to reconfigure what remains of a patient’s limb. Then, they integrated sensors and a skeletal… read on > read on >
COVID-19 May Have Spread Between Humans, Deer
New research shows that humans and deer passed the coronavirus back and forth in late 2021 and early 2022, raising concerns that this animal reservoir could become a source of new variants. Humans passed the virus to deer more than 100 times during that period, according to the study, which was led by the U.S.… read on > read on >
Fibromyalgia Tied to Higher Risk of Death From Many Causes
For years, people with the widespread pain disorder fibromyalgia were told their symptoms were all in their heads, but now the illness is being taken much more seriously with good reason. Folks with fibromyalgia are more likely to die early from accidents, infections and by suicide, new research suggests. “Fibromyalgia is often called an ‘imaginary… read on >
Stressed? Depressed? Mindfulness Training Could Offer Long-Term Relief
The centuries-old practice of mindfulness is having a moment in present times, and a new study finds the therapy can improve mental health for at least six months. Analyzing the results of 13 prior studies, U.K. researchers concluded that in-person, teacher-led mindfulness courses were tied to reduced stress and anxiety. Mindfulness “was the seventh step… read on > read on >
AHA News: Summer Break Weight Gain Is Real, With Latino Children Especially at Risk
WEDNESDAY, July 12, 2023 (American Heart Association News) — School’s out for the summer, and millions of children are home relaxing, working or frolicking in the sun. But, summer’s also a time when many kids can gain weight quickly – and at unhealthy levels. The obesity rate for children in the United States has nearly… read on > read on >