Hundreds of rural hospitals across the United States are teetering on the edge of closure, with their financial status increasingly in peril, a new report reveals. More than 200 rural hospitals are at immediate risk of closure because they aren’t making enough money to cover the rising cost of providing care, and their low financial… read on > read on >
People suffering from depression or anxiety may be able to help themselves by helping others — even in small ways, researchers report. In a recent study of 122 people with depression or anxiety symptoms, those who started fitting small acts of kindness into their day showed an improvement in their symptoms. And when it came… read on > read on >
Cannabis use in U.S. states where recreational use is legal could be contributing to children’s asthma, according to new research. A study found increases in asthma in teens where cannabis is legal, compared to states where it remains banned for medicinal and recreational use. The study also found increased asthma in children in some minority… read on > read on >
If a study conducted at one St. Louis hospital is a good indicator, the COVID pandemic is tied to a surge in childhood injuries and deaths due to firearms. Black children and those in low-income households were at greater risk, according to the University of Missouri-led study. “We found a significant increase in pediatric firearm… read on > read on >
It’s never too late for an expectant mom to adopt healthy habits for her baby and herself. The American Heart Association (AHA) offers some heart-healthy tips. “Pregnancy is often a pivotal time in a woman’s life from both short- and long-term perspectives,” said Dr. Michelle Albert, volunteer president of the American Heart Association. “For some,… read on > read on >
Moving a heavy object or even coughing can result in a medical condition known as a hernia. While it’s common, many people don’t know what a hernia is, according to an expert at Penn State Health, who offered details on causes, symptoms and treatment. “While we typically associate heavy lifting or strenuous activity with the… read on > read on >
Overuse of antibiotics may trigger inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), new research suggests. Among folks who were 40 or older, a new study found that antibiotics may increase the risk for bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis, for one to two years after use. And the greatest risk was posed by two classes of… read on > read on >
An artificial pancreas has long been considered the holy grail for people with type 1 diabetes, and new research suggests a more convenient version of this technology may help the millions of people living with type 2 diabetes. Type 2 is the more common form of diabetes, and is closely linked to obesity. The pancreas… read on > read on >
Doctors already test seniors’ hearing and vision. Sense of smell could be added to screenings one day, according to researchers who found links between its loss and risk of frailty in older adults. “We use our sense of smell to identify the threat of a fire or to enjoy the fragrance of flowers on a… read on > read on >
Worries that clergy will urge depressed congregants to rely on prayer and not other mental health care appear to be unfounded. A nationwide survey found that 90% of clergy members embraced a medical understanding of the causes and treatment of depression. About 10% said they would recommend using religious means alone to address depression. “We… read on > read on >
