The United States has more than two dozen regional hotspots for opioid overdose deaths, according to researchers who also found a link between fatal overdoses and mental distress. Ohio, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, West Virginia, Indiana and Tennessee have the highest percentage of opioid overdose deaths, but researchers identified 25 regional overdose clusters nationwide. The findings highlight… read on > read on >
An aggressive weight-loss program not only achieves remission of type 2 diabetes, but may also end the need for blood pressure medications, new research shows. “Our study shows that, in addition to possible remission from type 2 diabetes, there are other very important health benefits, as weight loss is a very effective treatment for hypertension… read on > read on >
You suddenly develop the sniffles. Is it allergies or COVID-19? One expert says whether you have a history of allergies might provide your biggest clue. “Symptoms such as congestion, sore throat and loss of smell are all common with both seasonal allergies and COVID-19,” said Dr. Jonathan Matz, an allergist and immunologist with LifeBridge Health,… read on > read on >
Many Americans have used telehealth and would turn to it for mental health care, a new online poll shows. Conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA) from March 26 to April 5, the poll found that 38% had used telehealth to consult with a health professional, up from 31% last fall. In all, 82% have… read on > read on >
As you head into the great outdoors this summer, keep safety in mind, an expert says. Drowning is one of summer’s risks. It only takes a few seconds and can happen without an obvious struggle, according to Dr. Seth Hawkins, a wilderness medicine expert and assistant professor of emergency medicine at Wake Forest Baptist Health… read on > read on >
It’s the first holiday since the pandemic began where Americans can mingle without masks if they are fully vaccinated, so celebrations are in order. But folks still need to avoid alcohol if they’re driving or boating over the Memorial Day weekend. “This Memorial Day weekend, as we honor our nation’s heroes who sacrificed their lives… read on > read on >
A native South American population that lives a pre-industrial lifestyle may have a slower rate of brain aging than the typical Westerner, a new study finds. The study focused on the Tsimane population, whose roughly 16,000 members dwell in a remote part of the Bolivian Amazon. They live by farming, hunting, gathering and fishing —… read on > read on >
Many health experts hailed the recent approval of the Pfizer vaccine for those aged 12 to 15, but some parents have been hesitant to take their kids in for a shot. “Parents naturally worry more about their children than they do about themselves — I think that’s parenting defined,” said Dr. Hina Talib, a pediatrician… read on > read on >
Surgery soon after a diagnosis of early-stage lung cancer is crucial in reducing the risk of recurrence and death, a new study finds. “Patients with early-stage cancer have the best chance for survival,” said senior author Dr. Varun Puri, a thoracic surgeon and professor of surgery at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.… read on > read on >
If more proof of the safety of vaccines is needed, a new study delivers fresh evidence that they carry few harms for children, adults and pregnant women. “This in-depth analysis found no evidence of increased risk of serious adverse events following vaccines, apart from a few — previously known — associations,” said Susanne Hempel, director… read on > read on >
