Could a computer model pinpoint where measles outbreaks are likely to occur? That’s exactly what researchers did, accurately predicting some of the U.S. regions where measles might spread. Their predictions included counties in New York, Washington state and Oregon, where measles outbreaks are already raging. In total, 25 counties were identified as measles-prone. Not only… read on >
Insect repellents can help prevent bug bites. But it’s important to take precautions when using them, says the City of New York. Precautions include: Follow the manufacturer’s directions. Apply a light coat to exposed skin. Do not apply repellent to skin that is under clothing. Do not apply repellent to cuts or wounds. Do not… read on >
(HealthDay News) — Could people struggling with obesity make headway in their efforts to shed pounds without having to go under the knife? New preliminary research suggests it’s possible: A non-surgical procedure may help moderately obese people lose weight — and keep it off. Unlike standard weight-loss surgery, endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) requires no incision… read on >
The loss of loved ones can hit the elderly particularly hard, but a new study suggests it’s anger, and not sadness, that may damage the aging body more. Anger can increase inflammation, which is linked with conditions such as heart disease, cancer and arthritis, the researchers said. “As most people age, they simply cannot do… read on >
Few things are as distressing as baby’s cries when his or her first teeth are coming in, but it’s important to know what not to use to soothe that pain. Over the years, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued warnings about many teething products, starting with over-the-counter gels and liquids containing benzocaine, which… read on >
Calluses are thick, hardened layers of skin. For healthy people, treatment is only necessary if a callus causes discomfort, says Mayo Clinic. Mayo suggests how to treat calluses at home: Use over-the-counter pads. Soak the area in water. Moisturize your skin. Wear comfortable socks and shoes. For most people, removing sources of friction causes calluses… read on >
New York’s ongoing measles epidemic alarmed midtown Manhattan resident Deb Ivanhoe, who couldn’t remember whether she’d ever been vaccinated as a child. So Ivanhoe, 60, sought out her long-time primary care doctor, who performed an antibody test to see whether she had any protection against measles. To her surprise, the test revealed that Ivanhoe had… read on >
Profoundly obese people are prone to an irregular heartbeat known as atrial fibrillation, but new research suggests that weight-loss surgery can improve the odds that a procedure to restore a normal heart rhythm will work. When atrial fibrillation, or a-fib, cannot be controlled by medications, a procedure called ablation can help. It targets the nerves… read on >
Bucking a longstanding upward trend, new data shows that the percentage of Americans taking any prescription drug has fallen slightly over the past decade. Still, nearly half — 45.8% — of Americans said they took at least one prescription medicine over the past month, according to a national survey conducted in 2015-2016. That’s a slight… read on >
The United States’ ability to deal with major health emergencies quickly has improved significantly in recent years, researchers say. In 2019, America scored 6.7 on the 10-point National Health Security Preparedness Index. That’s a 3.1% improvement over the last year, and up 11.7% since the index was created in 2013. The findings show the nation… read on >
