Numerous studies have found discrimination can hurt aspects of human health. Now, new research adds to that the impact of discrimination on the youngest humans by linking discrimination with a heightened risk of underweight and premature infants. Maternal death rates among Black and Indigenous women in the United States are two to three times higher… read on > read on >
All Lifestyle:
Your Dog’s Gut Microbes Change Quickly With New Diet
Switching Fido to a new dog food? What happens in his gut as a result is nothing short of remarkable, a new study reveals. The population of bacteria living in his gut — his microbiome — will change dramatically in as little as a week. It starts when “wallflower bacteria,” those that were on the… read on > read on >
Hearing Loss, Tinnitus Can Strike Cancer Survivors
People who’ve had chemotherapy to treat a range of common cancers should also have a hearing test. In a new study of 273 cancer survivors, researchers found more than half experienced significant hearing loss even if they didn’t realize it. “While hearing loss associated with the administration of platinum drugs was reported in adults with… read on > read on >
There’s Stress, and Then There’s ‘Good Stress’
A tight deadline at work. A tough exam at school. A big vacation that requires tons of planning. A home repair that’s gone awry. These sources of stress are anything but pleasant, but a new study suggests that they might actually be good for your mental health in the long run. Low to moderate amounts… read on > read on >
Gout Flare-Ups Could Raise Heart Risk for Weeks After
When gout flares up, the joint pain is often excruciating. But that’s not the only worry tied to this common inflammatory arthritic condition. A new British study warns that gout flares double the risk for heart attack or stroke over the two months that follow. A spike in risk endures even three to four months… read on > read on >
8/8 — Could Quit-Smoking Meds Help You Quit Drinking, Too?
Pills, patches, gums, nasal sprays and lozenges used to help smokers kick the habit can also help heavy drinkers cut back on alcohol, a new study suggests. The finding follows several months spent working with 400 smokers with HIV who were also heavy drinkers. Researchers determined that both the prescription smoking cessation medication varenicline (Chantix)… read on > read on >
Just 8% of Americans Lack Health Insurance, a Record Low
The number of Americans without health insurance continues to drop, reaching 8% in 2022 — a record low. That leaves about 26 million people living in America without health insurance. The announcement was made Tuesday by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “Every American has the right to the peace of mind that… read on > read on >
COVID Rebound Not Limited to Those Who Took Paxlovid
COVID rebound, which struck both President Joe Biden and White House Chief Medical Advisor Dr. Anthony Fauci recently, doesn’t just happen in those who take Paxlovid, a new study finds. Rebound symptoms were spotted in 27% of COVID-19 patients who hadn’t taken the antiviral pill, with about 12% testing positive again, researchers report. “It happens… read on > read on >
Neighborhood May Affect a Couple’s Odds of Conceiving
Where you live may affect your fertility, a new study suggests. People who live in economically deprived neighborhoods are about 20% less likely to conceive, compared to people from areas with more resources, researchers said. Investments in deprived neighborhoods that address economic disparities may improve fertility in those areas, according to the authors, who researched… read on > read on >
Race Plays Role in How Soon Babies With Cystic Fibrosis Get Care
Babies who are white appear to get diagnostic appointments for cystic fibrosis earlier than babies of several other races and ethnicities, new research shows. This can cause gaps in care and outcomes. While it is recommended that infants who have an initial positive screening for cystic fibrosis be further evaluated by 28 days of age,… read on > read on >