Cancer-causing human papillomavirus (HPV) is considered a sexually transmitted infection, but a new study shows that many babies are born carrying the virus in their mouths. “In brief, HPV infection can be acquired at early age or even at birth,” said lead researcher Dr. Stina Syrjanen, head of oral pathology and oral radiology with the…  read on >  read on >

Any American will be able to get a coronavirus vaccine by April, the nation’s leading infectious diseases expert predicted Thursday. During an interview on the “Today Show,” Dr. Anthony Fauci said that month will be “open season” for vaccinations, as increased supplies of the vaccines will allow most people to get shots to protect against…  read on >  read on >

Certain genetic factors in people with Down syndrome may increase their COVID-19 risks. Previous studies have found that people with Down syndrome are 10 times more likely to die from COVID-19, and experts have said they should be among those given priority for vaccination. In this new study, Spanish researchers examined genetic differences in people…  read on >  read on >

Getting a colonoscopy as soon as possible after an abnormal stool test could reduce your risk of colon cancer and death from the disease, researchers say. In a new study, investigators analyzed data from more than 200,000 U.S. veterans, aged 50 to 75, who had an abnormal fecal immunochemical test (FIT) or fecal occult blood…  read on >  read on >

An inner-ear implant may help people with a debilitating balance disorder get steady on their feet again, an early study suggests. The study involved eight patients with bilateral vestibular hypofunction (BVH). The disorder arises from a problem in the balance system of both inner ears, leading to chronic dizziness and instability when standing or walking.…  read on >  read on >

As the United States enters a critical phase of its national coronavirus vaccination campaign, a new poll shows that two-thirds of Americans are frustrated with how hard it is to get immunized against COVID-19. The Gallup Poll, released Wednesday morning, comes as health officials across the country are desperately juggling precious vaccine doses so they…  read on >  read on >

A lack of ICU beds and other resources was linked to a higher rate of deaths among hospitalized COVID-19 patients in the early stages of the pandemic in the United States, researchers say. The investigators analyzed data collected from more than 4,400 hospitals nationwide from March 1 to July 26, 2020, and found that fewer…  read on >  read on >