As if the news on vaping wasn’t bad enough, a new study suggests that e-cigarette users are also at significantly higher risk of chronic lung diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and COPD. Those risks rose even higher if vapers also smoked tobacco, researchers said. “What we found is that for e-cigarette users, the odds…  read on >

With the arrival of winter, it’s time for skiing, sledding and ice skating, but it’s also when snow blindness can strike. Snow blindness is like a sunburn in the eyes. It’s caused by the same UV rays that give you that summer tan. In the case of snow blindness, the rays are reflected off the…  read on >

Keep the holidays happy, healthy and safe by following a few guidelines, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says. “With a thoughtful approach, families can avoid some of the holiday frenzy, and focus on what is meaningful to them,” said Dr. Benjamin Hoffman, chair of the AAP’s Council on Injury, Violence, and Poison Prevention. “We…  read on >

Makeup is a daily staple for most women, but new research finds that 9 of 10 beauty products may harbor superbugs after they’re opened. Beauty blenders (sponges used to apply foundation or other products to the face), mascara and lip gloss get contaminated with antibiotic-resistant bacteria such as E. coli and staph because most aren’t…  read on >

If you are pregnant and live in a rural area of the United States, new research shows that you’re at higher risk of life-threatening complications or death during or after childbirth. “Our study suggests that geographic disparities may put rural women at an increased risk of requiring lifesaving interventions during or immediately after delivering a…  read on >

If you can tackle a tough workout, that may bode well for your longevity, new research suggests. A woman’s risk of dying from heart disease, cancer or other causes is much lower if she can engage in vigorous exercise, scientists report. The new study included more than 4,700 middle-aged and older women, average age 64,…  read on >

When people are breathing cleaner air, their health generally improves — rapidly, in some cases, a new review shows. The report, from the Environmental Committee of the Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS), details some of the evidence on air quality and human health. Overall, it concludes, people can reap a range of benefits when…  read on >

Arguing with a partner or feeling anxious about meeting the in-laws can induce stress. When these strains are intense or prolonged, your heart can suffer, says Johns Hopkins Medicine. The school mentions these healthier ways to deal with relationship stress: Discuss life stresses with your doctor. Check if your coping strategies are healthy. Find stress…  read on >

A small, preliminary study suggests that a brain area called the hypothalamus appears to be about 6% smaller in women who use birth control pills. But exactly what that means isn’t yet clear. In this study, women on the pill had statistically significant increases in anger. Researchers also found a possible link with depression symptoms.…  read on >

Breathing exercises can help you relax and manage stress, says the Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine. The center suggests using the 4-7-8 breath exercise: Exhale completely through your mouth. Close your mouth and inhale through your nose to a mental count of 4. Hold your breath for a count of 7. Exhale through your mouth…  read on >