A new test for chlamydia can provide results within 30 minutes, potentially speeding up the start of treatment, researchers say. The rapid test for the sexually transmitted disease (STD) means patients can receive treatment immediately, instead of having to wait for a follow-up appointment. This could help reduce the spread of the disease, according to…  read on >

Living in a neighborhood with lots of greenery just might protect your ticker. “Our study shows that living in a neighborhood dense with trees, bushes and other green vegetation may be good for the health of your heart and blood vessels,” said study author Aruni Bhatnagar, director of the University of Louisville’s Diabetes and Obesity…  read on >

With so much emphasis on fresh, farm-to-table foods, it’s easy to overlook the value of canned items. These are convenient, often cheaper alternatives to fresh and frozen. Use these tips to help you choose wisely. When shopping, look for cans in good shape. Don’t buy — or keep — cans that are dented, rusted or…  read on >

If you fill your home with plenty of reading material and read often to your kids, you are more likely to raise children with an enthusiasm for reading, the Nemours Foundation says. Nemours suggests how to create a reading-friendly home: Have a wide variety of reading materials readily available, including magazines, books and comic books.…  read on >

Exposure to chemicals found in a wide array of personal care products has been linked to early puberty among girls, a new investigation warns. The issue centers on specific chemicals including phthalates, parabens and phenols. They’re found in an array of products, including perfumes, soaps, shampoos, nail polish, cosmetics, toothpaste, lipstick, hairsprays and skin lotions…  read on >

There’s an adjustment period for almost every new college student — many young people have struggles balancing independence and a heavy workload. But there are some signs that suggest your young person needs more serious help than a care package from home. Some problems are temporary, like anxiety and stress, which affect huge numbers of…  read on >

If you’re shopping for toys this holiday season, make sure some simple, old-fashioned items are on your list, pediatricians say. In a new report, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is making recommendations on the best toys to buy for babies and young children. The bottom line: The traditional beats the digital. “This report is…  read on >

More than 15 million homes in the United States get their water from private wells, according to federal estimates. While the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulates public drinking water, people with private wells need to check their water themselves, along with other maintenance steps. This is especially important if you’re thinking about having a baby.…  read on >

If you bicker a lot with your spouse, it could be because you’re running low on energy. Low energy translates to less self-control and a greater chance of aggression. The good news: A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that a steady blood glucose level can translate into fewer…  read on >