When planning your Fourth of July outing, remember sun protection for youngsters. “It is imperative for parents to protect their children from the harmful effects of extreme sun exposure,” said Dr. Alberto Pappo, director of the Solid Tumor Division at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tenn. Kids are not immune from cancer just…  read on >

During the summer when people trade in their jackets and jeans for flip flops and bathing suits, more skin is exposed to the sun’s harmful UV rays. Dr. Katherine Gordon, assistant professor of dermatology at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, said summer is the perfect time for people to get in the habit of…  read on >

Sticking with one primary care doctor may help you stay healthy and extend your life, according to a new British study. Researchers reviewed 22 studies from nine countries with different cultures and health systems. Of those, 18 concluded that staying with the same doctor over time significantly reduced early deaths, compared with switching doctors. “Currently,…  read on >

The genes that make Fido your best friend are being uncovered by researchers. The investigators compared the DNA of modern dogs, ancient dogs and wolves. That comparison found something odd: Sometimes, the DNA of modern dogs didn’t match that from ancient canines. “We convinced ourselves that previous studies found many genes not associated with being…  read on >

Dairy products are a great source of calcium, vitamin D and other nutrients that help promote bone growth. The U.S. National Institutes of Health says most people in the United States aren’t getting the calcium they need for the heart, muscles, nerves and bones. The agency suggests: Drink low-fat or fat-free milk. Have milk with…  read on >

Has that week-old yogurt really gone bad? Did the chicken you bought just three days ago already spoil? Your smartphone might one day be able to tell you, new research suggests. A group of scientists is developing a portable, inexpensive and easy-to-use electronic tag to send wireless alerts to smartphones when a telltale gas is…  read on >

Feeling like you’re getting a sunburn? Get out of the sun quickly and begin treating your skin, the American Academy of Dermatology advises. The burn eventually will heal, but getting a burn because you forgot to apply sunscreen or simply stayed under the sun’s rays too long increases your chances of developing skin cancer. The…  read on >

Losing weight and keeping it off comes down to making permanent changes in the way you eat. Although many eating habits are formed in childhood, it’s never too late to improve. But you’ll need to reinforce them until they become second nature. One high-tech way is with diet apps that send you motivational text messages…  read on >

Insomnia affects up to 15 percent of Americans, but sleeping pills aren’t the only — or the best — answer. A good sleep routine, exercise and mindfulness are all options to get the restorative sleep you need. Set up a daily sleep pattern by going to bed at the same time each night and waking…  read on >

Heartworm is a deadly disease that can strike your dog, cat or ferret after the bite of an infected mosquito. The good news is that it’s preventable with medication. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration suggests giving your pet heartworm medicine year-round. The FDA also recommends that you: Talk to your veterinarian about testing your…  read on >