Could a quick-dissolving pill placed in the rectum prove to be an effective and safe “on-demand” way to prevent HIV infection among sexually active men and women? It might, new research indicates. The experimental form of PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is designed to be placed directly into either the rectum or the vagina. In the new…  read on >  read on >

Combining breathing exercises with gradual aerobic activity may benefit teens who are recovering slowly from a concussion. New research found that while the two therapies each offer benefits, together they led to even greater improvement in thinking and memory skills, depression and mood. The findings are scheduled for presentation in Boston and online at the…  read on >  read on >

About 44% of U.S. middle and high schools have student-run clubs that shine a light on issues that touch the lives of LGBTQ+ students. And new research suggests that depression risk among LGBTQ+ students is considerably lower in those schools where such Gender-Sexuality Alliances (GSAs), similar to Gay-Straight Alliances, are present and relatively active. “Depression…  read on >  read on >

The naked mole-rat is unusual among mammals for many reasons, not least because these rodents remain fertile throughout their decades-long life span. Researchers think the reasons behind that lifelong fertility could eventually point the way to new therapies for human couples struggling to have a baby. “Naked mole-rats are the weirdest mammals,” said lead researcher…  read on >  read on >

Parents are role models who can teach their kids about healthy food and exercise habits in childhood to help avoid future health problems. “Children who are overweight are more likely to develop diabetes, experience feelings of isolation and struggle with self-esteem,” said Dr. Asma Khan, a pediatrician at OSF HealthCare in Rockland, Ill. Khan offered…  read on >  read on >

For reasons that can’t always be explained, some women experience pain in their external genital area. Called vulvodynia, this term encompasses everything from localized pain at a specific spot, such as on the outer or inner labia, for example, to pain throughout the area. It might feel like burning, aching, rawness, swelling or just irritation,…  read on >  read on >

It’s not always necessary to lower a child’s fever, but parents often do. A new poll from Michigan Medicine found that about one-third of parents reach for fever-reducing medicines too quickly. “Often parents worry about their child having a fever and want to do all they can to reduce their temperature. However, they may not…  read on >  read on >

Spring sports season will be here soon, so it’s time to get kids ready after a winter break. Sports can teach valuable lessons, including teamwork, good sportsmanship, good communication, preparing for success, handling a loss, time management and the importance of doing your best, according to Henry Ford Health System in Detroit. Pediatrician Dr. Stacy…  read on >  read on >

Researchers may have found a way for coffee-lovers to cut back without suffering symptoms of caffeine withdrawal like headache, fatigue, bad mood and irritability. It’s a cup of decaf. A new study found that people experienced fewer withdrawal symptoms with the substitute. “A convincing cup of decaf has the power to reduce withdrawal symptoms a…  read on >  read on >