The brutal flu season continues to ease its grip on the United States, with the latest government data showing that doctor visits are still dropping and less severe strains of the flu are starting to account for more infections. But hospitalizations for flu are still rising, as are pediatric deaths. For the third week in… read on >
American soldiers who have babies after a recent deployment are at increased risk of preterm birth, a new study suggests. The finding comes from the analysis of data on nearly 12,900 births to U.S. soldiers from 2011 to 2014. Overall, just over 6 percent of the births were premature — three or more weeks early.… read on >
If you’re pregnant and want to exercise in warm weather or take hot baths or short saunas, that’s safe, according to new research. Australian researchers said that doing so — within limits — should not raise your body temperature to a point that would put your baby at risk. The findings come from an analysis… read on >
High school is a major milestone in a teen’s life. And, while kids want their independence, it’s important to stay involved at this crucial juncture, say experts from the University of Pittsburgh. The reason: good parenting has academic, behavioral and emotional benefits for teens. But what might need to change is how you “parent.” The… read on >
Teens who develop a negative body image and act on those feelings may wind up stunting their social, physical and mental growth, the U.S. Office on Women’s Health says. Parents can promote a positive body image among their teens, foremost, by being positive role models, the agency says. That means eating a healthy diet and… read on >
Though the dangers of smoking during pregnancy to both mother and baby are well-known, just over 7 percent of women still light up while pregnant, a new government report shows. Younger and less educated moms-to-be were the most likely to continue puffing on cigarettes while pregnant, according to the National Center for Health Statistics, part… read on >
Teaching kids about telling the truth is a critical life lesson. And your approach can determine how motivated your kids are to be honest. Younger children are more likely to tell the truth because they want to please you; older ones understand that it’s the right thing to do. Older kids also are less motivated… read on >
Being a good student in high school seems to translate into a better job and higher pay down the road, a new study suggests. “Our research found that specific behaviors in high school have long-lasting effects for one’s later life,” said study lead author Marion Spengler. Those behaviors and achievements included being a responsible student,… read on >
If you’re unlucky enough to come down with the flu, you can blame your own body for your fever, cough, muscle aches and head-to-toe distress, experts say. Most of influenza’s misery is caused by the human body itself, or more precisely the immune system’s response to the virus. “Many of the things that feel bad… read on >
Parents and caregivers can pass cavity-causing bacteria to babies through saliva, by sharing foods and spoons. Or tooth decay can develop when an infant’s teeth and gums are exposed to any liquid or food other than water for long periods, including when a baby is repeatedly put to bed with a bottle of formula, milk… read on >
