Health news, medical discoveries and wellness tips
Researchers have pinpointed the elusive stem cells responsible for forming tendons and ligaments. Their study reveals these cells become hyperactive in lumbar spinal stenosis, contributing to nerve compression. This discovery opens avenues for new therapies, potentially repurposing existing high blood pressure medications.
New research reveals inhibitory neurons can act as a brake on adult glioma growth by suppressing calcium activity within tumor cells. This finding offers a novel perspective on the brain's role in cancer progression and suggests potential new therapeutic avenues.
Prostate cancer remains a significant health concern, but advancements in screening are improving early detection and patient care. The PSA test is re-established as a baseline, with new biomarkers and MRI technology reducing the need for invasive biopsies. Personalized screening schedules and active surveillance options offer better outcomes.
A Stanford professor, diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer, shares his journey through a new era of personalized treatments. Despite facing insurance hurdles and disease progression, advances in targeted therapies and mRNA vaccines offer unprecedented hope, shifting lung cancer towards a manageable chronic condition.
NPR's exploration into the impact of small acts of kindness reveals a wealth of reader-submitted stories. These anecdotes highlight how brief interactions with strangers significantly boost mood, reduce isolation, and strengthen community bonds, proving kindness is alive and well.
A comprehensive study of school-aged children conceived via Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) found largely reassuring long-term health outcomes, comparable to naturally conceived peers in most areas. However, a significantly higher incidence of abnormal eye movements was observed in the ART group, prompting calls for increased monitoring.
New research reveals microplastics act as dynamic vectors, transporting toxins and antibiotic resistance genes across ecosystems. A review in Energy & Environment Nexus outlines a framework to assess risks posed by these 'pollutant shuttles'.
A popular frozen berry blend sold at Walmart has been recalled across 16 states due to its connection to an ongoing E. coli outbreak. While no illnesses have been directly linked to this specific product, the recall is a precautionary measure following investigations into E. coli cases that have led to six hospitalizations.
A new study published in JAMA Health Forum suggests that warning labels on social media platforms could significantly reduce teen and young adult usage. Researchers found that messages highlighting mental health harms were particularly effective.