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Whooping Cough Cases Surge Across the U.S.: What You Need to Know
Whooping cough cases are now three times higher than the number reported during the same period in 2023. Experts say lower vaccination rates and post-pandemic exposures may have contributed to the surge. Although the vaccine's effectiveness declines over time, experts recommend staying up to date with vaccinations to reduce disease...
This Viral Mental Exercise Could Help You Fall Asleep Quickly
TikTok is full of sleep hacks that users say have changed their lives. One of the latest trends gaining traction is “cognitive shuffling.”. A doctor on TikTok recently shared a video explaining the technique, describing it as a “simple mental exercise” that improved his sleep. Cognitive shuffling...
These Medicare 2025 Changes Could Save You Money
Medicare beneficiaries can save money and improve benefits by reviewing their plan options during open enrollment each year. Starting in 2025, out-of-pocket prescription drug costs will be capped at $2,000 annually. Medicare will offer up to $2,500 annually for dementia-related respite care through a new program, GUIDE. Medicare beneficiaries who...
This Is How Much Sleep You Really Need When You're Older
Older adults still need 7–9 hours of sleep per night, similar to younger adults, but their sleep often becomes lighter and more fragmented. Poor sleep in older adults is linked to increased risks of cognitive decline, depression, and poorer cardiometabolic health. Maintaining good sleep hygiene—including consistent sleep schedules, a...
These 3 Hidden Senses May Affect You Differently If You’re Neurodivergent
Everyone has five senses—sight, taste, touch, smell, and hearing—but we also have three “hidden senses” that help us navigate the world and stay safe; these affect our balance and help us stay well-regulated, among other things. But some neurodivergent people are hyposensitive or hypersensitive to their...
Sleeping With T-Rex Arms: How to Manage Wrist Pain and Discomfort
Neurodivergent individuals often adopt “T-rex arms” as a self-soothing position, social media users say. Sleeping with bent wrists can lead to pain or numbness due to compression of nerves and tendons in the wrist and elbow. Stretching before bed and using a body pillow may help prevent discomfort...
Cobenfy: The First New Schizophrenia Drug in Decades
The FDA has approved Cobenfy, the first new schizophrenia treatment in over 30 years. Cobenfy helps reduce both positive and negative schizophrenia symptoms, with side effects compared to current medications. Clinical trials for Cobenfy showed no significant weight gain or treatment discontinuation, but long-term effectiveness remains uncertain due to short...
Why Is Ozempic So Expensive? Novo Nordisk Blames Prescription Drug Middlemen
A U.S. Senate panel criticized Novo Nordisk for the high prices of Ozempic and Wegovy. Novo Nordisk CEO blamed high prices on industry middlemen known as pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), saying that these intermediaries have the power to remove drugs from their formularies in response to a price cut. Senator...
These 7 Habits Could Signal You’re Neurodivergent
Many people who are neurodivergent report they engage in body-focused repetitive behaviors (BRFBs), such as skin picking, nail biting, or hair pulling. Though these can’t be described as “symptoms” of being neurodivergent, they could help someone determine whether or not they self-identify as neurodivergent. If BRFBs negatively...
You Can Soon Give Yourself a Flu Nasal Spray Vaccine at Home
The FDA has approved FluMist, a nasal spray flu vaccine, for self-administration. Healthy individuals aged 2 to 49 can use FluMist, but people with specific medical conditions or health concerns should consult a healthcare provider before use. The effectiveness of FluMist is similar to the traditional flu shot and protects...
Is It time to Add Cancer-Specific Warning Labels to Alcohol?
Alcohol consumption is linked to six types of cancer, including breast and liver cancers, yet awareness of this connection remains low. Stronger warning labels on alcohol could help reduce alcohol-related cancer risks, researchers say. Public health messaging around alcohol is complex due to varying risk levels and lingering perceptions of...
FDA Clears the First Implantable Continuous Glucose Monitor That Can Last a Year
The FDA has cleared the implantable Eversense 365 CGM, which can last up to a year without replacement. The device requires only weekly fingerstick calibrations after the initial two weeks, offering more convenience than other CGMs. Eversense 365 is expected to be widely covered by commercial insurance and will launch...
What You Need to Know About the New Self-Collection HPV Tests
Two new HPV tests allow people to collect their own samples in a healthcare facility rather than undergo a traditional test involving a speculum. The tests could improve access to screening for people who are unwilling or unable to get routine pelvic exams. Experts say people who can visit a...
Weighted High Knees Can Help Improve Balance and Strength as You Age
High knees with weights can help improve balance, strength, and coordination in older adults. Balance exercises like high knees become more important as you age. Practicing high knees without weights first ensures proper form and full range of motion before adding resistance for more advanced training. Weighted high knees might...
New COVID Variant XEC Is Spreading in Europe. Here's What You Need to Know
The new COVID-19 variant XEC is spreading quickly in Europe and may soon become the dominant variant worldwide. XEC is a recombinant variant made up of two JN.1-related strains. A CDC spokesperson said the current COVID-19 vaccines are expected to provide some protection against XEC and other circulating variants. A...
Drinking Soda Might Make Period Cramps Worse. Here’s Why
Drinking soda may increase the likelihood of experiencing menstrual cramps by 24%, a new study suggests. Experts say that caffeine and sugar in soda could contribute to menstrual cramps by causing vasoconstriction and increasing inflammation. Coffee was associated with a lower chance of menstrual cramps in the same study. Drinking...
Novo Nordisk's Experimental Oral Drug Reports 'Remarkable' Weight Loss, Early Data Shows
In a phase 1 trial, Novo Nordisk's experimental obesity drug amycretin led to up to 13% weight loss in just three months. Amycretin targets GLP-1 receptors and a second hormone called amylin. Amylin appears to act in the brain, rather than in the gut. It’s possible that amylin can control...
The 5 Best NAD+ Supplements for Optimal Aging, According to Dietitians
These supplements can raise your NAD+ levels to counter the negative effects of aging. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is crucial for energy production, DNA repair, and cellular health. The easiest way to boost NAD+ is to take a nicotinamide riboside (NR) supplement. NAD+ can be supplemented intravenously with an injection, but NR is a precursor to NAD+, available as an oral supplement, and effectively raises NAD+ levels in the body—no injections required.
Hormone Therapy for Menopause Linked to Slower Biological Aging, Study Shows
A new observational study linked hormone therapy to slower biological aging in women who started the treatment after age 55 or used it for four to eight years. Hormone therapy helps relieve menopause symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness. Current U.S. guidelines recommend against using hormone therapy to prevent...
What Is Shilajit? TikTok Claims This Viral Black Goo Can Boost Collagen and Testosterone
Shilajit may offer health benefits like increased collagen and testosterone, though studies are small and often funded by supplement companies. Some research suggests shilajit could aid in workout recovery and reduce inflammation. Unpurified shilajit may contain harmful heavy metals. Experts say to look for third-party verification to ensure product safety.
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