The medical conditions we now call “autism spectrum disorders” were first identified and labeled in the late 1930s. This group of disorders result in communication difficulties, repetitive behaviors, sensory issues, and problems with social interaction. The medical community’s understanding of these disorders and the best ways to treat them is constantly evolving. [Read more…]
What We Know About The Measles Comback
The measles is back. This viral illness – one of the most contagious known – can cause serious complications and death among young children. Although eradicated in the U.S. in the year 2000, it has been staging a steady comeback. [Read more…]
The Evidence on Giving Thanks
Millions of people will gather with family and friends this week to celebrate what may be one of the most quintessential American holidays – Thanksgiving.
As its name implies, Thanksgiving is all about giving thanks – or showing appreciation or gratitude. It turns out there is a significant body of scientific literature demonstrating that thankfulness. [Read more…]
Urging a Healthier Choice? Use Motivational Interviewing
Most of us have had periods of our lives when we did not make the healthiest choices. Maybe you needed to lose weight, or your cholesterol was too high. Maybe you went through a stressful period when you drank too much, smoked cigarettes, or didn’t get enough sleep. [Read more…]
The Evidence on Medical Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
As scary as it is to think about, we know that all people make mistakes, including the health care professionals who work in hospitals and doctors’ offices. Furthermore, our health care system is complicated, leading to glitches that can harm patients. As a result, patients sometimes experience injuries, complications and even death as a result of the care they receive. [Read more…]
Paying Smokers to Quit Really Works
Smoking is bad for you – that’s common knowledge. Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable disease, disability and death in the United States, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. [Read more…]
Reversing Climate Change Starts with You
As our global temperature continues to rise, government officials from across the globe continue to develop plans that will lower carbon emissions and ultimately stall the rising temperatures. (2018 was the 42nd consecutive year that the global temperature was above average, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.) [Read more…]
Should You Wear Sunscreen?
If you follow health and wellness news, you have probably seen the building hype this year about sunscreen. Popular news outlets have been questioning if the ingredients in sunscreen pose health threats. One even questions whether sunscreen is the new margarine? (Many margarines – developed to encourage people to avoid the saturated fats in butter – contain transfats, which turn out to be more unhealthy than butter.) [Read more…]
Can Money Buy Happiness?
Many Americans are plagued by the “if-only” syndrome. Data show that most people believe if they could only get a raise, a new house, a new car, or some other material possession, they would finally be happy. Not surprisingly, studies demonstrate that buying things does not lead to happiness. [Read more…]
Exploring the Link Between Health and Happiness
It’s common sense that it’s difficult to feel happy when you are seriously ill. But do feelings of happiness help to prevent people from becoming sick, or help them to get better quicker? [Read more…]
If you follow news about nutrition, you’ve likely heard the recommendations to avoid eating red and processed meats including beef, sausages and deli meats.