The medical view of atherosclerosis is changing from the traditional one of arteries blocked by plaque to a more encompassing one, with inflammation as the main cause and an emphasis on stopping it before it even starts.
A study of menopausal women found that they experienced hot flashes for an average of more than five years, much longer than had been previously thought.
This special section highlights the relationships between the heart and many other parts of the body.
Certain inherited genetic conditions increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, so having a genetic test may show whether a person is at risk for heart disease, especially if a family member has one of the conditions.
An increasing waistline in middle age could be an indicator of metabolic syndrome, which is a group of risk factors that often leads to heart disease or diabetes.
Although osteoporosis is thought of as a woman’s disease, millions of men are at risk as well. While genetic factors and aging are beyond control, other risk factors, such as lifestyle, diet, hormones, and medications, can be controlled or changed.
The best candidates for prostate cancer surgery are younger men who are otherwise healthy and do not have other conditions or diseases that might shorten their life span.
Splitting pills is a sensible way to save money on medications, though certain pills are easier to split than others, and not all pills should be split.
Early studies have suggested that grape juice may provide some of the same heart-protective benefits as red wine, but much more research is needed.
Insomnia is a troubling condition, but it can be addressed through behavioral changes and by practicing better sleep habits. Medication may be helpful in the short term, but proper nutrition, regular exercise, and minimizing stress are preferable.