Preventive health screening tests marketed directly to the public are often unnecessary and carry hidden risks. The best way to decide if screening tests are warranted is to have a discussion with a primary care doctor.
Taking aspirin regularly may reduce risk of colon cancer but also increases risk of internal bleeding. It is not possible yet to routinely determine who would be helped more than harmed by taking aspirin for colon cancer prevention.
Osteoarthritis in the hands is treated primarily with medication, but seeing a certified hand therapist can also be very helpful for minimizing pain and remaining functional. Surgery is an option when conservative measures fall short.
In people with high blood pressure who are at highest risk of heart attack and other cardiovascular problems, taking medication has nearly three times the impact as in those at low risk, according to a study.
A high-dose version of the flu vaccine protected older people from influenza infection better than the normal-dose version, according to a study.
Many studies link light to moderate drinking (up to two standard alcoholic drinks per day for a man) to better health, but the science remains uncertain. Older men might consider limiting themselves to one drink per day.
The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia with Lewy bodies overlap substantially, but some symptoms point more strongly to the latter kind of dementia. Treatment focuses on controlling the symptoms.
Having a vasectomy is associated with a slightly higher chance of aggressive prostate cancer, according to a study.
A study found that compared with not running at all, even five to 10 minutes a day of low-intensity running may be enough exercise to extend life if performed regularly and long-term.
A new concept of successful aging includes more than just freedom from major chronic illnesses like heart disease and cancer. It also means freedom from disability. Certain lifestyle measures make a person more likely to achieve successful aging.