What the sitting-rising test says about your health

The sitting-rising test gauges how easily people can rise to their feet from sitting on the floor, using as little support as possible. A 2025 study suggested the test may help predict someone’s longevity. People who scored the lowest were nearly four times more likely to die of natural causes and six times more likely to die of cardiovascular causes than participants who scored a perfect 10 on the test. The movement requires strength, coordination, balance, and flexibility. These components of fitness tend to drop off more precipitously in women as we age.

Content restricted. Requires subscription

Peace of mind, or panic?

The vast majority of older adults would want to know if they’re in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease and would want a blood test to learn for certain, according to a 2025 poll. Advances in testing and treatment may fuel this desire for knowledge. There are pros and cons to knowing this information. People with an early Alzheimer’s diagnosis can plan ahead, seek support, and may feel motivated to maintain their health. But the diagnosis may jeopardize their job or insurance coverage, as well as trigger anxiety or depression.

Content restricted. Requires subscription

Shake the salt habit

Salt intake fuels high blood pressure, which is the top risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Sodium is hidden in many everyday foods, including bread, sauces, condiments, cereal, rice, pasta, and processed items such as canned soups, deli meats, and frozen meals. People can cut back on salt by reading food labels, rinsing canned goods, cooking at home more often, and using other seasonings instead.

Content restricted. Requires subscription

Is it normal for my joints to click?

There are many normal reasons people’s joints make clicking, popping, cracking, or other noises. Joints are also more likely to make noise when people stay still for long periods. Pain or swelling with joint noise should prompt people to see a doctor.

Content restricted. Requires subscription

What raises your risk for gynecologic cancer?

Gynecologic cancers, which affect the ovaries, uterus, cervix, vagina, or vulva, are less common than breast cancer. Women can guard against these cancers by learning the risk factors for each type, which include obesity, exposure to human papillomavirus, and smoking. Women should also continue pelvic exams and cervical cancer screenings after a hysterectomy or menopause, as well as watch for unusual symptoms. Women with a strong family history of gynecologic or certain other cancers should consider genetic testing.

Content restricted. Requires subscription

Managing chronic back pain

Chronic back pain (pain that lasts more than 12 weeks) can be more challenging to diagnose and treat compared to short-term pain from an injury. The first-line approach is conservative treatment, such as over-the-counter pain medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes. However, sometimes these are not enough, and advanced methods are needed. Depending on the source of chronic back pain, these can include stronger prescription medication, corticosteroid injections, and surgery.

Content restricted. Requires subscription