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The Federal Trade Commission called on companies to issue refunds to people who purchased anti-aging products due to unsubstantiated marketing claims.
A study found that women who regularly dine alone may be at elevated risk for heart disease, possibly because they were found to have less nutritional knowledge and ate less nutritious meals.
A large number of apps and computer programs claim to help keep the mind sharp and improve memory. Since there is limited evidence that these programs bring cognitive benefits, be skeptical of these claims and choose the ones that you enjoy. Meanwhile, practice proven brain-protecting strategies such as staying physically active, eating a healthy diet, socializing, and avoiding brain-harming habits such as drinking excess alcohol, getting too little sleep, and using illegal drugs.
Certain devices that use magnetic chargers may interfere with cardiac devices such as pacemakers. A doctor should advise people on which ones to avoid or to use caution when operating.
Most people don’t benefit from colonoscopies after age 75, but before stopping they should have a discussion with their doctor.
Research shows that a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, such as fruits and vegetables, healthy oils, and whole grains, may help prevent some joint problems, such as gout or even osteoarthritis. The benefit is less pronounced if a person has joint problems already. Diet cannot reverse joint problems completely, but it may help with disease management in combination with other treatments.
A test called a coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan uses a special type of x-ray to look for plaque in the arteries of the heart, which raises the risk of heart-related problems. While CAC scans can be valuable for detecting people at higher risk of heart problems from plaque buildup, this test isn’t right for everyone. It’s typically most useful for people who don’t yet have symptoms of heart disease, but who do have some risk factors. Determining how much plaque is in the arteries can help guide decision making about preventive strategies. The test is less useful for people at very low or very high risk for heart disease.
Men are less likely than women to get regular exams and tests, especially when they are younger. But as they age, routine screenings are essential. There are certain tests most men should have at some point, including ones for colon cancer, high blood pressure, hepatitis C, diabetes, and HIV. Other tests men should consider if they are at high risk for specific ailments, such as abdominal aortic aneurysm, hepatitis B, and lung cancer.
Yawning remains a mysterious and complex action that serves an uncertain purpose. While yawning is associated with sleepiness, scientists haven’t found that it indicates a need for sleep, however, it could lead to an increased level of alertness.
Many cancers might be avoided if people did at least five hours of moderate-intensity exercise per week like brisk walking, biking riding, and water aerobics.