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A 2026 study found that larger waist measurements increased heart disease–related risks, even among people with normal weight. Obesity with a small waist conferred no greater risks compared to people with normal weight and a small waist.
Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer death, but early screening can detect it while it’s treatable, curable, and even preventable. A 2026 study found that use of an at-home stool test was linked to as much as a 43% reduction in colorectal cancer deaths.
Tai chi walking is an accessible introduction to tai chi. The process of slowing down steps, shifting weight deliberately, and focusing on breathing may improve balance, gait, mindfulness, and lower-leg strength.
People with type 2 diabetes or who have a high BMI with a metabolic risk factor (such as a large belly, abnormal lipid levels, or high blood pressure) should be screened for metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease, a form of fatty liver disease.
Vascular dementia, which results from brain cell damage due to reduced blood flow, can cause slowed thinking, confusion, and other cognitive changes. Carefully controlling risk factors for cardiovascular disease may help prevent vascular dementia.
Epigenetics is the study of how behavior, the environment, and other factors can trigger chemical changes to DNA or nearby proteins that affect how genes work. Collectively, these changes (known as epigenetic marks) may provide clues about health and longevity.
Open-heart surgery leaves people with a long chest incision and a lengthy recovery. Most of the precautions that people must follow during the first four to six weeks after surgery are to protect the incision and the breastbone while they heal.
Labile hypertension refers to blood pressure that fluctuates more dramatically than usual. Possible contributors to blood pressure elevations include stress, diet, and medication. Deep sleep and very warm weather can cause blood pressure dips.
“Anti-nutrients” like oxalates, lectins, and phytates are found in leafy greens, beans, and grains. They can slightly reduce absorption of some minerals, but aren’t reasons for most people to avoid these healthy foods. Food preparation and meal planning can help minimize such effects.
The MIND diet combines Mediterranean and DASH diet principles with an added emphasis on brain-healthy foods like leafy greens, whole grains, and fish. Linked in some studies with slower cognitive decline and lower dementia risk, it’s a flexible eating pattern with benefits at any age.