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Not all cases of gallstones need treatment. Many people have gallstones that never cause pain or other symptoms and can be left alone. But if gallstones cause persistent pain or other symptoms, doctors often opt to surgically remove the gallbladder.
A 2026 study suggested that women who consistently stay active throughout middle age have a significantly lower risk of dying early than peers who are inactive.
A 2026 study suggested that getting a high-dose flu shot may reduce older adults’ risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease compared with a standard-dose flu shot.
A 2026 study suggested that people who eat healthier plant-based diets, which prioritize whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes, have a lower risk of developing dementia than people who eat a plant-based diet that includes more refined grains, fruit juices, and added sugars.
About 70% of the sodium in the American diet comes from processed, packaged, and restaurant foods. Checking labels and making smart swaps when shopping and dining out can help people consume less sodium and, perhaps, prevent cardiovascular disease and related deaths.
The latest diabetes guidelines now recommend continuous glucose monitors for many people with type 2 diabetes. The real-time data from these devices may help reduce heart-related risks in people with diabetes by helping to reduce blood sugar, cholesterol, blood pressure and body weight.
Recent advances in caring for people with strokes include expanded access to medications and clot removal procedures. In certain cases, these therapies may be done up to 24 hours after stroke symptoms first appear.
Men may be less flexible than women, but stretching offers important benefits for everyone, especially as they age. Stretching may help keep muscles limber, improve balance and posture, prevent injuries, and even benefit sports performance.
A number of physiological changes driven by the body’s internal clock help explain why heart attacks are more common in the morning. These changes include factors involved in blood pressure, blood clot formation, and inflammation.
A 2026 scientific statement from the American Heart Association details nine key features of a heart-healthy diet that can help people protect their cardiovascular health.