Harvard Health Content API

A number of vaccinations are recommended for adults. These include not only the COVID-19 vaccine, but also an annual influenza shot and vaccinations for shingles and pneumococcal disease, among others. A doctor may also recommend additional vaccines depending on a person’s individual circumstances, such as planning travel or caring for a newborn. Adults should check periodically to make sure that they are up to date with all of their shots.

Exercise may help to reverse some types of heart damage. Not only can workouts prevent heart problems, but it may help to improve conditions that may raise risk for cardiovascular events. A 2021 study, for example, showed that a yearlong exercise program helped improve heart health in people who were at increased risk for heart failure.

With the right ingredients, a warm bowl of soup can also be an easy way to boost intake of vegetables and important nutrients. A good option is a broth-based soup with vegetables, whole grains, and a healthy protein such as beans or chicken. Mixing and matching ingredients can not only accommodate taste preferences but nutritional needs.

Bioidentical hormone preparations aren’t superior to FDA-approved hormone medications and may bring additional risks.

It is possible to experience a stroke without symptoms. Addressing cardiovascular risk factors can help lower the risk.

While hearing loss and dementia seem to be connected, doctors don’t know if hearing loss causes cognitive decline. It may be that an unknown common factor causes both problems. But regardless of whether hearing loss may be an early indicator of dementia or a risk factor for the condition, it should be treated. Improving hearing can improve the ability to connect with others and quality of life.

Treating people who have low levels of vitamin D with supplements may reduce their risk for heart attacks and death from any cause.

Three new studies suggest that following a plant-based diet may protect men from prostate cancer and erectile dysfunction.

People who get age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and diabetes-related eye disease may have a higher risk for dementia. Having more than one eye condition may further increase the risk.

While men sometimes hold off urinating until absolutely necessary, waiting too long won’t cause serious damage to their bladder. Still, over time, the practice could possibly raise the risk for urinary tract infections and make urinating difficult.