Ticks are increasingly becoming a concern across the United States as they spread beyond their traditional habitats. This expansion poses new threats to both humans and animals. Mathematical ecologist Holly Gaff, from Old Dominion University, shared insights on this issue with William Brangham. Brangham, an award-winning correspondent and producer for PBS News Hour, discussed the...
For the fourth time, the Trump administration has prevented the United States Preventive Services Task Force from meeting as scheduled. The task force, a crucial panel in public health, has not convened in person since March 2025. It traditionally holds three annual meetings to assess scientific evidence related to preventive tests and medications for conditions...
Murine typhus, a flea-borne disease, is experiencing a resurgence in parts of Texas and could infiltrate homes via domestic pets. Recent research highlights a direct link between fleas on cats and the bacterium responsible for this illness, once considered almost eradicated. A Disease Making an Unwelcome Comeback Flea-borne typhus is caused by Rickettsia typhi. Humans...
On a typical Tuesday, you engage in activities that involve exposure to various chemicals. Washing your hair, applying deodorant, enjoying coffee, and packing lunch all expose you to chemicals. Commuting through traffic introduces more chemicals, and at work, cleaning surfaces involves disinfectants. Cooking dinner and running the dishwasher at home adds further exposure. This constant...
A dental hygienist’s inspiring storyTaylor Greenhagen, a dental hygienist from Kansas City, Missouri, shares the compelling journey behind her two children, Owen and Dylan, conceived simultaneously through in vitro fertilization (IVF), yet born three years apart. Together with her pharmacist husband, Justin, Greenhagen cherishes the close-knit bond between her children. Sibling Bond Owen and Dylan...
A new prescription refill initiative in Utah, powered by artificial intelligence (AI), has ignited significant debate about AI’s role in healthcare. The program allows Utah residents to renew prescriptions online via an AI chatbot named Doctronic, bypassing traditional doctor visits. While this brings convenience, it raises concerns among healthcare professionals and legal experts. AI’s Role...
The level of fine particulate matter in Washington, D.C., reached those typically observed during previous Independence Day celebrations. However, it continued to remain elevated through Sunday morning, according to data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Smoke from the fireworks, along with rainfall, was observed during the July Fourth holiday celebrations in Washington. This scene...
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) usually appears in winter, but summer SAD is less common. Warmer weather can affect your mood, leading to summer SAD. A meta-analysis of 24 studies with over 32,000 participants found 0.57% of people experience summer SAD. In comparison, winter SAD affects about 5% of individuals. Summer SAD can include feelings of...
In an effort to address chronic health issues among American men, a federal proposal aims to simplify access to testosterone prescriptions. The proposed changes would reduce existing restrictions, potentially allowing more men to receive testosterone therapy. Testosterone therapy is designed to elevate low levels of the hormone in the body. It could help alleviate various...
A new study reveals that older adults who keep a brisk walking pace are less likely to endure cognitive decline. Researchers examined data from nearly 4,000 participants aged 80 and above. Those walking faster, termed ‘super movers,’ maintained better mental acuity compared to their slower counterparts. Qualifying as a Super Mover Walking speed was a...