Adults who consume cannabis are nearly four times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than those who don’t, according to a new study.

Researchers led by Dr. Ibrahim Kamel from the Boston Medical Center in Massachusetts analyzed medical records from 54 healthcare organizations across the U.S. and Europe using the TriNetX Research Network. 

They compared about 96,800 people with cannabis-related diagnoses, from casual users to those with dependency, to more than 4.16 million individuals who had no record of drug use or chronic illness.

DIABETES STUDY REVEALS DIAGNOSIS GAP AFFECTING MILLIONS OF PEOPLE

Over a five-year period, 2.2% of cannabis users developed type 2 diabetes, compared to just 0.6% of non-users. 

Even after adjusting for other health risks like high blood pressure, cholesterol, heart disease and alcohol or cocaine use, marijuana users still faced a higher risk.

Experts say a possible explanation is that marijuana affects appetite, metabolism and insulin resistance. Cannabis use is often associated with poor eating habits, which may contribute to rising blood sugar levels over time. 

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Given the increasing legalization of marijuana, it is often seen as an alternative to alcohol or tobacco, but the research suggests that its long-term risks could be more serious than many realize. 

“As cannabis becomes more widely available and socially accepted and legalized in various jurisdictions, it is essential to understand its potential health risks,” Kamel stated in a press release.

Researchers say that clinicians should be talking to patients about cannabis use so they can understand the potential need for metabolic monitoring. (iStock)

The study does have some limitations, the researchers acknowledged. Its design is retrospective, meaning it looked back at patient records rather than tracking new cases over time. That makes it difficult to prove marijuana directly causes diabetes.

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Additionally, someone who uses it occasionally may not face the same risks as someone who consumes it daily. 

As the researchers pointed out, the study has the potential for bias, as it relied on people to self-report their cannabis use — even in places where it was illegal — and didn’t measure exactly how much they used.

A possible explanation of the results is marijuana’s effects on appetite, metabolism and insulin resistance. (iStock)

Physicians may soon need to “routinely talk to patients about cannabis use so they can understand their overall diabetes risk and potential need for metabolic monitoring,” according to Kamel.

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“These new sights from reliable, real-world evidence highlight the importance of integrating diabetes risk awareness into substance-use disorder treatment and counseling,” he added.

Fox News Digital reached out to cannabis industry organizations requesting comment.

A healthcare worker at Henry Ford Health in Detroit, Michigan, has been placed on leave after making controversial comments about Charlie Kirk’s death.

The intensive care nurse is one of a growing number of employees who have been terminated or suspended due to violence-supporting reactions to the fatal shooting of the conservative commentator on Wednesday, Sept. 10.

In response to a post about Kirk’s murder, the individual commented, “God he got the day he deserved.”

RESTAURANT IN MAJOR CITY FACES FALLOUT OVER ‘OFFENSIVE’ CHARLIE KIRK POST BY CO-OWNER

A spokesperson provided the following statement to Fox News Digital.

“Henry Ford Health is aware of the social media comment, and the team member has been placed on leave while we internally investigate.”

“The views expressed by the individual do not reflect the values of Henry Ford Health. We strongly and unequivocally condemn violence in all its forms,” the statement continued.

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Last week, another healthcare worker — this one from Riverside Health in Virginia — was fired after making her own controversial comments about Charlie Kirk’s death.

Conservative activist Charlie Kirk, 31, was assassinated while speaking to students at a Utah university on Wednesday, Sept. 10. (Phill Magakoe/AFP via Getty Images)

The woman, who was an anesthesiologist at Riverside Walter Reed Hospital, made a social media post that included “highly inappropriate comments supporting violence against a public figure,” according to an email from the hospital sent to Fox News Digital.

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The employee was contracted through North American Partners in Anesthesia (NAPA), an anesthesiology group, the hospital stated.

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“We took prompt action and by mid-morning on Sept. 11, her contract through NAPA was terminated,” the statement read. “The individual is no longer affiliated with Riverside Health.”

West Nile virus is surging across the U.S. this summer, with infections running about 40% higher than normal, according to new reports.

The virus is most commonly spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito, although the disease cycle also includes infected birds. When mosquitoes feed on infected birds, they can pick up the virus and transmit it to humans.

There have been roughly 770 human cases in the U.S. as of early September, with nearly 500 classified as severe, according to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which tracks cases reported by state health departments.

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That’s about 40% higher than the average number of cases reported by this point in previous years (around 550 total and 350 that qualify as severe), based on CDC data.

Most West Nile cases are reported in August and September.

The official report emphasized that this data is still preliminary. Many mild infections go unreported, and there’s often a lag before all severe cases are confirmed. 

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Though a spike is expected during peak season, experts say the intensity of the outbreak and the percentage of mosquitoes testing positive for the virus is unusual.

For most people, West Nile produces mild symptoms — such as fever, aches and rashes — or none at all, according to the CDC.

Experts say the intensity of the outbreak and the percentage of mosquitoes testing positive for the virus is unusual. (iStock)

In rare serious cases, the virus invades the nervous system, causing meningitis, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), paralysis or death.

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It’s the spike in these latter symptoms that is causing concern. People over 50 or those with compromised immune systems are at highest risk, experts caution.

Experts recommend wearing loose, long-sleeved clothing, applying insect repellent and keeping window screens secure to prevent mosquito bites. (iStock)

West Nile virus was first identified in Africa in 1937, with the first European outbreak occurring in 1996. It reached the U.S. in 1999, when an outbreak in New York sent 62 people to the hospital over two months, data shows.

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Avoiding mosquito bites is the first line of defense. Health officials recommend wearing loose, long-sleeved clothing; applying insect repellent (especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active); and ensuring that window screens are secure. 

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Around homes, eliminating standing water (like that found in buckets, tires and gutters) can help keep mosquitoes from breeding.

More women are turning to marijuana to treat pregnancy-related illnesses, but experts warn of possible adverse side effects.

Cannabis use is rising among pregnant women — especially during the first trimester, the most critical period of fetal development, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, published annually by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

Women are turning to marijuana during pregnancy to combat issues such as stress and anxiety, nausea, lack of sleep, vomiting and pain.

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Approximately one in six women admitted to using marijuana or a cannabidiol product while pregnant, but half were not aware of the risks, according to a recent University of Florida study.

Marijuana, derived from the cannabis plant, contains two primary compounds — tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).

These compounds can be thought of as “siblings” — CBD does not affect the brain or spinal cord, while THC brings on more of a euphoric “high,” according to Dr. Alta DeRoo, chief medical officer of the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Today’s marijuana contains much higher concentrations of THC and is more potent than it was in the 1970s, health experts say, which means older research into its effects may be outdated.

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There is also a scarcity of research into how medical issues affect pregnant women, with less than 1% of drug trials enrolling pregnant patients in the past 15 years, according to a public health study.

Is marijuana safe during pregnancy?

Some may assume marijuana is safe for pregnant women because it’s legal in many states and because it’s a natural, plant-based product — but not all natural products are safe during pregnancy.

For example, too much vitamin A can lead to birth defects, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).

“I advise my patients to consider safer alternatives to treat their symptoms in pregnancy.”

“Parents want to do the right thing for their health and especially for that of their future children,” Dr. Jamie Lo, an associate professor of obstetrics, gynecology and urology at Oregon Health & Science University, told Fox News Digital. Her research focuses on the effects of cannabis on reproductive health.

There is no known safe amount of cannabis to use in pregnancy, she added.

“I advise my patients to consider safer alternatives to treat their symptoms in pregnancy — or for those who cannot abstain, at least try to reduce their frequency of use.”

Today’s marijuana contains much higher concentrations of THC and is more potent than it was in the 1970s, health experts say. (iStock)

Kim Gamez, founder of SOBER(ISH), an online marketplace that sells hemp-derived, micro-dosed options for those wanting a buzz without alcohol, said she is “often surprised” by how many women ask if their products are safe to use during pregnancy or while nursing. (Hemp, like marijuana, is derived from the cannabis plant.)

“If there’s ever a time in life when relaxation and good sleep feel most needed, it’s certainly then,” she told Fox News Digital.

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There is currently no data confirming what amount (potency), frequency or timing of cannabis use in safe during pregnancy, Lo added.

“Thus, the national societies — American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American Society for Reproductive Medicine, American Academy of Pediatrics, etc. — all recommend not using cannabis when pregnant or trying to conceive because of the limited safety data,” she said.

Risks of marijuana in pregnancy

After a pregnant woman uses marijuana in any form, the cannabis crosses into the fetus. There are receptors for cannabis in the baby’s brain starting at the third month of pregnancy, DeRoo told Fox News Digital. 

“From there, several studies have shown that this exposure to cannabis decreases fetal weight, head circumference and an increase in neonatal ICU admission,” added DeRoo, who is also a board-certified addiction specialist and OB-GYN and an expert on the maternal and fetal complications of substance use.

Approximately one in six women admitted to using marijuana or a cannabidiol product while pregnant, but half were not aware of the risks. (iStock)

A recent review published this May, which analyzed 51 studies, showed that use of marijuana during pregnancy has been linked to a higher risk of preterm delivery and a 75% higher risk of low birth weight.

Children may also develop a small head size, which correlates to neurological and psychological issues later in life, according to DeRoo.

Use of marijuana during pregnancy has been linked to a higher risk of preterm delivery and low birth weight.

Pregnant women who smoke marijuana can also have breathing problems because the substance lowers the amount of oxygen while smoking, according to the ACOG.

Any amount can impair judgment, cause dizziness and increase the risk of falls and injuries — all of which can become big issues during pregnancy, the above source states.

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Studies over the past several years have also shown that marijuana is associated with problems concentrating, remembering and learning.

It also increases the risk of complications during elective surgery, as well as an increase in emergency visits and hospitalizations.

Experts also warn that cannabis can lead to substance use disorder during pregnancy because of its addictive potential.

There is currently no data confirming what amount (potency), frequency or timing of cannabis use in safe during pregnancy. (iStock)

“Cannabis use disorder is continued cannabis consumption despite negative consequences, such as failing role obligations, impaired relationships, giving up important activities and using [drugs] in physically hazardous situations,” Dr. Tiffany Benjamin, a San Francisco-based psychiatrist who has presented at medical conferences on the clinical considerations of cannabis use, told Fox News Digital.

People who consume too much cannabis may experience side effects of cannabis intoxication, she cautioned.

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These can include conjunctival injection (red eyes), increased appetite, dry mouth, increased heart rate and delayed reaction time, as well as problems with concentration and memory.

“Some individuals may have euphoria, anxiety and paranoia,” Benjamin added.

What if there were an activity so light that it sits below even the usual “easy workout” level? Instead of sweating through intense cardio, Zone Zero is about moving just enough to keep your body active without strain.

“It’s the stuff that feels almost too easy,” celebrity personal trainer Kollins Ezekh told Fox News Digital. “Like walking after dinner or stretching when you’ve been sitting too long.”

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For Zone Zero, your heart rate stays below about 50% of your maximum heart rate, according to various reports on the concept. In real life, that looks like gentle walking, casual stretching, standing instead of sitting, or light household chores. 

You should be able to carry on a full conversation without noticing you’re out of breath. Researchers say it can be thought of as “active rest,” or movement that supports recovery and health without stress.

Experts stress that Zone Zero is not yet an official medical category. Organizations like the National Institutes of Health continue to recommend moderate to vigorous activity — such as brisk walking, running, or cycling — as the backbone of good health. The emerging Zone Zero idea, though, may encourage people to move more in everyday life, even if they aren’t ready for traditional workouts.

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To see where Zone Zero fits, it helps to understand how exercise “zones” work in general. Zones are ways of measuring how hard your heart is working during a fitness routine. Health experts explain that Zone 1 starts at about 50%–60% of your maximum heart rate. 

This may feel like slow walking or warming up, although everyone’s experience will be slightly different. A good way to measure it without any gadgets is to see if you can talk easily and your breathing stays relaxed.

You can estimate your maximum heart rate by subtracting your age from 220. (iStock)

In Zone 2, or around 60%–70% of your maximum heart rate, this may look like brisk walking or light jogging. Mayo Clinic notes this level is good for building endurance and burning fat. 

Zone 3 pushes into moderate effort, where conversation becomes harder, and Zones 4 and 5 bring you into very hard and maximum intensity, where talking is nearly impossible and effort can only be sustained in short bursts.

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“The benefits are real. It helps regulate blood sugar, improves circulation, and makes recovery on off days easier. It’s also stress-free, which is why people are more likely to stick with it,” says Ezekh.

Celebrity personal trainer Kollins Ezekh says Zone Zero workouts can help regulate blood sugar and improve circulation. (iStock)

“The only drawback is if you rely on it alone,” says Ezekh. “You won’t build much strength or endurance from Zone Zero by itself.” 

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However, the steps to begin are straightforward. You can estimate your maximum heart rate by subtracting your age from 220, a method recommended by Johns Hopkins Medicine. Staying under 50% of that number keeps you in Zone Zero.

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If you don’t have a fitness tracker, you can rely on feel — you should be able to breathe comfortably and talk smoothly without effort. That can mean taking a slow walk, standing up to stretch, or moving lightly around the house.

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“I see it as the foundation — sprinkle it throughout the day, then add in strength and cardio to round out your fitness,” Ezekh said.

A healthcare worker in Virginia has been fired after making controversial comments about Charlie Kirk’s death.

The individual is one of a growing number of employees who have been terminated or suspended due to violence-supporting reactions to the conservative commentator’s assassination on Wednesday.

The woman, who was an anesthesiologist at Riverside Walter Reed Hospital, made a social media post that included “highly inappropriate comments supporting violence against a public figure,” according to an email from the hospital sent to Fox News Digital.

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Riverside became aware of the post on Thursday morning. 

The employee’s name was not shared in the statement. 

The employee was contracted through North American Partners in Anesthesia (NAPA), an anesthesiology group, the hospital stated.

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“We took prompt action and by mid-morning on Sept. 11, her contract through NAPA was terminated,” the statement read. 

“The individual is no longer affiliated with Riverside Health.”

Conservative political figure Charlie Kirk, 31, was assassinated while speaking to students at a Utah university on Wednesday. (Phill Magakoe/AFP via Getty Images)

Fox News Digital reached out to North American Partners in Anesthesia requesting comment.

Among the other fallout after Kirk’s assassination, a popular barbecue restaurant in Cincinnati has faced backlash over a co-owner’s social media comments.

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Aaron Sharpe, co-owner of Lucius Q, commented on a Facebook post from someone offering prayers for the husband and father of two.

A co-owner of Lucius Q sparked widespread backlash over an insensitive Facebook comment related to conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s death. (Google Street View)

“Good riddance,” Sharpe wrote in a post that is no longer publicly visible but has been circulated widely online in screenshots. “What a piece of s—,” he added.

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On Thursday, several of Lucius Q’s business partners and vendor sites announced they had cut ties with the restaurant. 

Lucius Q later announced it had parted ways with Sharpe.

For the first time in history, more children are obese than underweight, a shift UNICEF says is putting millions of kids at risk of life-threatening disease.

The UN agency’s analysis, which covered data from more than 190 countries between 2000 and 2022 and projections since, found that one in 10 school-aged kids — about 188 million worldwide — is obese under World Health Organization (WHO) standards.

Meanwhile, one in five children under 19 years old globally – or 391 million – is overweight. Kids are considered overweight if they carry excess weight for their age, sex and height, while obesity is a more severe form that greatly increases the risk of serious health problems later in life. 

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Between 2000 and 2022, global obesity rates among those aged five to 19 more than tripled, jumping from 3% to 9.4%. During the same period, the prevalence of underweight children fell from nearly 13% to 9.2%.

“When we talk about malnutrition, we are no longer just talking about underweight children,” UNICEF executive director Catherine Russell said in a press release.

“Ultra-processed food is increasingly replacing fruits, vegetables and protein at a time when nutrition plays a critical role in children’s growth, cognitive development and mental health,” she warned.

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While undernutrition is still a significant problem, obesity is now more common almost everywhere except South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. 

The report highlights obesity hotspots and found that levels have doubled since the 2000s, especially in low- and middle-income countries, even as they still struggle with undernutrition. In small Pacific Island nations like Niue and the Cook Islands, nearly 40% of young people are obese.

Children still face malnutrition in the form of being both underweight and overweight, according to UNICEF. (iStock)

Meanwhile, in wealthier countries, where ultra-processed foods make up more than half of adolescents’ calories, high levels of obesity persist. Twenty-seven percent of five-to-19-year-olds in Chile are living with obesity, while rates in the U.S. and the United Arab Emirates stand at 21%.

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In wealthier nations such as the U.S., doctors are increasingly backing the use of new weight-loss drugs in teenagers as a tool to combat the crisis.

“Obesity is not a failure of parents or children. It’s the result of toxic food environments,” author, professor and UNICEF backer Chris Van Tulleken told Reuters.

Obesity leads to a higher risk of developing insulin resistance and high blood pressure, as well as life-threatening diseases later in life, including Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and certain cancers, according to the report.

Obesity has now surpassed underweight as the most common form of malnutrition among young kids, UNICEF warns. (iStock)

In addition to ultra-processed foods, especially those high in salt, sugar and fat, experts blame the aggressive marketing of junk food.

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A survey of 64,000 young people conducted by the agency in 170 countries revealed that 75% had seen ads for sugary drinks, snacks or fast food in the prior week. Even in conflict zones, 68% reported being exposed to this kind of advertising. Sixty-five percent of respondents in low-income countries were exposed to them, too, including at school, on social media, at sporting events and in cartoons.

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. this week unveiled the “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) report on childhood health, which warns that ultra-processed foods, sedentary behavior and a host of environmental and dietary factors are fueling rising obesity and chronic disease in American children. 

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It said the administration would explore the development of potential industry guidelines to limit direct advertising of unhealthy foods to children.

UNICEF is urging governments to take swift action on unhealthy food environments. (iStock)

UNICEF is urging governments worldwide to urgently impose restrictions on junk food marketing and ban unhealthy products in schools.

In Mexico, where childhood and adolescent obesity is common and sugary drinks and ultra-processed foods account for 40% of kids’ daily calories, the government recently banned the sale and distribution of ultra-processed foods and items high in salt, sugar and fat in public schools, UNICEF noted.

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The agency warned that without swift action, the trend threatens to fuel a surge in diabetes, heart disease and other serious health problems among the next generation.

Exercise is widely regarded as an essential component of health for older adults — particularly strength training.

Health agencies recommend that adults get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise and at least two days of strength training exercises, which includes lifting weights or performing muscle-building activities.

Marfred Suazo, known online as Fonz the Trainer, was a lifelong athletic competitor before he became a fitness trainer in New York City nearly 10 years ago.

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In training thousands of people of all ages, Suazo said he coaches older adults with an eye toward “decades of strength.”

“We have our fourth decade, which is crucial. As we turn 40, as we turn 50, 60, 70 and even 80, there are different requirements,” he told Fox News Digital in an on-camera interview. (See the video at the top of the article.)

“We’re preventing ourselves from declining in our fitness journey and in our ability to do day-to-day things, like carrying groceries and walking up steps.” 

Strength training should be the “main priority” for older adults, Suazo said, because skeletal muscle — which he calls the “organ of longevity” — begins to decline over time.

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“Skeletal muscle is like our body armor,” he said. “It prevents falls, it prevents hip breakage, it helps with all of these things.” 

Preserving muscle is particularly important for aging women, Suazo noted, as it helps to prevent osteopenia and osteoporosis.

Suazo was a lifelong athletic competitor before he became a fitness trainer in New York City nearly 10 years ago. (Fonzthetrainer)

6 pillars of strength training

When strength training, Suazo recommends that older adults focus on the following six core pillars of movement for functional fitness.

“You want to have all those pillars in order, and you want to structure your training in that fashion so you can target all of these areas,” he said.

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Push

This includes movements where the person pushes weight away from the body, typically working the chest, shoulder and triceps. 

Some common examples include push-ups, bench presses, chest presses and dips.

Push movements are those where the person pushes weight away from the body, typically working the chest, shoulder and triceps.  (iStock)

Pull

With this type of movement, the weight is pulled toward the body. These exercises target the back muscles and biceps.

Some examples include pull-ups, chin-ups, dumbbell rows, bent-over rows, lat pulldowns and inverted rows.

Pull exercises target the back muscles and biceps. (iStock)

Carry

This entails holding weight while walking, which helps to improve posture and stability, strengthens grip, and works the shoulders, upper back, core and hips.

“You want to be able to carry at least 70% of your body weight,” Suazo advised.

The carry movement entails holding weight while walking, which helps to improve posture and stability, strengthens grip, and works the shoulders, upper back, core and hips. (iStock)

Hinge

“Hinging at the hip is crucial,” Suazo said. “It allows you to bend over and extend the hips.”

These hip-dominant movements — including deadlifts, hip thrusts, kettlebell swings and good mornings — work the muscles along the back of the body, such as the glutes, hamstrings and posterior chain.

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Overhead press

Vertical press movements focus on strengthening the shoulders, triceps and core.

Some examples include the overhead press, shoulder press and push press.

Vertical press movements focus on strengthening the shoulders, triceps and core. (iStock)

Squat

The squat is an essential movement that targets the quads, glutes and core, according to Suazo.

There are several variations, including the front squat, goblet squat (holding a weight or kettle bell), back squat (holding a bar on the shoulders) and the split squat (stationary lunge).

The squat is an essential movement that targets the quads, glutes and core, according to Suazo. (iStock)

Getting started

For true beginners, Suazo said it’s best to “stick to the fundamentals,” like calisthenics, push-ups, pull-ups and squats. 

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“If you can’t do pull ups, I’d do inverted rows — I think that’s primal,” he said. “If you can’t do those, resistance band training is a tremendous way to start.”

“And you can do it at home. You don’t have to be in a gym.”

For true beginners, Suazo (pictured) said it’s best to “stick to the fundamentals,” like calisthenics, push-ups, pull-ups and squats.  (Fonzthetrainer)

The trainer emphasized the importance of starting slowly and progressively increasing the weight to challenge the body.

Strength training should also be combined with cardiovascular activity and mobility to create what Suazo calls the “tripod effect.”

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“Those three things, when they come together, they’re able to hold you up a lot better,” he said. “So I think putting focus on all three is super beneficial, especially as we age.”

Those who are considering starting a new exercise program should consult with a doctor for guidance to prevent injury.

Levels of iron in the brain could be a warning sign of future Alzheimer’s disease, a new study suggests.

High levels of the chemical element have been shown to increase brain toxins and trigger neurodegeneration, resulting in cognitive decline — especially when they interact with the abnormal amyloid and tau proteins that are the hallmark pathologies of Alzheimer’s disease.

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University found that a special MRI technique called quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) can measure levels of brain iron.

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“QSM is an advanced MRI technique developed over the last decade to measure tissue magnetic susceptibility with good precision,” the study’s senior author, Xu Li, associate professor of radiology at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, said in a press release. 

“QSM can detect small differences in iron levels across different brain regions, providing a reliable and non-invasive way to map and quantify iron in patients, which is not possible with conventional MR approaches.”  

Compared to traditional imaging options for Alzheimer’s diagnosis, including PET scans, QSM MRI is “non-invasive and much more affordable,” according to the researchers. 

This measurement could help predict the likelihood of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and cognitive decline, even if the person has shown no symptoms.

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In the study, which was published in the journal Radiology, the researchers tested the MRI technique on 158 cognitively unimpaired participants from a previous research project.

After a follow-up period of 7½ years, the team concluded that higher iron levels in two key parts of the brain were linked to a higher risk of mild cognitive impairment, which is typically a precursor to the development of Alzheimer’s dementia.

“Brain iron changes may be measured years before memory loss, when the participants are still cognitively normal.”

“The key takeaway of our study is that higher brain iron levels, especially in some critical brain regions related to memory and learning (entorhinal cortex and putamen, as shown in our study), are linked to a two to four times higher risk of developing MCI and faster cognitive decline,” Li told Fox News Digital. 

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“And such brain iron changes may be measured years before memory loss, when the participants are still cognitively normal.

“Using QSM, we found higher brain iron in some memory-related regions that are linked to a higher risk of developing cognitive impairment and faster cognitive decline,” Li said. “This risk is even higher when the participants have higher levels of amyloid pathologies.”

High levels of the chemical element have been shown to increase brain toxins and trigger neurodegeneration. (iStock)

The study did have some limitations, Li noted, including the smaller group of participants.

“The study population is from a specialized cohort consisting of mainly White, highly educated participants with a strong family history of Alzheimer’s disease,” the researcher noted.

If larger, more diverse studies confirm these findings, it could support the use of this MRI technique for patients at a higher risk of dementia, the release stated.

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“I think we should be hopeful,” Li said. “We can use this kind of tool to help identify patients at higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and potentially guide early interventions as new treatments become available. Also, besides serving as a biomarker, brain iron may become a future therapeutic target.”  

The researchers also hope to make the QSM technology more standardized, faster and more widely accessible in clinical practice, he added.

While brain iron is associated with neurodegeneration and could lead to faster cognitive decline, it is also an important element for cognitive health, the researcher said. (iStock)

Li noted that while brain iron is associated with neurodegeneration and could lead to faster cognitive decline, it is also an important element for cognitive health and neurodevelopment at a young age. 

“While iron chelation therapies (to remove iron) for Alzheimer’s are currently explored, their effect is still not very clear and much more research is needed,” he said.

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The study was supported by the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering, National Institute on Aging and the National Institutes of Health.

Beta blockers are quickly becoming the hot new drug to combat anxiety.

The medication, also known as propranolol, was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 1967 for the treatment of cardiovascular disease, and is commonly used to treat high blood pressure.

Prescriptions for propranolol have risen 28% from 2020, according to global IQVIA data cited by The Wall Street Journal.

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Celebrities have recently touted beta blockers’ anti-anxiety capabilities.

At this year’s Academy Awards, actress Rachel Sennott shared this advice on the red carpet: “Take that beta blocker, girl. Swallow it down and lock in … Numb is in.”

TV personality and “Giggly Squad” podcast co-host Paige DeSorbo has also been upfront about her experience with the drug, speaking openly about using beta blockers to cope with panic attacks on tour.

“I had my first real, legit panic attack,” DeSorbo said in a September 2024 episode. “When I took a beta blocker and went out and did the show, I was completely fine.”

What are beta blockers?

Dr. Daniel Amen, a psychiatrist, brain imaging specialist and founder of Amen Clinics in California, said in an interview with Fox News Digital that beta blockers are medications that “calm the body’s stress response.”

In his own practice, Amen said he always starts with “natural techniques” to relieve stress and anxiety. This can include diaphragmatic breathing, meditation, hypnosis and mindfulness.

(L-R) Paige DeSorbo and Hannah Berner are pictured at a Giggly Squad show on Sept. 22, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. DeSorbo has been upfront about her use of the drug to cope with panic attacks on tour. (Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images for Uber)

“But sometimes, your nervous system still overrides your best coping strategies,” he noted. “That’s where beta blockers can be incredibly helpful.”

The pill works by blocking the effects of adrenaline, which then lowers heart rate, steadies breathing and reduces physical anxiety symptoms, including racing thoughts, shaky hands and a pounding heart.

“Used responsibly, beta blockers are an effective, low-risk tool that helps many people live calmer, more confident lives.”

“When your body thinks you’re under attack, beta blockers help quiet the ‘false alarms’ going off in your nervous system,” Amen said.

“They don’t sedate you or cloud your thinking,” he said. “Instead, they give you back control over your body, so your mind can catch up.”

Beta blockers are most commonly used to treat high blood pressure and other heart-related conditions. (iStock)

“For many people, they’re like hitting the ‘pause’ button on the fight-or-flight response, so you can think more clearly and perform at your best.”

The psychiatrist added that beta blockers are also commonly used for migraines, tremors, heart rhythm issues and to protect the heart after a cardiovascular event.

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Potential side effects

Amen pointed out that beta blockers do not cause cravings or withdrawals like other anti-anxiety medications.

Amen emphasized that some people may feel more tired at first, but this side effect usually abates.

When treating anxiety, Amen said he first practices “natural techniques,” such as breathing and meditation. (iStock)

People with asthma, diabetes or certain heart conditions should consult their doctor before trying this medication, as different types of beta blockers may be better suited for certain individuals.

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“You shouldn’t stop them suddenly if you’ve been taking them daily,” Amen cautioned. “Tapering is safest.”

Beta blockers are considered “very safe, well-tolerated and non-addictive” for most people when prescribed “thoughtfully,” according to the doctor.

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“Used responsibly, beta blockers are an effective, low-risk tool that helps many people live calmer, more confident lives.”

Amen often prescribes beta blockers as a “first-line medication” for those with performance anxiety, public speaking fears or other circumstances that involve physical anxiety.

“Beta blockers are finally getting credit as a simple, safe option that can make a big difference,” the doctor said. (iStock)

“For the right person, beta blockers can be life-changing,” he noted. “I’ve seen them help people give TED talks, pass board exams, sing on stage and walk into big life moments with confidence … When you quiet the body, you free the brain to work at its best.”

The doctor said he welcomes the recent celebrity endorsements for beta blockers, as anxiety is “one of the most common mental health challenges today.”

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“Beta blockers are finally getting credit as a simple, safe option that can make a big difference,” he said.

Amen stressed, however, that beta blockers are not “magic pills,” and that they work best when combined with healthy coping strategies, like using breathing techniques, changing toxic thought patterns and eating a brain-healthy diet.

On the 24th anniversary of the Sept. 11th attacks, Fox News correspondent Eric Shawn reported live on “Fox & Friends” from Lower Manhattan, where survivors, families, first responders and public officials gathered to honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost. 

During the segment, Shawn revealed that he himself suffers from 9/11-related cancer.

“I have two different diagnoses under the World Trade Center Program,” he said, referencing the federal program that provides monitoring and treatment for survivors, responders and others directly affected in New York, at the Pentagon and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

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“It is hard to believe that it has been nearly a quarter of a century since that day, when radical Islamic terrorism attacked the very heart of our city and our country,” Shawn said.

“It is a philosophy that basically hates our principles, our freedoms, what our nation stands for. That has not diminished — and today, again, we all gather here to remember what was lost.”

The tragedy extends far beyond that day, he emphasized.

“While 2,977 people were murdered here that day, the number who have died from 9/11-related illnesses has increased from the toxic dust that was released,” Shawn said.

 “We’re all in this together.”

The CDC indicates that 48,000 people have now reported 9/11-related cancers, with nearly 10,000 diagnoses in just the past year. 

ON THIS DAY IN HISTORY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2001, US EXPERIENCES THE WORST TERRORIST ATTACK IN AMERICAN HISTORY

More than 3,700 first responders have died since 9/11, including 2,300 who had cancer. 

The Fire Department of the City of New York has been hit especially hard, with 409 of its members lost to post-9/11 illnesses.

“While 2,977 people were murdered here that day, the number who have died from 9/11 related illnesses has increased from the toxic dust that was released,” Shawn said. (Robert Giroux/Getty Images)

For Shawn, the statistics are deeply personal, as he suffers from both respiratory issues and cancer directly related to the attacks. But he said he is one of the lucky ones.

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“I think of all those who were killed that day and those who continue to suffer because of that philosophy — that is not diminished,” he said. “We have to condemn it. We have to despise it. You will never forget.”

“If you were below Canal Street, basically, you were exposed to the dust,” Shawn said. (iStock)

The health impact reaches far beyond first responders, Shawn said. 

“If you were below Canal Street, basically, you were exposed to the dust. I was here reporting on it. That’s what happened with me. I mean, I’m very, very lucky. I think of all those who are suffering much greater … I’ve lost a few friends from this, of course.”

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Shawn’s own diagnosis came decades later, in the form of a bronchitis-related respiratory issue and then a cancer diagnosis just this year.

“Back then, I remember thinking, maybe in 20, 30 years later I’ll get something. Well, here it is, 24 years.”

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Shawn emphasized the importance of coming together as a nation. “We’re all in this together. I mean, we are,” he said. “We are all in it together.”

For older adults, minor falls can pose major threats, as their risk of death after a fall has tripled in the U.S. over the last 30 years.

Some experts believe that certain medications — a category called fall risk-increasing drugs (FRIDs) — could be to blame.

Dr. Thomas A. Farley, a Washington, D.C.–based public health expert, writes in the medical publication JAMA that lifestyle changes alone can’t explain the spike.

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“There is plenty of reason to believe that the surge in fall deaths may be tied to the soaring use of certain prescription drugs,” he writes.

Farley noted that these drugs are widely used among older adults, and their use has grown over the past few decades.

“Cutting back on unnecessary FRIDs could be a simple but powerful way to reduce fall rates and help seniors remain safe, independent and active as they age,” the researchers wrote in the study, published in BMC Geriatrics.

What to know about FRIDs

FRIDs could make people more likely to fall because they can cause drowsiness, dizziness, slower reaction times or problems with balance and coordination, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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This category of medications includes common drugs such as beta-blockers (often used for heart conditions), anticholinergics (used for allergies, bladder issues or depression), and even proton pump inhibitors (for acid reflux), which may not directly cause falls, but can make injuries worse if a fall happens.

The most concerning FRIDs are those that act on the brain and nervous system — particularly opioids, benzodiazepines, gabapentinoids and antidepressants, one doctor stated. (iStock)

The most concerning FRIDs, according to Farley, are those that act on the brain and nervous system, including the following.

• Opioids (painkillers)
• Benzodiazepines (tranquilizers and sleep aids)
• Gabapentinoids (like gabapentin, often prescribed for nerve pain)
• Antidepressants

“The discussion of risk versus benefit is best to be had with a primary care physician who truly knows the patient and their specific risk factors.”

“The easiest way to think of medications that increase the risk of falls is any medication that changes a person’s ability to clearly perceive and navigate the world,” Dr. Kenneth J. Perry, a physician based in South Carolina, told Fox News Digital. “Standing or walking without falling takes a great deal of coordination between different parts of a person’s body.”

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Previous studies of FRIDs suggest a link to an increased risk of falling.

In one Swiss study last year, a group of seniors 74 and older were tracked over three years. Those taking any FRID at all were 13% more likely to fall, 15% more likely to suffer an injurious fall and 12% more likely to fall multiple times.

In one study that tracked seniors for three years, those taking any fall risk-increasing drug faced a 15% higher chance of an injurious fall. (iStock)

For those taking multiple FRIDs, the risks were even higher, with 22% more total falls and 33% more injurious falls.

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There are some limitations to these studies, according to Perry.

“Many times, there are obvious associations between the two items, but that does not mean that there is a specific causation,” he told Fox News Digital. “Although what appears to be a logical conclusion of FRIDs being the cause of the increased falls, it is difficult to truly make such a statement without further study.”

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Perry emphasized that seniors shouldn’t necessarily avoid the medications altogether.

“There is always a risk associated with taking any medication, but the intent is to make sure that the benefits outweigh the risks,” he said. “The discussion of risk versus benefit is best to be had with a primary care physician who truly knows the patient and their specific risk factors.”

Nearly half of adults worldwide who are living with diabetes don’t even know they have it, leaving millions vulnerable to dangerous complications.

A sweeping new study, published in the journal The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, examined data from more than 200 countries between 2000 and 2023, tracking how well health systems identify, treat and control the condition.

Researchers analyzed how many people with diabetes are undiagnosed, untreated, receiving suboptimal care or achieving optimal blood sugar control, broken down by age, sex, location and year.

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The researchers found that about 44% of people aged 15 and older with diabetes remain undiagnosed.

“Many people would not have signs or symptoms until their diabetes is very advanced, and many people are not going to the doctor often or at all for lab work,” Tanya Freirich, a registered dietitian nutritionist in North Carolina, told Fox News Digital. (She was not involved in the study.)

Most diagnosed patients, roughly 91%, receive medication, but less than half manage to get their blood sugar under control. That means only about one in five people worldwide are effectively managing their disease.

Young people are the most likely to go undiagnosed, despite facing serious long-term risks, such as heart disease, kidney failure, blindness and nerve damage, according to the study.

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Geography plays a powerful role in diagnosis rates. In wealthier countries like the United States and Canada, diagnosis rates are higher, though challenges remain in long-term management of the disease.

In lower-income regions, particularly in parts of sub-Saharan Africa, fewer than one in five people with diabetes are aware they have the condition.

1.3 billion people are expected to be living with diabetes by 2050, and experts say medication alone may not be enough. (iStock)

Lead author Lauryn Stafford, a researcher at the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington, said these numbers should set off alarms for governments and health systems worldwide.

“By 2050, 1.3 billion people are expected to be living with diabetes, and if nearly half don’t know they have a serious and potentially deadly health condition, it could easily become a silent epidemic,” she said in a press release.

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The study also suggests that treatment itself often falls short. Prescriptions alone don’t control blood sugar, as researchers warn that health systems must also focus on monitoring, education and lifestyle support.

For some people with prediabetes, early treatment as well as moderate lifestyle changes can return blood glucose (blood sugar) levels to a normal range, effectively preventing or delaying type 2 diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association.

Previous research shows that lifestyle changes like the Mediterranean diet could help prevent diabetes. (iStock)

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It is difficult to be exact about the number of people who are undiagnosed, experts say.

“Those are data points that are unable to be confirmed until diagnosed,” Frierich said. “While I do not doubt the accuracy of the tool [used in the study], there may be unknown factors that are not included in the model.”

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The dietitian recommends that everyone has a semi-regular health check. 

She also noted that increasing fiber intake with whole, unprocessed, plant-based foods like vegetables and nuts — as well as staying consistently active — can reduce the risk of diabetes and help to regulate blood sugar.

They may have gained popularity for diabetes and weight loss, but GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy have been linked to ever-expanding health benefits.

In fact, some doctors — including Dr. Terry Dubrow, a plastic surgeon and TV personality based in Newport Beach, California — recommend that everyone takes a low daily dose, even if they don’t need to lose weight.

Dubrow spoke on camera with Fox News Digital about the benefits of “microdosing” these medications. (See the video at the top of this article.)

How GLP-1s work

GLP-1 receptor agonists work by mimicking a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which is released from the gut after eating.

The drugs help to regulate blood sugar, slow down emptying of the stomach and diminish appetite, and have also been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease.

“Sugar’s the enemy, and these drugs affect sugar in your blood,” Dubrow told Fox News Digital. “They affect the way insulin reacts.”

GLP-1s help insulin move the glucose (sugar) out of the bloodstream and into the body’s cells, where it can be used for energy or stored, the doctor said. The drugs also help to prevent the inflammation and damage sugar can cause in the blood vessels, nerves and organs.

‘NEXT OZEMPIC’ AIMS TO DELIVER 30% WEIGHT LOSS WITH FEWER SIDE EFFECTS

“I don’t think anyone would argue that if there was a way to manipulate the amount of sugar and inflammation your body’s exposed to, that is something we want to lean into. And that’s exactly what these drugs do,” Dubrow added.

In addition to regulating blood sugar and triggering weight loss, GLP-1s have also been approved to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events and kidney disease in certain patients.

“I have never seen a drug in the history of medicine be on such a rapid path to approval.”

“Even if you’re not overweight, being on these GLP-1 drugs … helps to minimize and prevent a repeat recurrent heart attack,” Dubrow said.

Semaglutide was also recently approved for MASH (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis), an inflammatory form of fatty liver disease.

Dubrow spoke on camera with Fox News Digital about the benefits of GLP-1 medications. (Fox News Digital)

GLP-1s are also being studied for potential cognitive benefits in Parkinson’s patients.

“I have never seen a drug in the history of medicine be on such a rapid path to approval,” Dubrow said.

The case for microdosing

Along with other experts, Dubrow is an advocate for microdosing, which is where people take low, steady doses of GLP-1s every day, even if they don’t need them for diabetes or obesity.

While patients with diabetes take doses that increase every four weeks, microdosing entails using a low-level dose that doesn’t go up.

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A younger population on TikTok has zeroed in on microdosing, Dubrow pointed out — and he thinks everyone should be doing it.

“I am obsessed with the concept of microdosing,” he said. “I think maybe half the starting dose for diabetes is the way to go — and you probably don’t need it every seven days, it’s probably every 10 days, just to sort of modulate the amount of sugar in the blood.”

“Even if you’re not overweight, being on these GLP-1 drugs … helps to minimize and prevent a repeat recurrent heart attack,” Dubrow said. (iStock)

The doctor noted that there are still a lot of unknowns with GLP-1 medications.

“We are just figuring out now how to use these drugs for different indications, for different reasons,” he said. “We’re learning as we’re using it.”

“I am obsessed with the concept of microdosing.”

As with other drugs, like Botox, Dubrow said there is a bit of “human experimentation” at play.

“We’re figuring it out, and we’re teaching the medical profession how to do it. The patients are telling us how to use these drugs.”

Potential risks

GLP-1 medications have been linked to several potential risks. The most prevalent is gastrointestinal issues, such as nausea and vomiting.

Others have reported an increased risk of pancreatitis, muscle loss and thyroid tumors.

“I read every study that comes out on these drugs, and I can tell you, it’s very clear they don’t cause pancreatitas,” Dubrow said. 

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“In fact, if you really look at the populations who have been using it, pancreatitis is less in those populations.”

Dubrow confirmed, however, that the drug has been linked to an increased risk of the very rare medullary cancer of the thyroid. 

Those who experience severe side effects from GLP-1s should talk to a doctor, Dubrow advised.  (iStock)

“If you have a family history of that, that’s a contraindication to you using these drugs,” he said. 

Regarding the digestive side effects, the doctor said the medications do slow down the GI tract, but it’s been shown that the body adjusts to that over time. 

“These particular drugs are natural hormones that occur in our small intestine, and you get used to the side effects. They go away.”

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The severity of side effects is linked to the dose amount, Dubrow noted.

“The low dose, particularly the microdose, really has a low propensity toward the constipation, the nausea, the potential diarrhea, the GERD (reflux),” he said. “I think those side effects are less significant for people who microdose.”

To counteract the risk of muscle loss, Dubrow recommends increasing protein intake and incorporating resistance training as a core component of an exercise routine. 

Those who do experience severe side effects should talk to a doctor, he advised. 

Off-label use of GLP-1s, such as for microdosing, is common, Dubrow said — “but finding a doctor willing to prescribe can be difficult.” (iStock)

Drugmakers weigh in

When contacted by Fox News Digital, manufacturers of GLP-1 medications warned against microdosing the products.

“Lilly does not have any data on the benefits or risks of microdosing of Zepbound and Mounjaro,” said a spokesperson for Eli Lilly, maker of the GLP-1 drugs Mounjaro and Zepbounda. “Both autoinjectors and Zepbound vials are approved for single-use only — dose-splitting or ‘microdosing’ is not contemplated by the FDA label. As such, off-label use of Zepbound and Mounjaro may pose patient safety risks.”

“Off-label use of Zepbound and Mounjaro may pose patient safety risks.”

Novo Nordisk, maker of Ozempic and Wegovy, said it does not condone “misuse” of its products. 

“It’s important to understand that for Wegovy, only the marked doses on the single-use, fixed-dose pens (0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 1.7 and 2.4 mg) are approved for use and represent an authentic FDA-approved medicine,” a spokesperson told Fox News Digital. “The starting dose of Wegovy® is 0.25 mg once a week, and the dose will gradually increase every four weeks. Patients should work with their healthcare professional to select either 1.7 mg or 2.4 mg for the maintenance dose.” 

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“It is also important to note that the authentic Wegovy injectable pen is designed as a single-use pen, the dose is already set, and should not be altered or tampered with, and the pen must be disposed after one use.” 

“Ozempic is a multi-use pen with one pen and multiple needles,” the spokesperson added.

Accessing GLP-1s

Dubrow said he’s not concerned about supply issues amid the growing popularity of GLP-1s, as major drug companies have the resources to “scale up” to meet the demand.

Off-label use of GLP-1s, such as for microdosing, is common, Dubrow said — “but finding a doctor willing to prescribe can be difficult.”

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The doctor cautioned against buying these drugs from online marketplaces, which he referred to as the “wild wild west.”

“It’s hard to find these drugs online from compounding pharmacies, because essentially they’re going rogue — it’s illegal. They’re not allow to do it,” he warned. 

“These drugs are natural hormones that occur in our small intestine, and you get used to the side effects.”

“So if you’re getting it from rogue pharmacies that aren’t allowed to do it or are willing to bend the rules, what is it? You don’t know what you’re getting.”

“It may be an adulterated, weird version that has side effects or that’s not effective.”

Looking ahead

There are several next-generation drugs in development that combine multiple hormone pathways, Dubrow said.

“I predict within five years, we’ll have a pill … designed to manipulate hunger and insulin resistance,” he predicted.

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Overall, Dubrow said, GLP-1s are “here to stay.”

“They’re just going to get better, and we’re going to learn how to use them in a more appropriate and clinically effective way,” he said. “So fasten your seatbelt. If you’re not on them now, you will be later.”

A common artificial sweetener could make cancer treatments less effective, a new study has found.

Sucralose, a sweetener found in many diet sodas, low-calorie snacks and powdered sugar substitutes, could interfere with immunotherapy in cancer patients, according to research from the University of Pittsburgh and UPMC Hillman Cancer Center.

The study included 132 patients with melanoma (a deadly form of skin cancer) and nonsmall cell lung cancer (the most common type of lung cancer).

YOUR DAILY DIET SODA COULD BE AGING YOUR BRAIN FASTER THAN YOU THINK, STUDY FINDS

All patients were taking anti-PD1 (a type of immunotherapy), either alone or in combination with chemotherapy. 

They all completed dietary questionnaires that indicated the volume of artificial sweeteners they consumed.

The researchers found that the patients who consumed high levels of sucralose had a “worse response” to immunotherapy and “poorer survival” than those who consumed low amounts, according to a press release.

“We found that sucralose impeded the effectiveness of immunotherapies across a range of cancer types, stages and treatment modalities,” said senior author Diwakar Davar, associate professor of medicine at Pitt and a medical oncologist and hematologist at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, in the release.

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“These observations raise the possibility of designing prebiotics, such as targeted nutrient supplementation for patients who consume high levels of sucralose.” 

The findings were published in Cancer Discovery, a journal by the American Association for Cancer Research.

“It’s easy to say, ‘Stop drinking diet soda,’ but when patients are being treated for cancer, they are already dealing with enough.”

On a positive note, the researchers also found that taking supplements to increase levels of the amino acid arginine counteracted those effects and boosted the effectiveness of immunotherapy, as seen in a study of mice.

“It’s easy to say, ‘Stop drinking diet soda,’ but when patients are being treated for cancer, they are already dealing with enough, so asking them to drastically alter their diet may not be realistic,” said lead author Abby Overacre, assistant professor in the Department of Immunology at Pitt and UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, in the release. 

Sucralose is a sweetener found in many diet sodas, low-calorie snacks and powdered sugar substitutes. (iStock)

“We need to meet patients where they are. That’s why it’s so exciting that arginine supplementation could be a simple approach to counteract the negative effects of sucralose on immunotherapy.”

In the mouse study, the sucralose was shown to alter the gut microbiome in a way that reduced levels of arginine. This amino acid is essential for T-cell function, which is a key component of immunotherapy drugs.

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“When arginine levels were depleted due to sucralose-driven shifts in the microbiome, T cells couldn’t function properly,” said Overacre. “As a result, immunotherapy wasn’t as effective in mice that were fed sucralose.” 

“For people undergoing cancer treatment, all guidance should come from their healthcare team.”

Looking ahead, the researchers plan to launch a clinical trial investigating arginine supplementation in human cancer patients. They will also explore the potential impact of other sugar substitutes on immunotherapy effectiveness.

The study was supported by the National Institutes of Health, the Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation and Gateway for Cancer Research.

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The Calorie Control Council provided the below statement to Fox News Digital.

“For people undergoing cancer treatment, all guidance should come from their healthcare team,” said Carla Saunders, president of the council.

The researchers found that the patients who consumed high levels of sucralose had a “worse response” to immunotherapy and “poorer survival” than those who consumed low amounts. (iStock)

“This study has several limitations, relying on animal research that cannot be directly applied to humans, and [is] a small observational study in humans using self-reported dietary data, which is often subject to misreporting, underreporting and bias. While continued research is critical, scientific regulatory authorities worldwide, including the FDA, have repeatedly confirmed sucralose’s safety for decades.”

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Fox News Digital reached out to manufacturers of sucralose-containing products requesting comment.

Heart disease is the No. 1 killer in America, accounting for one in five deaths, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

While multiple lifestyle factors can cause heart health to decline, nutrition is a large component, experts confirm.

In an on-camera interview with Fox News Digital, cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Jeremy London shared how nutrition can sometimes be a sensitive topic, as diets can work differently for every individual.

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A focus on general dietary guidelines, including eating whole foods and avoiding processed foods, is a great place to start, according to the Savannah, Georgia-based expert.

Reaping the benefits of nutrition for heart health is about balance, he said.

“If I can eat whole foods 80% of the time, that’s a win for me,” he said. “And I think that’s reasonable.”

Hydration is also an important component of heart health, London said. He recommends reaching for more water and limiting alcohol consumption.

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“That being said, your body, your rules, as long as you know the facts,” he commented. “Alcohol is a personal choice, but it’s really toxic to every cell in the body.”

“From a nutritional standpoint, be mindful of what you’re putting in your mouth — try and focus on whole foods and limit alcohol or remove it altogether.”

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends filling half of your plate with fruits and vegetables. (iStock)

Diet is especially important for those with heart health-related conditions such as high cholesterol, London said, as they should limit foods high in saturated fat.

Some foods, such as eggs, have been linked to high cholesterol in the past, but recent research has revealed that eggs can be a heart-healthy food.

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London commented that eggs are a “wonderful nutritional source,” but added that the nutritional “pendulum” should always stay at the center.

“If I can eat whole foods 80% of the time, that’s a win for me.”

“The dietary portion of the endogenous cholesterol (produced naturally inside the body) is maybe not as important as we had thought previously,” he said.

“There are people who are ‘hyper responders’ and should avoid those situations, but [otherwise], eggs in moderation are a great source of protein and certain vitamins and minerals that you can’t get elsewhere.”

London called eggs a “wonderful nutritional source,” but some people with certain conditions should eat them in moderation. (iStock)

Individuals with high cholesterol and other heart conditions should limit refined flours and sugars, London suggested, as there’s a “direct correlation between blood glucose and triglyceride levels.”

Exercise is also an important component for better balance and results, experts agree.

What’s the 80/20 rule?

The 80/20 approach has been endorsed by experts as a proven concept for healthy eating.

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A recent medically reviewed article by WebMD detailed how eating healthy meals 80% of the time allows for “more freedom” with the other 20%. The approach can affect weight differently depending on how it’s done.

“Because the 80/20 diet features a healthy, balanced diet with a few splurges, it may help you shed a few pounds if you use it to cut down on fattening foods and watch your calories,” the article states. “Anytime you burn more calories than you take in, you’re likely to lose weight.”

An 80/20 approach to nutrition can be enough to support a healthy heart, according to experts. (iStock)

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s federal diet guidelines recommend filling half of your plate with fruits and vegetables, making half of your grains whole grain, varying lean protein, and including a serving of low-fat or fat-free dairy.

Sugars, sodium and saturated fats should all be limited, the guidelines state.

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Individuals with specific conditions, such as diabetes, should consult their doctor before starting the 80/20 eating plan.

A common artificial sweetener could make cancer treatments less effective, a new study has found.

Sucralose, a sweetener found in many diet sodas, low-calorie snacks and powdered sugar substitutes, could interfere with immunotherapy in cancer patients, according to research from the University of Pittsburgh and UPMC Hillman Cancer Center.

The study included 132 patients with melanoma (a deadly form of skin cancer) and nonsmall cell lung cancer (the most common type of lung cancer).

YOUR DAILY DIET SODA COULD BE AGING YOUR BRAIN FASTER THAN YOU THINK, STUDY FINDS

All patients were taking anti-PD1 (a type of immunotherapy), either alone or in combination with chemotherapy. 

They all completed dietary questionnaires that indicated the volume of artificial sweeteners they consumed.

The researchers found that the patients who consumed high levels of sucralose had a “worse response” to immunotherapy and “poorer survival” than those who consumed low amounts, according to a press release.

“We found that sucralose impeded the effectiveness of immunotherapies across a range of cancer types, stages and treatment modalities,” said senior author Diwakar Davar, associate professor of medicine at Pitt and a medical oncologist and hematologist at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, in the release.

SUGAR SUBSTITUTES CAN CAUSE BRAIN CHANGES THAT INCREASE APPETITE, STUDY SAYS

“These observations raise the possibility of designing prebiotics, such as targeted nutrient supplementation for patients who consume high levels of sucralose.” 

The findings were published in Cancer Discovery, a journal by the American Association for Cancer Research.

“It’s easy to say, ‘Stop drinking diet soda,’ but when patients are being treated for cancer, they are already dealing with enough.”

On a positive note, the researchers also found that taking supplements to increase levels of the amino acid arginine counteracted those effects and boosted the effectiveness of immunotherapy, as seen in a study of mice.

“It’s easy to say, ‘Stop drinking diet soda,’ but when patients are being treated for cancer, they are already dealing with enough, so asking them to drastically alter their diet may not be realistic,” said lead author Abby Overacre, assistant professor in the Department of Immunology at Pitt and UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, in the release. 

Sucralose is a sweetener found in many diet sodas, low-calorie snacks and powdered sugar substitutes. (iStock)

“We need to meet patients where they are. That’s why it’s so exciting that arginine supplementation could be a simple approach to counteract the negative effects of sucralose on immunotherapy.”

In the mouse study, the sucralose was shown to alter the gut microbiome in a way that reduced levels of arginine. This amino acid is essential for T-cell function, which is a key component of immunotherapy drugs.

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“When arginine levels were depleted due to sucralose-driven shifts in the microbiome, T cells couldn’t function properly,” said Overacre. “As a result, immunotherapy wasn’t as effective in mice that were fed sucralose.” 

“For people undergoing cancer treatment, all guidance should come from their healthcare team.”

Looking ahead, the researchers plan to launch a clinical trial investigating arginine supplementation in human cancer patients. They will also explore the potential impact of other sugar substitutes on immunotherapy effectiveness.

The study was supported by the National Institutes of Health, the Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation and Gateway for Cancer Research.

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The Calorie Control Council provided the below statement to Fox News Digital.

“For people undergoing cancer treatment, all guidance should come from their healthcare team,” said Carla Saunders, president of the council.

The researchers found that the patients who consumed high levels of sucralose had a “worse response” to immunotherapy and “poorer survival” than those who consumed low amounts. (iStock)

“This study has several limitations, relying on animal research that cannot be directly applied to humans, and [is] a small observational study in humans using self-reported dietary data, which is often subject to misreporting, underreporting and bias. While continued research is critical, scientific regulatory authorities worldwide, including the FDA, have repeatedly confirmed sucralose’s safety for decades.”

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Fox News Digital reached out to manufacturers of sucralose-containing products requesting comment.

Researchers believe they may have the next, better version of Ozempic in the works.

At Tufts University, scientists have developed a new drug that aims to boost weight loss while also reducing the nausea, muscle loss and weight regain associated with popular GLP-1 medications.

The goal is for the “quadruple-action” medication to achieve long-lasting weight loss of up to 30% — matching the effectiveness of bariatric surgery, which reduces the size of the stomach, according to a study press release.

COULD GLP-1 WEIGHT-LOSS MEDICATIONS LIKE OZEMPIC BECOME THE ‘EVERYTHING DRUG’?

How the drug is different

Semaglutide medications, like Ozempic and Wegovy, mimic the natural hormone GLP‑1 (glucagon‑like peptide‑1), while tirzepatides (such as Mounjaro and Zepbound) target both GLP-1 receptors and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors.

The new medication from Tufts targets a combination of four hormones — GLP-1, GIP, glucagon (the counterpart to insulin), and peptide YY, which reduces hunger, slows stomach emptying and may promote fat-burning.

“We built a single experimental peptide that works like four hormones at once, so we’re not pushing one button too hard,” lead author Tristan Dinsmore, PhD, a researcher at Tufts University, told Fox News Digital.

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“Instead, we’re nudging four ‘dimmer switches’ together to manage appetite, blood sugar and energy use.”

Because GLP‑1 and PYY can contribute to nausea at higher doses, the researchers relied on GIP, which is known to ease nausea, to “balance things out,” Dinsmore said.

“We built a single experimental peptide that works like four hormones at once, so we’re not pushing one button too hard.”

“Beyond helping with fullness and glucose control, GIP signaling has anti‑nausea effects — it can even block nausea in preclinical models, which is why we prioritize it in the mix,” he went on.

“By adding PYY to the GLP‑1/GIP/glucagon trio, we hope to rely less on GLP‑1 and glucagon to drive weight loss, potentially lowering the chance of nausea (from GLP‑1/PYY) and high blood sugar risk (from glucagon) while keeping the benefits.”

Because GLP‑1 and PYY can contribute to nausea at higher doses, the researchers relied on GIP, which is known to ease nausea, to “balance things out,” one of the researchers said. (iStock)

The medication is still in the experimental/preclinical stage and has not yet been tested in human trials.

The drug’s development was published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society.

Doctors react

Dr. Brett Osborn, a Florida neurosurgeon and longevity expert, is a strong advocate for GLP-1 medications.

“There are plenty of highly effective GLP-1 agonists right in front of us.”

“Single-agent GLP-1s like Ozempic work for most people,” Osborn, who was not involved in the Tufts study, told Fox News Digital. “Side effects are manageable when an experienced physician supervises you.”

“We don’t need more medications to treat the same chronic problem that has increasingly burdened the world,” he added. “There are plenty of highly effective GLP-1 agonists right in front of us.”

Obesity is estimated to affect over 40% of American adults and has been linked to dozens of diseases, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, sleep apnea, high blood pressure and several types of cancer. (iStock)

The biggest risks with GLP-1s is muscle loss and malnutrition from undereating, he said. To prevent this, the doctor emphasizes the need for adequate daily protein and consistent strength training.

To treat the “chronic” disease of obesity, Osborn recommends microdosing or intermittent dosing of GLP-1s, paired with nutrition, progressive resistance training, hydration and sleep. 

MEDITERRANEAN DIET PAIRED WITH OTHER LIFESTYLE CHANGES SLASHES DIABETES RISK

“Essentially, use the medicine that works and combine it with disciplined habits,” he advised. “I’ve used this approach for years, as have many of my patients, with excellent long-term tolerance.”

Sue Decotiis, M.D., a medical weight loss doctor in New York City, noted that controlling appetite, enhancing metabolism and increasing fat burning — while also balancing the interactions of blood sugar and insulin — is a “complex function.”

“Even with new mechanisms added to weight-loss medications, individual patients will have varied responses in the amount of fat they lose,” one expert said. (iStock)

“The additional mechanisms offered by new drugs may help some, but not necessarily most weight-loss patients,” Decotiis, who was also not involved in the study, told Fox News Digital.

“Even with new mechanisms added to weight-loss medications, individual patients will have varied responses in the amount of fat they lose.” 

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She noted that her patients who take GLP-1s do not typically experience muscle and bone loss. 

“Good care in medical weight loss should include following patients with a body composition scale and monitoring protein, fiber and excellent hydration,” she said.

Limitations and future research

There were some limitations of the new drug, the researchers acknowledged.

“The additional mechanisms offered by new drugs may help some, but not necessarily most weight-loss patients.”

“This is design research that showcases the potential for the next generation and perhaps even tailored drugs,” Dinsmore told Fox News Digital. “Our data come from cell‑based assays, not animals or humans (yet).”

“Choosing the safest, most effective balance of the four pathways will require in‑vivo (living) studies and clinical trials.”

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People using GLP‑1‑based drugs should stick with their clinician’s guidance, Dinsmore advised.

“This is not a medicine you can get today,” he said of the new medication. “Our work is a next‑generation concept that aims to improve results and reduce nausea by spreading the work across four hormones rather than overloading one.”

Obesity is estimated to affect over 40% of American adults and has been linked to dozens of diseases, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, sleep apnea, high blood pressure and several types of cancer.

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“What drives us is the idea that we can design a single drug to treat obesity and simultaneously mitigate the risk of developing a long list of health problems plaguing society,” said co-study author Krishna Kumar, Robinson Professor of Chemistry at Tufts.

Long-distance running, like marathons and ultramarathons, may not always be the health badge we thought it was. In fact, it could increase your cancer risk, according to a new study out of Virginia.

Dr. Timothy Cannon of the Inova Schar Cancer Institute began work on the study, which was presented at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting in Chicago, after noticing ultramarathoners under 40 were showing up with advanced colon cancer. 

To dig deeper, he launched a study of runners who had completed at least five marathons or two ultramarathons, excluding those with family history or other known risk factors.

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“The study supports the hypothesis that extreme endurance runners have an increased risk of precancerous polyps,” Cannon told Fox News Digital.

Researchers examined 100 participants between the ages of 35 and 50 who had never undergone a colonoscopy but had completed at least five marathons or two ultramarathons. Individuals with hereditary cancer syndromes or inflammatory bowel disease were excluded to keep the focus on the potential impact of endurance exercise alone.

COLORECTAL CANCER MAY CAUSE THESE 4 HIDDEN WARNING SIGNS, EXPERTS SAY

Each participant had a colonoscopy done during the study. They also completed a survey about dietary habits, bowel history and long-distance running patterns.

He found that 15% had advanced adenomas, or pre-cancerous colon growths, compared to the normal 1–2% for their age group. Even more, a staggering 41% had at least one adenoma.

Each participant had a colonoscopy done during the study. (iStock)

Any growths discovered during the procedures were reviewed by a panel of gastroenterologists, pathologists and oncologists to determine if they met the criteria for advanced adenomas.

COLORECTAL CANCER DIAGNOSES SOAR AMONG YOUNGER ADULTS FOR ONE KEY REASON

“I was surprised by just how many of the runners had polyps,” said Cannon.

“I thought they may have more adenomas and advanced adenomas than expected for that age group… but I did not imagine that 15% would have advanced adenoma.”

The average age of the participants was 42.5, well below the typical screening age of 45.

Cannon says he “did not imagine” that 15% of subjects would have advanced adenoma, explaining the number was much larger than anticipated. (iStock)

Cannon and other experts theorize that intense endurance training might cause repeated “gut stress.” During prolonged runs, blood gets diverted away from the intestines, possibly triggering damage and inflammation. Over time, that might lead to mutations and polyps.

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Experts caution the results aren’t definitive, noting the study lacks a control group and hasn’t yet undergone peer review. Still, the numbers might make you sit up and pay attention.

“We did not have a control group, so this raises the question as to whether or not there is some bias,” said the doctor, adding that the runners were mostly from the Washington DC area, and may have other common risk factors outside of running.

According to Cannon’s patients, many gastroenterologists dismiss bleeding after running as a normal event. (iStock)

He also acknowledged the research didn’t account for detailed family histories, which could have influenced the results.

‘WESTERN DIET’ BLAMED FOR GROWING RISK OF GI CANCERS AMONG YOUNG ADULTS

Despite the results, it’s not a sign to ditch running completely.

“Let me first say that people should continue exercising,” Cannon stressed. “We have far more problems from not exercising than from exercising too much.” 

He added that exercise decreases your risk of cancer overall, despite this study supporting the idea that extreme doses of exercise, such as ultramarathons, may increase risk of cancer. 

The research did not account for detailed family histories. (iStock)

For those running extreme distances, it’s important to monitor symptoms such as bleeding, persistent diarrhea or abdominal pain.

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Bleeding after running is not to be considered normal or benign and someone experiencing it should seek medical attention.

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“As far as I know, there is no expert body of gastroenterologists that have stated that any rectal bleeding or blood in stool is not a cause for concern,” said Cannon. 

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“However, my patients are telling me that, in practice, many gastroenterologists dismiss bleeding after running as a normal event.”

A new study suggests that bringing your smartphone into the bathroom could raise your risk of hemorrhoids by nearly 50%.

Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) in Boston found that adults who use their phones while sitting on the toilet face a 46% higher risk of developing the painful condition, according to findings published this week in the journal PLOS One.

The study surveyed 125 adults undergoing colonoscopies and compared their bathroom habits. Of the participants, 66% admitted to using their phones on the toilet. 

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People who said they took their phone into the bathroom were 46% more likely to have hemorrhoids compared to the others, regardless of age, weight, sex or fiber intake. 

Hemorrhoids, swollen veins in or around the rectum and anus that can cause pain, itching and bleeding, are often linked to straining during bowel movements and prolonged sitting on the toilet.

About 37% of participants who brought their phones into the bathroom sat for longer than five minutes, while only 7% of non-users lingered that long.

Younger adults, particularly those in their 40s and 50s, were especially prone to the habit compared to those over 60. Respondents said they typically used their phones to read news, scroll social media or send texts and emails.

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“Whether someone is reading email or playing a game, the risk likely comes from how long they’re sitting,” said lead author Dr. Chethan Ramprasad, a gastroenterologist at Beth Israel Deaconess and faculty member at Harvard Medical School. 

The risk remained even when researchers accounted for other factors, including straining, fiber intake and exercise routines.

Researchers surveyed 125 adults undergoing colonoscopies at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. (Sophie Park/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

“This extended duration may be linked to the passive engagement that smartphones facilitate, potentially resulting in prolonged sitting and increased pressure in the hemorrhoidal cushions,” the researchers wrote.

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Toilets keep the rectum and pelvic floor unsupported compared to sitting in a chair, causing more pressure on rectal veins, according to the researchers.

Ramprasad noted that posture can also play a role and that toilet stools, which prop up the feet and put the body in a more natural squatting position to help eliminate straining, can help, but do not solve the underlying problem.

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“Tools like a Squatty Potty can reduce straining, but they won’t offset the risk of just sitting too long,” he said. “If you’re on your phone for 10 minutes, you’re still exposing those veins to pressure.”

Adults who bring their phones into the bathroom face nearly a 50% higher risk of hemorrhoids, according to a new study. (iStock)

Hemorrhoids are among the most frequent gastrointestinal complaints in the United States, sending nearly 4 million people to clinics and emergency rooms each year, according to BIDMC. 

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The researchers called for long-term studies to confirm causality and explore prevention strategies. And while younger participants were more likely to use their phones and had higher hemorrhoid prevalence, they can’t say yet if that is because of phone use specifically or other age-related behavior.

In the meantime, Ramprasad advises to keep things moving.

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“Do what you need to do, then stand up and move on,” he said. “Don’t turn the bathroom into a scrolling break.”

Helen Mirren, 80, remains a glowing testament to the power of consistency — and not just in her acting. 

The celebrated Oscar-winning actress recently revealed that she still engages in a 12‑minute daily military workout that she claims to have followed faithfully for over 60 years.

Developed in the late 1950s by Dr. Bill Orban for the Royal Canadian Air Force, the XBX (Ten Basic Exercises) plan was originally created to help female air force personnel boost their overall fitness without gyms or fancy equipment.

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Mirren recently told Women’s Health she is a “big believer” in the system and praised its accessibility.

The XBX regimen consists of four progressive charts, each containing 10 exercises, according to multiple health experts.

Users advance through 48 levels in total (12 levels per chart). While the time it takes to complete each exercise stays the same as you move upward, the number of repetitions increases.

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The original RCAF pamphlet includes a foreword praising the method and roots it firmly in the public health goals of that era. 

It emphasizes that physical fitness is less about bulging muscles and more about vitality, agility, strength and mental resilience.

How it works

Below is a breakdown of how the workout plan is structured.

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• Exercises 1-4 serve as a warmup, improving flexibility and mobility (2 minutes total)
• Exercise 5 targets the abs and thighs (2 minutes)
• Exercise 6 focuses on the back, glutes and hamstrings (1 minute)
• Exercise 7 works the side thighs (1 minute)
• Exercise 8 strengthens the arms, chest and shoulders (2 minutes)
• Exercise 9 builds waist flexibility and hip/side strength (1 minute)
• Exercise 10 is a cardio finisher (run/jump for 3 minutes)

The XBX routine was developed in the late 1950s for use in Royal Canadian Air Force training. (iStock)

Mirren, who admits she typically stays within the first two charts and has “never gotten past the second level,” appreciates that users can begin gently and gradually adjust the plan to meet their needs.

Los Angeles-based celebrity personal trainer Kollins Ezekh said the key benefits of the XBX program are its simplicity and practicality.

The strict 12-minute framework could appeal to those with busy schedules looking for a quick workout. (iStock)

“You don’t need a gym, equipment or even much time — it’s just 12 minutes a day,” he told Fox News Digital. “That makes it realistic for busy people who struggle to stay consistent with workouts.”

“The routine covers strength, flexibility and endurance, so you’re getting a well-rounded session even though it’s short,” he added.

“It’s a great reminder that fitness doesn’t always have to be complicated.”

For those trying it for the first time, Ezekh said it’s important to pace themselves.

“People tend to want results fast, but if you skip ahead too quickly, you increase the risk of injury or burnout,” he warned. “I’d recommend treating it like a marathon, not a sprint — take the time to build a strong foundation.” 

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For older adults or people dealing with any health concerns, he recommends getting clearance from a doctor before getting started.

“Overall, I think it’s a great reminder that fitness doesn’t always have to be complicated,” Ezekh said. “A little consistency every day goes a long way.”

There are three active cases of tuberculosis in Maine as of this week as TB continues to increase across the country, the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention reported, according to the Portland Press Herald.

Lindsay Hammes, spokesperson for the agency, said it is “aware of three active TB cases with links to the Greater Portland area and is in the midst of conducting our typical response.” 

She said the Maine CDC was working to reach anyone who might have come into contact with any of the infected patients so they can be tested.

Hammes added that each case appears to be contracted from a separate source. 

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Fox News Digital has reached out to the Maine CDC for comment. 

While not as contagious as the flu or COVID-19, tuberculosis is the world’s deadliest infectious disease, killing more than one million people each year, according to the World Health Organization. 

A high school student in Riverside County in California also tested positive for an active case of TB this week, officials said, but is receiving treatment and is excited to make a full recovery, KTLA-TV reported. 

Last week, another active case was reported at a high school in Michigan, WWJ-TV reported.

An illustration of tuberculosis bacteria.  (Getty)

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After decades of decline, tuberculosis cases began to tick up in 2021, following a large decline in 2020, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported in 2022, and the trend has continued since then. 

In Maine, the state CDC reported there have been 28 cases of TB this year through the end of July, according to the Herald, but stressed there is no outbreak. 

Not everyone infected with TB gets symptoms, but those with active cases can suffer from a persistent cough, including coughing up blood or sputum, chest pain, fever, and fatigue. 

Healthcare worker wearing a protective TB mask and washing her hands. (Getty)

TB is a bacterial infection that targets the lungs, but can also infect other organs, and is spread from person to person through the air, according to Johns Hopkins. 

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The disease is curable with antibiotics. 

Your favorite diet soda could have a detrimental effect on your cognitive health, a new study suggests.

In a Brazilian study published in the journal Neurology, participants who consumed the highest amount of artificial sweeteners were found to have “significantly faster declines” in thinking and memory skills.

Researchers determined that the highest-consuming group lost about 1.6 years in extra brain aging, with a 62% faster decline.

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The groups at highest risk were younger adults under 60 and people with diabetes. Those older than 60 did not appear to be affected.

In the study, researchers tracked 12,772 adults averaging 52 years old for an eight-year period. The participants filled out questionnaires about what they ate and drank.

The researchers focused on the consumption of seven artificial sweeteners found in soda, energy drinks, flavored water, yogurt and low-calorie desserts.

The specific sweeteners included in the study were aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame-K, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol and tagatose, according to the study’s press release.

Among those who consumed the sweeteners, the highest group had an average of 191 milligrams per day, while the lowest group consumed an average of 20 milligrams.

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The groups also completed cognitive tests at various points throughout the study to assess memory, language and thinking skills.

All of the sweeteners except tagatose were associated with a faster decline in cognition, especially memory, the researchers found.

The specific sweeteners included in the study were aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame-K, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol and tagatose. (iStock)

“People often believe artificial sweeteners are a safer alternative to sugar, but our results suggest they may not be harmless, particularly when consumed frequently and starting in midlife,” study author Claudia Kimie Suemoto of the University of São Paulo in Brazil, told Fox News Digital. 

“While more research is needed, our findings highlight the importance of looking carefully at what we use to replace sugar in our diets. The best message for the public is to reduce both added sugars and artificial sweeteners, and whenever possible, choose natural options and focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods.” 

“Our results suggest that midlife exposure to sweeteners may be particularly harmful.”

The researchers had expected the association to be more evident in older adults, since they are at higher risk of dementia and cognitive impairment. 

“Instead, our results suggest that midlife exposure to sweeteners may be particularly harmful, which is important because midlife is a critical period for setting the trajectory of brain health,” Suemoto said. 

The groups at highest risk were younger adults under 60 and people with diabetes. Those older than 60 did not appear to be affected. (iStock)

“Cognitive decline and dementia are thought to begin developing decades before symptoms become noticeable, so exposures during midlife may accelerate these processes and have long-term consequences.”

Based on these findings, the researchers recommend that the safest approach is to reduce artificial sweetener consumption as much as possible, ideally avoiding them altogether. 

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“Instead of relying on artificial sweeteners, people can try other ways to add flavor and sweetness, such as using fruits, honey or maple syrup in moderation,” Suemoto advised. “This not only avoids the potential risks we observed, but also encourages a more natural and balanced diet.”

Dr. Brintha Vasagar, a family physician based in Milwaukee, was not involved in the study but shared her reaction to the findings.

Instead of diet soda, experts recommend opting for water, which can be infused with cucumber, mint or fruit for added flavor.  (iStock)

“For some people, the benefit of avoiding sugars in the diet will outweigh the risks of artificial sugars, and your family medicine physician can help you determine what is best for you,” she told Fox News Digital. 

“For most people, however, natural sugars are the safest option. Artificial sugars can change your perception of sweet, leading you to consume more sugars to feel the same satisfaction.”

“While there is a link between artificial sweeteners and brain health, we do not have data that shows causation.”

Most experts recommend consuming less than one serving a day, ideally for a short period of time, or only once every few weeks, she said.

Instead of diet soda, Vasagar recommends opting for water, which can be infused with cucumber, mint or fruit for added flavor. 

“Fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts and cheese are all healthy options for snacks without added sugars,” she said.

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For those who have diabetes and use artificial sweeteners, she recommends seeing a physician for help creating an individual plan. 

“Some artificial sweeteners can actually raise blood sugar,” she pointed out. “In general, even people with diabetes should strive for moderation in using artificial sweeteners.”

Limitations and further research 

The study had several limitations, the researchers acknowledged.

“The dietary assessment was made only at the study baseline,” Suemoto told Fox News Digital. “We adjusted the statistical analyses for several factors, but residual confounding may still be present, which is common when we are trying to control other dietary behaviors and health conditions.”

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The study also did not include all artificial sweeteners, and the self-reported dietary data may have been limited by the participants’ ability to recall exactly what they consumed.

More research is needed in other groups and using other tools, Suemoto said, such as neuroimaging to see whether specific brain lesions are linked to sweetener use.

The researchers had expected the association to be more evident in older adults, since they are at higher risk of dementia and cognitive impairment.  (iStock)

Vasagar agreed that more studies are essential to determining whether artificial sugars are the cause of dementia and memory loss.

“It’s important to note that while there is a link between artificial sweeteners and brain health, we do not have data that shows causation,” she reiterated.

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The Calorie Control Council provided the below statement to Fox News Digital.

“Low/no-calorie sweeteners are among the most scrutinized ingredients and consistently have been confirmed as safe for decades by global health authorities, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the European Food Safety Authority,” said Carla Saunders, president of the CCC. 

Researchers determined that the highest-consuming group lost about 1.6 years in extra brain aging, with a 62% faster decline. (iStock)

“This study has notable limitations, including reliance on self-reported dietary data collected only at baseline. While the authors admit finding no causal evidence, it risks misleading the millions with diabetes who rely on low/no-calorie sweeteners as recommended by the American Diabetes Association and other global health experts.”

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The study was supported by the Brazilian Ministry of Health; the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation; and the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development.

More wild animals are getting infected with rabies, which poses a public health threat, officials warn.

Around 75% of Americans are exposed to raccoons, skunks and foxes — the very wildlife that commonly spread the fatal disease to humans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The latest report from the CDC’s National Rabies Surveillance System, which monitors rabies trends in the U.S., found that wildlife cases increased 5% in 2023 over the prior year.

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“Currently, the CDC Rabies Program is tracking 15 rabies outbreak events,” Paul Prince, a CDC spokesperson, told Fox News Digital. “There are likely many more rabies outbreaks across the U.S., but these are managed at the local or state level.”

Nassau County in New York declared an imminent public health alert this summer after confirming 22 cases this year compared to just six last year — a more than three-fold increase.

“These cases reflect a troubling resurgence of terrestrial rabies, which had been successfully eliminated from Nassau County after 2016 through coordinated intervention efforts,” Alyssa Zohrabian, director of the Office of Communications of Nassau County Department of Health, told Fox News Digital. 

What is rabies?

Rabies is a virus that is transmitted to humans by a bite or scratch from a rabid animal, according to the CDC.

It can sometimes take weeks or months to reach a diagnosis, because the infection only causes symptoms after it travels to the brain and spinal cord.

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Severe disease, however, often presents within two weeks of illness, causing confusion, agitation and hallucinations, the above source states.

People may initially feel like they have the flu, complaining of a fever, headache or weakness. Another clue is pain or numbness at the site of the bite.

“Recent cases likely do not indicate a national human rabies outbreak, but a reminder that rabies is still a public health threat.”

“Classic rabies” causes someone to feel very thirsty, while paradoxically feeling a sense of panic at the sight of fluids. Someone may also produce lots of saliva and exhibit aggressive behavior.

Rabies is almost always fatal after symptoms — but it is also nearly 100% preventable.

Around 75% of Americans are exposed to raccoons, skunks and foxes, which commonly spread rabies to humans. (iStock)

After a rabies exposure, people should seek immediate preventative medical care, known as post-exposure prophylaxis, which involves thoroughly cleaning the wound and receiving a rabies vaccination. 

People can also receive neutralizing antibodies to fight the infection, experts advise.

Why are wildlife cases increasing?

“The CDC, at least in part, attributes this to human translocation of animals into areas where rabies had not been or was in very low incidence,” Dr. Edward R. Rensimer, a specialist in infectious diseases with expertise in rabies prevention, told Fox News Digital. 

“This has prompted an increase in some states in allocation of funds for rabies vaccine bait placement for wildlife,” added Rensimer, who is also the director of the International Medicine Center in Houston, Texas. 

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The Nassau County Department of Health launched the first phase of its reinstituted oral rabies vaccine baiting program in fall 2024, with a second round in spring and a third planned for this fall.

“When there are cutbacks in animal control and prevention of rabies efforts, invariably that can lead to increased incidence of rabies in wild animals, with the tragic potential [for] cases in humans,” Aaron Glatt, chief of infectious diseases at Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital on Long Island, New York, told Fox News Digital. 

After a rabies exposure, people should seek immediate preventative medical care, known as post-exposure prophylaxis, which involves thoroughly cleaning the wound and receiving a rabies vaccination.  (iStock)

“Fortunately, there are only a handful of human rabies cases reported annually, and there is an effective vaccine that can be given to patients after an at-risk animal bite.”

Six people have died from rabies in the U.S. over the last year, with two of those deaths in 2025, the CDC spokesperson told Fox News Digital.

“Recent cases likely do not indicate a national human rabies outbreak, but a reminder that rabies is still a public health threat in the U.S. and abroad,” he added.  

Which animals get rabies?

More than 90% of reported cases of rabies in animals are from wild animals — most frequently bats, according to the CDC.

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Depending on where they live, Americans are also at risk of exposure to other wildlife. 

“There are over 30 different rabies viruses in the U.S., all associated with wildlife,” the CDC spokesperson told Fox News Digital. “Each of these viral variants has a unique animal species and geographic range, and can have its own specific outbreaks.”

Only a small percentage of rabies cases in the U.S. affect domestic animals, such as dogs and cats, according to experts — but it’s not outside the realm of possibility. (iStock)

Those who live in the eastern U.S. have some of the highest risks of being exposed to rabies from raccoons in the area.

Skunks pose a high risk for rabies in the Midwest and Western U.S., and foxes present a danger for people who live in the Southwestern part of the country as well as Alaska, per the CDC.

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Rabies in skunks increased in Kentucky in 2024 to 2025, and there were rabies outbreaks among foxes in Arizona and California in 2023, Rensimer added. 

Rabies is present in wildlife in all states except Hawaii, according to the CDC spokesperson.

Can pets get rabies?

Only a small percentage of rabies cases in the U.S. affect domestic animals, such as dogs and cats, according to experts — but it’s not outside the realm of possibility.

“Pets that mostly stay inside a home may seem like they are at low risk to get rabies, but rabid wildlife can get into our homes and backyards even if we don’t see them,” the CDC spokesperson cautioned.

“The best way to avoid rabies is to stay away from wildlife.”

“Our pets are more likely than us to interact with wildlife, and they are often unable to tell us when they’ve been exposed.”

A stray puppy and two stray cats tested positive for rabies in Philadelphia this year, James Garrow, communications director for the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, told Fox News Digital. 

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It is important to keep pets up to date on vaccinations — both to protect their health and to prevent transmission to humans, experts agree. 

Nassau County Department of Health, in partnership with the Town of Oyster Bay, is offering free rabies vaccinations for dogs, cats and ferrets to all county residents on Saturday, Sept. 13.

“The best way to avoid rabies is to stay away from wildlife,” Glatt reiterated.

A new study has discovered another way to potentially prevent COVID-19.

Researchers at Saarland University in Germany headed a clinical trial that found a nasal spray could reduce the risk of coronavirus infection by two-thirds.

The phase 2 study, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, ran from March 2023 to July 2024 at Saarland University Hospital.

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The 450 healthy adult participants were randomly assigned to receive either the azelastine nasal spray or a placebo, three times per day for 56 days.

The researchers conducted SARS-CoV-2 rapid antigen testing twice a week to diagnose infection. People who had symptoms but received negative antigen test results underwent multiple PCR tests for respiratory viruses.

Among the 227 individuals who received the azelastine nasal spray, rates of confirmed COVID infection were “significantly lower” at 2.2%, compared with 6.7% for the placebo group.

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The researchers also noted an increase in the period before infection for the people taking azelastine. In these patients, the medication was linked to a lower rate of PCR-confirmed symptomatic infections and fewer confirmed rhinovirus infections (the primary cause of the common cold).

Azelastine nasal spray may also help prevent other respiratory viruses, the researchers found. (iStock)

“In this single-center trial, azelastine nasal spray was associated with reduced risk of SARS-CoV-2 respiratory infections,” the researchers wrote.

Azelastine has been available as an over-the-counter treatment for hay fever, according to a press release from Saarland University, and has previously been suggested to have an anti-viral effect against COVID and other respiratory viruses.

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Lead trial researcher Professor Robert Bals, director of the Department of Internal Medicine at Saarland University Medical Center, commented in a statement that the trial has demonstrated azelastine’s impact in a “real-world setting.”

Azelastine led to a reduction in the number of PCR-confirmed symptomatic infections, according to the study. (iStock)

“Azelastine nasal spray could provide an additional, easily accessible prophylactic to complement existing protective measures, especially for vulnerable groups, during periods of high infection rates or before traveling,” he went on.

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“Our results highlight the need for larger, multicenter trials to continue exploring the use of azelastine nasal sprays as an on-demand preventive treatment, and to examine its potential effectiveness against other respiratory pathogens.”

Fox News Digital reached out to the researchers for comment.

A little-known disease is spreading in the U.S., primarily in the state of California, health officials warn.

In a new study published in the CDC journal Emerging Infectious Diseases, researchers state that human cases of Chagas disease have been confirmed in eight states, leading them to recommend that the disease is classified as “endemic.”

“Acknowledging the endemicity of Chagas disease in the United States is crucial for achieving global health goals,” the authors wrote.

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines a disease as “endemic” when there is a “constant presence and/or usual prevalence” in a population within a specific geographic area — in other words, the “baseline” level of disease within a community.

“Chagas disease (or American trypanosomiasis) is already endemic in South America and Central America, but it has now spread to the Southern U.S., where it is taking hold among insects and animals,” Fox News senior medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel told Fox News Digital.

What is Chagas disease?

Chagas disease is a parasitic illness spread by triatomine bugs, also known as “kissing bugs,” according to the CDC.

The disease is transmitted when feces from bugs infected with the T. cruzi parasite enter a person’s body, typically through a bite wound or contact with the eyes or mouth.

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“When the kissing bug takes a blood meal, it will eventually defecate and leave the feces somewhere,” lead study author Dr. Norman Beatty, assistant professor of medicine at the University of Florida College of Medicine, told Fox News Digital.  

“Sometimes it can ‘poop’ on our skin or mucous membrane while feeding, and then the parasite enters at that site. The bug’s feces can also end up inside or near a home and then be incidentally ingested or rubbed into the skin or mucous membrane.”

“Chagas can lead to fever, fatigue, rash, body aches and lymph node swelling, and later can lead to digestive issues, heart problems and neurological involvement,” a doctor warned. (iStock)

Transmission in the U.S. can also occur from congenital infection, where a chronically infected mother can transmit the parasite to a fetus, or from organ transplantation, according to Beatty.

Signs and symptoms

The first stage of Chagas disease, called the acute phase, happens shortly after infection. It is followed by the longer-term chronic phase, according to the CDC.

The disease does not always cause illness, but some people can experience symptoms.

“Chagas can lead to fever, fatigue, rash, body aches and lymph node swelling, and later can lead to digestive issues, heart problems and neurological involvement,” Siegel warned.

“What really matters is whether or not the kissing bug has been found invading homes and harbors the parasite.”

Another hallmark of the disease is eyelid swelling, also known as Romaña’s sign.

In the chronic phase, about 20% to 30% of people with the infection may experience potentially fatal heart issues or serious digestive problems, the CDC states.

Prevalence of the disease

Approximately 300,000 people are living with Chagas disease who acquired the infection in Latin America and the U.S., according to Beatty.

“However, the exact number is unknown — a national prevalence study has never been conducted,” he told Fox News Digital.

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The disease is more likely to occur in states where the kissing bug is found close to where people live, which includes parts of California, Arizona, Texas, Louisiana and Florida, according to the expert. 

“What really matters is whether the kissing bug has been found invading homes and harbors the parasite that causes Chagas disease in a particular region,” he said, adding that researchers are “just tipping the iceberg” with their understanding of locally-acquired disease in the U.S.

Lab screening tests and treatments are readily available, the researcher said, but clinicians are largely unaware that the disease is being transmitted. (iStock)

“Unfortunately, most of the United States is unaware of this ‘silent killer’ and the fact that it is spread by a bug,” he said. 

“Our first steps are recognizing that this is an endemic infectious disease, building on improved education among the public and healthcare providers, and allocating funding for research and programs to support testing and additional monitoring.”

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The expert refers to Chagas as a “neglected tropical disease.”

“Our hope as a team researching Chagas here in the U.S. is that we bring awareness to the fact that this infectious disease is being transmitted here and can be deadly,” he told Fox News Digital. “More research and resources are needed so we can help mitigate transmission to at-risk communities, especially those living in rural and agricultural sectors.”

Screening and treatments

In most circumstances, Beatty said, people are bitten by the bug in their bed or home. 

“From there, a person will reach out with a picture of that bug, and we start the process of testing and educating on how to prevent the insect from getting in the home and deterring it from wanting to be around a human dwelling.”

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Lab screening tests and treatments are readily available, Beatty said, but clinicians are largely unaware that the disease is being transmitted in certain communities. 

There are two antiparasitic drugs approved for the treatment of Chagas disease in the U.S. — Benznidazole and Lampit (nifurtimox).

In the chronic phase, about 20% to 30% of people with the infection may experience potentially fatal heart issues or serious digestive problems, the CDC states. (iStock)

“Currently, there is a clinical trial being conducted to assess a new agent for the treatment of Chagas at certain centers in the U.S. and Latin America,” Beatty said.

There are no vaccines currently available to prevent the disease.

It can be a challenge for patients in rural America to find a provider who understands this disease, Beatty noted.

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“In my clinic, people have traveled from other states to see me in Florida just because they have no one else near them willing to care for them,” the researcher said.

“It is essential that we start educating our future clinicians about Chagas disease and ways to test, treat and manage those infected.”

“People have traveled from other states to see me in Florida just because they have no one else near them willing to care for them.”

Beatty also shared some tips for preventing kissing bugs from entering the home.

That includes removing “harborages” of nesting animals near a home where rodents would reside, such as piles of wood or clutter.

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Sealing up door jambs, window seals and other entry points, as well as placing screens on windows and doors, can also be effective.

Beatty also recommends “judicial use” of residual pesticide-spraying near potential entry points, like door jambs and window perimeters.

Florida’s Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo has announced the Sunshine State is working to end all vaccine mandates.

In a joint press conference on Wednesday with Gov. Ron DeSantis, Ladapo said the Florida Department of Health (FDH), in conjunction with the governor’s office, will end “every last one” of the vaccine mandates for schoolchildren under Florida law. 

“Every last one of them is wrong and drips with disdain and slavery,” said Ladapo. “Who am I, as a government or anyone else, to tell you what you should put in your body? I don’t have that right. Your body is a gift from God.”

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DeSantis stressed that informed consent is essential, stating that “information given to individuals, where they can then make an informed decision, should be the bedrock of how we function in health and in medicine.”

Eight vaccinations are currently required for children attending childcare, preschool and K–12 schools in Florida, according to FDH.

For childcare facilities and preschools, diphtheria-tetanus-acellular pertussis (DTaP); IPV (polio); measles, mumps and rubella (MMR); varicella; Hib; pneumococcal conjugate; and hepatitis B shots are required.

DTaP (4-5 doses), IPV (4-5 doses), MMR (2 doses), hepatitis B (3 doses) and varicella (2 doses or prior infection) are required for K-12 students. In seventh grade, students must also get a dose of Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, acellular pertussis).

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Fox News senior medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel told Fox News Digital that mandates don’t work for some vaccines — specifically when a virus or other pathogens spread despite the immunization.

Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo said the Florida Department of Health (FDH), in conjunction with the governor’s office, will end “every last one” of the vaccine mandates for schoolchildren under Florida law.  (AP News)

“For vaccines that prevent transmission, such as with measles, mumps, rubella, varicella or polio — and where the virus itself carries the possibilities of severe outcomes — then school mandates make sense, since these viruses spread among schoolchildren,” he said.

In the example of measles, Siegel said, “the only way to achieve herd immunity is through vaccination, where the spread is stopped.”

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He added, “Those who can’t get that vaccine because they are immunocompromised (if it is a live virus vaccine, they can’t have it) are protected by those around them.”

Creating a community of immunity around highly contagious viruses through the use of vaccines is “responsible public health,” Siegel added.

CDC data shows that kindergarten vaccine exemptions increased to 3.6% nationwide during the 2024-2025 school year. (iStock)

While Florida would be the first to implement a state-wide vaccine ban, other states have proposed or passed similar legislation. 

During the 2024-2025 school season, vaccinations among kindergartners decreased for all reported vaccines from the year before, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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Vaccine exemptions from one or more vaccines among kindergartners increased to 3.6% from 3.3%.

Dr. Susan Kressly, the president of the American Academy of Pediatrics, emphasized the importance of childhood vaccines in a statement. “We are concerned that today’s announcement by Gov. DeSantis will put children in Florida public schools at higher risk for getting sick, and have ripple effects across their community,” Kressly said.

All those with questions about vaccinations should consult with their doctor.

There are numerous paths to living a longer, healthier life, mostly through physical activity, diet and other lifestyle factors.

But according to board-certified cardiovascular surgeon Dr. Jeremy London, the key to longevity could come down to two main metrics.

In a video posted to his more than one million followers on social media, London broke down how two factors – VO2 max and muscle mass – can help increase health span and lifespan.

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VO2 max is an indicator of how efficiently the body utilizes oxygen with intense exercise, said London, who is based in Savannah, Georgia.

“In other words, the health of your cardiovascular system,” he said. “Not surprising that it increases health span and lifespan.”

In an on-camera interview with Fox News Digital, London added that VO2 max is “statistically” the No. 1 indicator of longevity. (See the video at the top of this article.)

In comparing individuals with a low VO2 max to those with a higher VO2 max, scientists have identified “magnitudes of improvement” in reducing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, as well as increasing longevity.

“Even if you’ve never exercised, or if you haven’t exercised for a long time, you can still get benefits.”

A recent Harvard Medical School publication confirmed that a high VO2 correlates with better physical fitness and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.

“If you know your VO2 max, you can use it as a tool to help you exercise more efficiently,” the Harvard experts wrote.

“If you have a higher VO2 max, that means your heart and lungs are more effectively supplying blood to your muscles, and that your muscles are efficiently extracting and using oxygen from your blood. That’s why a high VO2 max is a good indicator of a high fitness level.”

Muscle mass is the next element that can impact longevity, London noted.

“It’s a close second, and plays a significant role in the ability to continue daily life activities as we age,” he told Fox News Digital. “The combination of the two is the magic sauce.”

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One reason is that muscle is a “glucose sink,” meaning it decreases the risk of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome.

When the body is ill, muscle mass can also secrete “myocines,” which are anti-inflammatory proteins that can decrease the severity of illnesses.

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“Muscle is so important for your functional capacity, being able to do the things you want to do in later years,” London said. “The deadlifts you do at 30 enable you to pick up the suitcase at 80.”

Starting a simple walking program can help increase muscle mass, the expert said. (iStock)

Building muscle mass doesn’t always require heavyweight training or strenuous exercise. In fact, London said he’s sometimes hesitant to use the word “exercise” at all.

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“Just move,” he said. “It could be dancing for some people, it could be swimming, it could be just going for a walk … It may just be body weight or yoga, or Pilates or whatever.”

The key is consistency, he emphasized, and finding a balance between what you need and what you enjoy doing for fitness and movement.

“Just moving,” even if it’s dancing, can help increase muscle mass in older individuals, the expert said. (iStock)

“There’s no one answer for everybody, but you just want to put your muscles under stress and strain so they can grow,” London went on. 

“The deadlifts you do at 30 enable you to pick up the suitcase at 80.”

“And you want to be moving on a regular basis during the week so that you’re getting your heart rate up to keep your VO2 max as high as it possibly can be, based on your age.”

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A simple walking program or body weight resistance training, he said, is “free, accessible and always available.”

London added, “The cool thing is, even if you’ve never exercised, or if you haven’t exercised for a long time, you can still get benefits.”

Gel manicures are a beauty staple for millions, lasting weeks without chips and staying glossy through work, workouts and everything in between. 

But as of Sept. 1, 2025, the European Union has banned a chemical used in many gel polishes, sparking safety concerns and uncertainty for nail salons, according to a press release.

The ingredient in question is Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO). This compound reacts under UV light to make the polish harden quickly and give it a glass-like finish.

The decision appears to stem from several studies linking TPO exposure to fertility issues. 

These studies often focused on animal subjects, not humans, but the EU uses a strict “better safe than sorry” approach when it comes to cosmetics.

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Regulators reclassified TPO as a Category 1B CMR substance, meaning it may cause cancer or reproductive harm. Under EU law, that triggered an automatic ban.

As a result, both the marketing and use of cosmetic products containing TPO — including in professional settings like nail salons — are strictly prohibited. 

Gel vs. regular polish

The key difference between gel and regular polish is the application process — and it’s not just the compounds people need to watch, according to Cleveland Clinic.

“The two products usually look identical, but while you simply wait for regular nail polish to dry on its own … gel nail polish quick-dries under a specialized UV or LED lamp in 60 to 90 seconds,” the site reads.

The ingredient Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO) reacts under UV light to make polish harden quickly and give it a glass-like finish. (iStock)

During a manicure, these lamps help to set gel manicures and dry polish. However, they also emit ultraviolet rays, which have been linked to skin cancer and premature aging, the above source stated.

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These rays penetrate deep into the skin and damage collagen. However, studies have shown that the connection between nail salon lamps and cancer appears weak or inconclusive.

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Salons in the EU must immediately stop using TPO products, even if they stocked up before the deadline, the release states.

Studies have shown that the connection between nail salon lamps and cancer appears weak or inconclusive. (iStock)

Technically, even old bottles of polish containing TPO aren’t legal after Sept. 1. The ban only applies in the EU for now.

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The good news for customers, however, is that gel nails aren’t going away. 

Brands are already reformulating with alternative ingredients like TPO-L, BAPO and methyl benzoylformate, according to industry reports.

GLP-1 agonists — including semaglutides like Ozempic and Wegovy and tirzepatides like Mounjaro and Zepbound — were originally intended to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity.

But in recent months, studies have shown that these popular medications can have numerous other health benefits.

Some have even claimed that GLP-1s could eventually become the new “everything drug.”

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Dr. Angela Fitch, co-founder and chief medical officer of knownwell, a “weight-inclusive” healthcare company based in Boston, said she would caution against labeling any medication as an “everything drug,” but agrees that GLP-1s show promise.

“GLP-1s are currently approved for treating obesity, type 2 diabetes, secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease, metabolic associated fatty liver disease, chronic kidney disease in patients with diabetes and sleep apnea,” she told Fox News Digital. 

“Further research is necessary to determine their efficacy in treating other chronic conditions.”

However, the drugs have shown “notable promise” in areas such as addiction treatment and the improvement of neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s, Fitch said.

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“They lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol and decrease visceral adiposity,” she said. “They also significantly improve patients’ quality of life. They have many clinical indications today and many more to come.”

Top benefits of GLP-1s

Fitch listed the following primary benefits of GLP-1 medications.

• Facilitating effective fat loss and maintenance
• Controlling blood sugar and preventing diabetes in patients at risk
• Lowering blood pressure
• Improving lipids (achieving a healthy blood lipid profile)
• Reducing risk of heart disease and kidney disease

“These are not amenities. They are the holy grail of modern medicine.”

Dr. Brett Osborn, a Florida neurosurgeon and longevity expert, believes that GLP-1s are “here to stay.”

“These medications don’t just treat obesity — they’re already showing promise in everything from cardiovascular disease to neurodegenerative disease to addiction,” he told Fox News Digital. 

“I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: These are not amenities. They are the holy grail of modern medicine.”

Potential risks and drawbacks

The most common side effects of GLP-1 medications are gastrointestinal-related.

Those include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation and bloating, especially during the initial dose escalation period, according to Fitch. 

In recent months, studies have shown that medications like Ozempic and Wegovy could have numerous other health benefits. (iStock)

“These symptoms often improve over time, but can be limiting for some patients,” she said. 

Other more serious, though rare, risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease and potential kidney injury — particularly if severe dehydration occurs due to vomiting, the expert cautioned.

“Not everyone tolerates them well, and we don’t have a complete handle yet on long-term side effects.”

Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News senior medical analyst, has previously warned of GLP-1s’ side effects.

“Not everyone tolerates them well, and we don’t have a complete handle yet on long-term side effects,” he told Fox News Digital at the time.

“I certainly think they are useful — and can think of many situations where they decrease risks of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer as well as the need for bariatric surgery — but they are surely not one-size-fits-all and are mostly not first-line therapy.”

Are all GLP-1s created equal?

Not all GLP-1 receptor agonists are the same, Fitch cautioned. 

“While they all act on the same basic pathway, their efficacy, side effect profiles and cardiovascular benefits can vary significantly,” she told Fox News Digital. 

“These medications don’t just treat obesity — they’re already showing promise in everything from cardiovascular disease to neurodegenerative disease to addiction.” (iStock)

Semaglutide, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, is currently considered the most potent GLP-1 for both weight loss and glycemic control, Fitch said, with evidence for cardiovascular benefit in people with type 2 diabetes and obesity. 

Semaglutide was also just approved as a treatment for MASH (Metabolic dysfunction–Associated SteatoHepatitis, a serious type of fatty liver disease). 

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“Tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) is a dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist and has shown even greater weight loss in trials with a similar side effect profile,” Fitch said.

“Tirzepatide is approved for sleep apnea and is undergoing clinical trials for other indications.”

“Tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) is a dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist and has shown even greater weight loss in trials with a similar side effect profile,” an expert said. (Getty Images)

Based on his own clinical experience, Osborn reiterated that in many cases, tirzepatide is a “superior agent.”

“It’s a dual incretin, meaning it targets two biochemical pathways,” he told Fox News Digital. “Not surprisingly, therefore, for patients who plateau on Wegovy, Zepbound often jump-starts weight loss.”

What to know before starting a GLP-1

GLP-1s are not a “magic bullet,” Fitch pointed out, noting that diet, exercise, sleep and behavioral changes are still essential to reaping the full benefits.

“Before taking GLP-1s, people should also know that side effects are common, and consistent clinical care and oversight is required to ensure safety and efficacy,” she advised. 

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“It is not something that people should just access via a form on the internet and treat themselves without good, comprehensive, longitudinal care.”

For chronic conditions like obesity or type 2 diabetes, Fitch recommends long-term or even indefinite use as the best approach. 

Diet, exercise, sleep and behavioral changes are essential to reaping the full benefits of GLP-1s, an expert said. (iStock)

“Lowering the dose may become a viable maintenance strategy once a healthy weight is reached, though this approach is still under study,” she said. 

“Patients should consult their doctor to determine what course of action is best according to their specific needs.”

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Anyone who is interested in starting a GLP-1 medication should consult with a doctor to discuss potential benefits and risks.

Beetroot juice, which is rich in nitrates, has been linked to changing the community of bacteria living in the mouth.

Now, a new study has found that drinking this juice could reduce older adults’ blood pressure.

Researchers at the University of Exeter compared the response of both younger and older participants to the juice and published the study in Free Radical Biology and Medicine.

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Thirty-nine participants under age 30, plus 36 individuals in their 60s and 70s, were split into two separate two-week phases.

One group consumed nitrate-rich beetroot juice shots daily, while the other group — a placebo group — received a version without nitrates. Each group had a “wash-out period” between phases to reset their systems.

Researchers practiced bacterial gene sequencing to identify which microbes were present in the participants’ mouths before and after each treatment.

Older adults who drank nitrate-rich beetroot juice had fewer mouth bacteria called Prevotella, which is linked to inflammation, and more helpful bacteria like Neisseria.

“Foods that are high in dietary nitrates such as leafy greens, beets and lettuce can help lower blood pressure.”

Fox News senior medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel told Fox News Digital that nitrates lead to lower blood pressure by improving flexibility, decreasing resistance in blood vessels and lowering inflammation. 

The patients started the study with higher blood pressure, which went down after the beetroot juice — but blood pressure didn’t change with those in the placebo group.

“We know that foods that are high in dietary nitrates such as leafy greens, beets and lettuce can help lower blood pressure,” said Siegel.

Older adults who drank nitrate-rich beetroot juice had fewer mouth bacteria called Prevotella, which is linked to inflammation, and more helpful bacteria like Neisseria. (Natasha Breen/REDA&CO/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

He added, “Nitrates are converted to nitric oxide by your body. Nitric oxide is a key molecule in vascular health as it promotes the vessels to dilate and thus reduces blood pressure.”

Co-author Andy Jones, a professor at the University of Exeter, said in a press release that the study shows that “nitrate-rich foods alter the oral microbiome in a way that could result in less inflammation, as well as a lowering of blood pressure in older people.”

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Lee Beniston, an associate director of the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, said the “research is a great example of how bioscience can help us better understand the complex links between diet, the microbiome and healthy aging.”

“By uncovering how dietary nitrate affects oral bacteria and blood pressure in older adults, the study opens up new opportunities for improving vascular health through nutrition,” Beniston added.

“As we age, our levels of bioavailable nitric oxide lower, so it makes sense that we see more of a benefit in consuming dietary nitrates in older patients.”  (iStock)

Both researchers shared that more research is needed. 

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Siegel noted that “as we age, our levels of bioavailable nitric oxide lower, so it makes sense that we see more of a benefit in consuming dietary nitrates in older patients.” 

He said the study does support the well-established belief that a good diet, high in fresh fruits and vegetables, can help manage many chronic medical conditions.

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Anyone with high blood pressure or other medical conditions should check with doctors or medical experts before making dietary changes. The same applies to those taking medication.

Addressing hearing loss early on may significantly reduce the risk of dementia, a recent study found. 

Adults with hearing loss who reported wearing hearing aids before they were 70 years old cut their risk of dementia by more than half, compared to those with hearing loss who did not wear hearing devices, according to research recently published in JAMA Neurology.

Participants with hearing loss  who wore hearing aids had a 61% lower risk for “incident all-cause dementia,” the researchers wrote.

‘SELECTIVE HEARING’ ISN’T A CHOICE, SCIENTISTS REVEAL — IT’S A REAL NEUROLOGICAL PROCESS

Individuals under 70 years old who did not have hearing loss had a 29% lower risk for dementia in comparison to those with untreated hearing loss, according to the study authors.

However, the same benefit was not seen in those 70 years or older at the time of the hearing tests.

Details of the study

Researchers from the University of Texas, University of Pittsburgh, Boston University and several others looked at data from 2,953 participants in the Framingham Heart study, a long-term project that tracked the health of participants and their children.

For two decades, they followed participants aged 60 or older who did not have a diagnosis of dementia when they underwent hearing tests.

6 SIMPLE WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR HEARING NOW BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE, ACCORDING TO EXPERTS

The researchers found that 20% of the participants ultimately developed dementia, and of this group 42% were under the age of 70 when they completed the hearing assessment.

“This finding highlights the importance of early intervention for [hearing loss] for possible prevention of dementia,” the researchers stated.

The researchers noted that only 17% of individuals with moderate to severe hearing loss use hearing devices.

Adults with hearing loss who reported wearing hearing aids before they were 70 years old cut their risk of dementia by more than half, the study found. (iStock)

Dr. Gayatri Devi, M.D., a neurologist at Northwell’s Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, told Fox News Digital that “40% of dementia cases are preventable with modifiable risk factors, such as correcting hearing loss, which promotes socializing, another separate variable associated with dementia prevention.”

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The doctor, who was not affiliated with the study, noted that treating hearing loss is “an excellent and simple way” not only to prevent dementia, but also to enable people to engage more fully in conversations and improve their quality of life.

Age-related hearing loss is a known risk factor for developing dementia, according to Devi and other health experts.

“This finding highlights the importance of early intervention for possible prevention of dementia.”

“Maintaining good brain health as we age requires stimulation,” Carolyn Bossinas, director of speech and audiology at Northwell Health Phelps Hospital in Sleepy Hollow, New York, told Fox News Digital. 

When someone is not able to hear properly, the brain does not receive adequate information, according to Bossinas, who was also not part of the research.

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Compared to those with typical hearing, individuals with hearing loss are 1.9 times more likely to develop dementia and 2.78 times more likely to have a co-occurring cognitive impairment, the expert said.

These co-occurring impairments may include memory loss, reduced problem-solving, reduced awareness of mistakes and slower rate of processing.

Symptoms and intervention

There are signs that a person may be experiencing hearing loss and should see a healthcare professional.

“Generally, when we have trouble hearing in restaurants or in places with loud ambient noise, [it is a] good time to have our hearing checked,” Devi said.

When someone is not able to hear properly, the brain does not receive adequate information, an expert said. (iStock)

Another sign is when someone frequently asks individuals to repeat themselves during conversations.

Early intervention is important, according to Bossinas. People typically adjust more quickly to wearing hearing aids when they have mild hearing loss, she noted, as the change is not as dramatic but can still be very helpful.

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Several adjustments may be required, so she recommends working with an audiologist.

When wearing hearing devices, it’s important to keep them dry, change the batteries (or the device) regularly, clean the device according to the audiologist’s instructions, and perform regular listening checks, the expert added.

A new trend has emerged that is taking self-care to the next level – for those who can afford it. 

“Boat-tox” has people ordering Botox injectables and other personal care services and treatments directly to their locations aboard yachts or private boats. 

New York-based Dr. Alexander Golberg, who specializes in functional and aesthetic medicine, told Fox News Digital that “boat-tox” is part of a larger concierge aesthetic trend. 

NOT DRINKING ENOUGH WATER FLOODS YOUR BODY WITH HARMFUL STRESS HORMONES

It’s “luxury care that meets patients wherever they are,” he said. “If someone is planning a boat day with friends, they can also fit in their Botox treatment at the same time.”

Golberg said he started “Dr. Hamptons,” a service that delivers treatments directly to patients’ homes. It caters to celebrities, CEOs, frequent travelers and younger professionals.

Other treatments such as lip enhancements, IV and wellness drips are also available.

As a result of the coronavirus, when many doctors’ offices were closed, on-demand medical and cosmetic services grew. “People [were] still want[ing] to look good and feel their best,” said Golberg.

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His concierge members pay a yearly fee to have access to house and yacht calls; the service handles “every visit with complete discretion.”

Sheila Nazarian, a California board-certified plastic surgeon and the star of Netflix’s “Skin Decision: Before and After,” told Fox News Digital the trend embraces “house-call exclusivity.”

Dr. Alexander Golberg, shown at right, said he started a concierge service that brings treatments directly to patients’ homes. It caters to celebrities, CEOs, frequent travelers and younger professionals. (Dr. Alexander Golberg)

“Pricing reflects the VIP nature of the service,” she said. “Patients are paying not just for a treatment, but for the privacy, the house-call exclusivity, and the peace of mind of having an expert show up wherever they are.”

Nazarian added, “In Los Angeles, that might mean a penthouse, a private jet, or yes, even the deck of a yacht.”

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She said administering injectables to people on yachts does pose extra considerations such as lighting, sterility, and the movement of the vessel. 

Golberg said injections are only done when the boat is docked and anchored.

On-demand medical and cosmetic services have grown ever since COVID-19, according to experts.  (iStock)

“That way, patients get the same safety and precision as they would in the office,” he said. 

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Only very experienced providers should attempt it, said Nazarian.

“Patients should understand that complications, though rare, can be more difficult to address in a non-clinical setting.”

A fresh fitness craze is once again sweeping social media, though the practice borrows from time-tested military training methods, and experts urge caution before strapping in.

On social media, influencers are hyping weighted vests as one of the “best-kept secrets” in fitness, claiming they can help you lose 30 pounds and become “unrecognizable” when used during walks and workouts. TikTok searches for #weightedvest have garnered more than 30 million views.

But the vests are far from new, according to Dr. Mark Kovacs, a sports scientist and longevity expert based in Atlanta. 

“They’ve been used for decades in athletic and military training, but social media has helped reintroduce them to mainstream fitness,” he told Fox News Digital.

SIMPLE JAPANESE FITNESS TREND COULD ADD 7 YEARS TO LIFE EXPECTANCY, EXPERTS SAY

“The appeal is simple: You turn everyday walking into a slightly more demanding workout without changing the movement,” Kovacs said.

While soldiers have marched with heavy backpacks for more than a century — a practice known as rucking — to build stamina and toughness, weighted vests have also long been used by athletes and firefighters. Now, the gear is available on Amazon for as little as $30 and from Equinox, which also incorporates it into classes, for as much as $375. Kovacs said the sleeker, more comfortable modern vests are likely to fuel a longer-lasting trend.

Part of the appeal is that the vests look “hardcore” but are simple to use, said Sarah Fuhrmann, a certified trainer and functional aging specialist in Michigan. 

PEOPLE ARE USING VIBRATION PLATES FOR WEIGHT LOSS: DO THEY WORK?

“Just strap on and walk, and fitness ensues,” she told Fox News Digital, adding that social media often “makes old tools look new.” 

In a recent episode of Andrew Huberman’s “Huberman Lab” podcast, Michael Easter, a Las Vegas-based researcher and author of “The Comfort Crisis,” argued that humans are built to carry heavy things long distances. 

“Humans are the only mammals that can pick up weight and carry it long distances,” Easter said. “For most of human history, we carried everything — food, tools, even babies. Technology has stripped carrying out of our lives, but we were literally born to do it.”

SPORTS DOCTOR WEIGHS IN ON MAMDANI’S VIRAL 135-POUND BENCH PRESS FAIL: ‘TRUMP COULD LIFT MORE’

He praised rucking as a “two-in-one workout” that combines cardio through long-distance walking and strength training by loading the skeletal and muscular systems.

Rucking has been used in military training for over a century, including by the U.S. Navy. (Alex Wong/Getty Images)

Experts caution, however, that more research is needed to fully understand the benefits of weighted vests. 

While studies show that weighted vests can increase calorie burn, cardiovascular demand and even help with certain strength exercises like squats, the science remains inconclusive on long-term outcomes such as bone density. One recent study found that obese adults who wore weighted vests lost about 10% of their body weight but saw no reduction in hip bone loss.

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“This study’s findings are counter to some research and consistent with others,” Dr. Colin Haines, a board-certified spine surgeon and director of research at the Virginia Spine Institute, told Health.com. “What’s clear is that the broader body of evidence includes both neutral and positive results.”

Research dating back to the 1990s has shown more promising signs of improved bone growth, particularly in postmenopausal women. A 2015 study similarly showed improvements in quadriceps strength and femur bone density.

Women in this stage of life may benefit most from the trend, Kovacs said, while people with joint or back issues should be cautious and consult a medical professional before starting.

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For people interested in trying weighted walks or hikes, experts recommend starting with the lightest option available — about 5 to 10 pounds, or less than 10% of your body weight — and choosing a vest with evenly distributed weight and adjustable straps. Start at 15 to 30 minutes, two to three times a week, they add.

Weighted vests can add resistance to strength moves as well as cardio sessions. (iStock)

“Focus on posture and slowly add weight over time,” Kovacs advised. “Always listen to your body. Discomfort is a sign to back off.”

He added that weighted-vest walking should not replace heavier strength training or higher-intensity cardio entirely but can be an “excellent supplement.”

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“It offers a low-impact way to increase training volume, especially for individuals who may not tolerate running or high-intensity workouts,” he added.

Fuhrmann agreed that traditional strength training is the “proven gold standard” for protecting bones and muscle, and noted that weighted vests can intensify traditional exercises like squatting. 

“Weighted vests can add a little spice to your walks, but they’re not a shortcut to fitness,” she added. “If they help you get more daily movement in, that’s great. But if the choice is between a vest and a solid strength program, choose the weights in the gym every time.”

Protein is popping up in everything from popcorn and tortilla chips to coffee and ice cream, and now a new form is flexing for attention.

High-protein grocery items have surged in popularity over the past year, with shoppers seeking products that support muscle repair, immune function and metabolism. Long a staple in fitness circles, protein shakes — typically made from whey concentrate and coming in flavors like chocolate, vanilla and peanut butter — offer a creamy, milkshake-like way to pack in the nutrients.

Now muscling its way into the supplement spotlight is clear protein, which is made from whey protein isolate and comes in ready-to-drink bottles or powders that turn water into brightly colored, juice-like beverages.

TRYING TO EAT MORE PROTEIN? DON’T OVERLOOK THIS SWEET SURPRISE

Searches for “clear protein” on The Vitamin Shoppe’s website were up 11% in July, according to the company, marking the seventh straight month it has been ranked as a top search term.

Ready-to-drink brands like Isopure Protein Water, Premier Protein Clear and Ryse already line store shelves, and flavored isolate powders from Alani Nu, Ghost and Transparent Labs offer mix options in lemonade, tropical punch and other fruit-forward varieties.

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“It addresses a gap in the market for consumers who want high protein without the heaviness,” registered dietitian-nutritionist Lauren Manaker recently told Vogue magazine. “It’s also visually appealing … and fits well with the push for lighter, on-the-go health products.”

Whey protein isolate tends to be lower in fat, carbohydrates, calories and lactose compared to concentrate, making it a strong option for those with digestive issues. It also boasts a higher concentration of protein by weight.

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Yet both isolate and concentrate typically deliver 20 to 25 grams of protein per serving, according to Lena Beal, a cardiovascular dietitian and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Whey isolate has more protein with less fat, carbs and lactose, while concentrate is creamier and less processed. (iStock)

Both forms are quickly absorbed compared to slower-digesting proteins like casein or plant-based blends, though some experts say isolate offers a slight edge in post-workout absorption due to its purity.

“Clear protein isn’t necessarily healthier by default,” Beal told Today.com. “It’s the same protein just in a lighter format.”

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And the product itself isn’t new, she said. Isolate-based clear protein has been used in hospitals for years, especially to help patients meet their nutritional needs when food intake is limited.

Despite the trend, experts warn that clear protein often contains added artificial flavorings and sweeteners, since it lacks the fats and sugars that help flavor traditional powders. It can also be more expensive.

Protein shakes can play a big role in recovery and muscle building after a workout. (iStock)

“Until we have more data to prove otherwise, neither is inherently better,” Manaker said. “It’s all about what fits your goals and lifestyle.”

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The recommended dietary allowance for protein is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight for healthy adults. Many experts, however, recommend more for athletes, older adults and pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Because both provide essential amino acids, Manaker said they can be great options for those looking to increase their protein intake. 

“It’s all about what fits your goals and lifestyle,” she said.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is warning that travelers to China face an “enhanced” risk of contracting a virus spread by mosquitoes. 

There has been an outbreak of chikungunya in Guangdong Province, which can cause fever, joint pain, headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, and rash.

Recently, the CDC raised the warning related to chikungunya in China from Level 1: “Practice Usual Precautions” to Level 2: “Practice Enhanced Precautions.”

The CDC says there are no medicines to treat chikungunya, and recommends preventing it by wearing insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, or staying in places that have air conditioning or screens on the windows and doors. 

KANSAS TRACKS 5 SERIOUS WEST NILE VIRUS CASES AS MOSQUITO SEASON PEAKS ACROSS THE STATE

The department also recommends travelers heading to an area with an outbreak get the chikungunya vaccine, except for pregnant women. 

Pregnant women are urged to reconsider traveling to areas with an outbreak “particularly if you are close to delivering your baby.” 

Mothers-to-be can pass the virus onto their children, especially if they’re near full-term, and infected newborns face the risk of “severe illness, including poor long-term outcomes.”

MOSQUITO-BORN DENGUE FEVER CASES SURGE AT POPULAR US VACATION DESTINATION

A worker uses a sprayer to eradicate mosquitoes at a park in order to prevent the spread of the mosquito-borne disease Chikungunya on Aug. 7, in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province of China.  (VCG/VCG via Getty Images)

Newborns can be infected via the womb or by a mosquito bite after they’re born. 

“In general, vaccination against chikungunya should be deferred until after delivery, the CDC said in its release. “However, when the risk of infection is high and exposure cannot be avoided, pregnant travelers should discuss with their healthcare provider the potential risks (to themselves and their babies) of chikungunya virus infection and the potential benefits and risks of vaccination so that vaccination can be considered.”

Travelers are advised to seek medical attention if they develop fever, joint pain, headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash. 

Chikungunya is spread by mosquitoes.  (Soumyabrata Roy/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Centered in Foshan City in Guangdong, officials have responded aggressively to the outbreak, a response that some have compared to COVId-19 mitigation efforts in China. 

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Joint pain caused by the virus can be “severe” and “debilitating and may be prolonged,” according to the World Health Organization. 

Severe symptoms and death are rare and usually occur in babies, the elderly and people with underlying conditions. 

The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) has reported the first case of human plague in 2025.

New Mexico health officials confirmed the infectious disease in a 43-year-old man from Valencia County who was hospitalized and has been discharged since the Aug. 25 press release.

The man recently spent time camping in Rio Arriba County, where officials believe he may have been exposed.

FIVE DEATHS REPORTED AMID BACTERIAL INFECTION OUTBREAK IN MAJOR CITY

The plague is known to “circulate among wildlife” throughout the western U.S., the release stated.

Erin Phipps, state public health veterinarian for NMDOH, commented in a statement that this case is a reminder of the “severe threat that can be posed by this ancient disease.

“It also emphasizes the need for heightened community awareness and for taking measures to prevent further spread.”

The last human plague case in New Mexico was recorded in a Lincoln County resident in 2024.

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The plague is a bacterial disease of rodents, which is generally transmitted to humans through infected flea bites, according to NMDOH.

The disease can also be transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected animals, including wildlife and even pets.

The plague is a rodent disease that is transmitted to humans, typically from insect bites. (iStock)

Symptoms can include fever, chills, headache and weakness and a “painful swelling of the lymph node” in areas of the body like the groin, armpit and neck.

In cats and dogs, symptoms can include fever, lethargy and loss of appetite, in addition to lymph node swelling under the jaw.

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The plague can be treated with antibiotic medications, which can “greatly reduce” the fatality rate in people and pets after a “prompt diagnosis,” NMDOH reports.

The best ways to prevent plague infection are avoiding sick or dead rodents and rabbits, cleaning up areas where rodents may nest and storing hay, wood and compost piles far away from the home.

Human plague is known to circulate among wildlife throughout the western U.S., officials warn hikers and campers. (iStock)

Using insect repellent while camping, hiking or working outdoors can also help to prevent plague exposure.

For those with pets, NMDOH recommends using an appropriate flea repellent and having sick pets examined by a veterinarian.

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Any unexpected illness involving a sudden, severe fever should be checked out by a doctor.

Fox News Digital reached out to NMDOH for comment.

Previous research has linked a common vitamin to a slowdown in aging — and now a new Harvard study appears to confirm those findings.

The study, which was published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, found that taking a daily vitamin D pill prevented telomeres from shortening, a hallmark of aging.

Telomeres, which are often compared to the plastic tips on the ends of shoelaces, act as “protective ends” on chromosome strands, according to a Harvard press release.

COMMON DAILY VITAMIN COULD SLOW BIOLOGICAL AGING, MAJOR STUDY SUGGESTS

As people age, telomeres get shorter, which can increase the likelihood of poor health and mortality, prior studies have shown.

Research has also suggested that higher levels of vitamin D in the blood is linked to longer telomeres.

In this latest randomized trial, approximately 1,000 people aged 50 and older were divided into two groups — one group took 2,000 international units (IU) of vitamin D pills each day, and the other group took placebo pills.

After a four-year period, the people taking vitamin D showed less than half of the telomere shortening than the placebo group.

The vitamin D group also had fewer autoimmune diseases and reduced inflammation markers.

COMMON VITAMIN SHOWN TO REDUCE AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE

Lead study author JoAnn Manson, professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, said the findings “suggest a promising role for vitamin D in slowing a pathway for biological aging and age-related chronic disease.”

Fatty fish, including salmon, sardines and tuna, and wild mushrooms are other sources of vitamin D, an expert said. (iStock)

While the researchers were surprised that vitamin D was linked to such substantial protection against telomere shortening, Manson told Fox News Digital, the findings are consistent with previous evidence.

“Vitamin D tamps down inflammation, a major cause of telomere shortening and chronic diseases of aging,” she said. 

Vitamin D recommendations

The question of what constitutes an “adequate” blood level of vitamin D is a “controversial topic,” according to Manson. 

In the study, the team found that 2000 IU per day was “very safe,” without side effects or adverse events. 

TO STAY HEALTHY, EAT MORE FOODS WITH VITAMIN D, NUTRITION EXPERT ADVISES

“Blood levels for deficiency and recommended blood levels vary across organizations, labs and countries, which is one of the reasons for doubt about the test’s usefulness,” Manson said. 

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and most professional societies in the U.S. do not recommend universal screening for vitamin D blood levels or routine use of vitamin D supplements, the researcher pointed out. 

“Vitamin D tamps down inflammation, a major cause of telomere shortening and chronic diseases of aging.”

“The National Academy of Medicine recommends 600 IU of vitamin D per day for adults up to age 70 and 800 IU above age 70, stating that these intakes will meet the requirements of the large majority of adults in the population,” she said. 

“However, recent guidelines from the Endocrine Society suggest that vitamin D supplements may be helpful for adults aged 75 and older, infants and children, pregnant women, and those with a diagnosis of prediabetes, but they don’t specify a specific dose.”

In the study, the team found that 2000 IU per day was “very safe,” without side effects or adverse events.  (iStock)

For anyone who has concerns about getting adequate vitamin D from their diet and/or time outdoors, Manson said that supplementation with 1000 to 2000 IU/day of vitamin D would be “very reasonable.”

“In the U.S., foods such as dairy products, cereal and orange juice are often fortified with vitamin D, so checking nutrition labels can help you make better decisions about which foods to purchase,” she advised. 

“Fatty fish, such as salmon, sardines and tuna, and wild mushrooms are other sources.”

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Groups at high risk for vitamin D deficiency include those living in nursing homes, people with malabsorption conditions like Crohn’s or celiac disease, those being treated for osteoporosis or other bone health problems, and those with major dietary restrictions, such as severe lactose intolerance, according to Manson. 

“[People in these groups] should talk with their doctors about being tested for vitamin D blood levels and taking a vitamin D supplement,” she recommended.

Groups at high risk for vitamin D deficiency include those living in nursing homes, people with malabsorption conditions like Crohn’s or celiac disease, and those being treated for osteoporosis or other bone health problems. (iStock)

The doctor noted that people need only small to moderate amounts of vitamin D for good health, as the vitamin’s metabolism is “tightly regulated” in the body. 

“More is not necessarily better, and very high doses — such as more than 10,000 IU/d — may be associated with high blood or urine calcium levels and toxicity,” she cautioned. 

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Manson emphasized that taking a supplement is not a substitute for a nutritious diet and healthy lifestyle. 

“Although it’s much easier to pop a pill than to be physically active outdoors and eat healthfully, these lifestyle factors will do more to keep you healthy and lower your risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes and other chronic diseases of aging,” she said.

“More is not necessarily better.”

Going out for a 15-minute walk a few times a week at midday will typically provide enough sunlight exposure for the skin to synthesize vitamin D, Manson added.

“Even more important for your health would be to exercise outdoors, such as brisk walking, jogging or playing sports.”

Looking ahead to future research

“Although the results are exciting, we believe that replication of these results in a separate randomized trial will be important before changing general guidelines for vitamin D intake,” said Manson.

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The study was supported in part by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, the National Cancer Institute and the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

Two people have died after eating oysters contaminated with flesh-eating bacteria, health officials confirmed, and others have been infected. 

Both of the fatal cases were traced to Louisiana-harvested oysters that ended up on plates in restaurants in Louisiana and Florida.

The bacterium, Vibrio vulnificus, has now been linked to six deaths in Louisiana and five deaths in Florida, according to the states’ health departments.

BRAIN EATING AMOEBA-INFECTED PATIENT DIES, MISSOURI HEALTH OFFICIALS CONFIRM

The rising number of outbreaks prompted the Louisiana Department of Health to issue a statement July 31, urging residents to take precautions against vibriosis, the infection caused by Vibrio vulnificus.

Vibrio vulnificus is part of a wider group of Vibrio bacteria, which are found in coastal waters, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states.

Vibrio has the potential to cause severe infections, according to Dr. Andrew Handel, pediatric infectious diseases specialist at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital in New York. 

These include invasive soft tissue infections (sometimes called “necrotizing fasciitis” or “flesh-eating bacteria”) and bloodstream infections.

MORE CASES OF DEADLY ‘FLESH-EATING’ BACTERIAL INFECTION IN POPULAR VACATION DESTINATION

Most people get vibriosis by eating raw or under-cooked shellfish, particularly oysters, according to the CDC. 

In some cases, it can also enter open wounds while people are swimming.

People who have eaten contaminated shellfish will have severe vomiting and diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration, health officials caution. (iStock)

Prior to this incident, health officials reported 17 cases of Vibrio vulnificus among Louisiana residents in 2025. All patients were hospitalized, and four of those illnesses resulted in death. 

Over the previous 10 years, an average of seven Vibrio vulnificus cases and one death were reported each year in Louisiana.

DEATH CONFIRMED FROM RARE AND DEADLY ‘BRAIN-EATING AMOEBA’ IN SOUTHERN LAKE

“It’s just prolific right now,” Jennifer Armentor, the molluscan shellfish program administrator at the Louisiana Department of Health, told the Louisiana Oyster Task Force Tuesday at the New Orleans Lakefront Airport.

Symptoms to watch for

Vibriosis symptoms depend on the type of infection, according to Handel. 

“The symptoms of skin infections can progress quickly and become life-threatening in a short time,” he previously told Fox News Digital. “Thankfully, those infections are rare.”

“If you do eat shellfish, make sure it has not been sitting out for a long time and comes from a hygienic source.”

People who have eaten contaminated shellfish will have severe vomiting and diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration, the doctor warned.

While healthy people generally experience only mild symptoms, those who are immunocompromised or have chronic liver disease can face serious health risks.

A bacterial infection is diagnosed by testing cultures obtained from stool, wounds or blood. (iStock)

If Vibrio vulnificus enters the bloodstream, it can cause severe illness marked by fever, chills, septic shock and blistering skin lesions, according to Florida Health. About half of these bloodstream infections are fatal.

Some severe cases can cause necrotizing fasciitis, which is when the flesh around an open wound dies, the CDC cautions. 

Diagnosis and treatment

The bacterial infection is diagnosed by testing cultures obtained from stool, wounds or blood, according to health officials.

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Groups at highest risk include older adults and people who are immunocompromised or have chronic liver disease, Handel cautioned. 

For mild infections, the CDC recommends increasing fluid intake to prevent dehydration.

About one in five people will die from a vibriosis infection, sometimes within a day or two of the illness. (iStock)

Those with severe or prolonged infections should receive antibiotics to improve survival rates. For people with infected wounds, surgery may be necessary to remove dead tissue.

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About one in five people will die from the infection, sometimes within a day or two of the illness, the CDC states.

“To prevent Vibrio food poisoning, avoid eating raw shellfish, especially if you are immunocompromised or have chronic liver disease,” Handel advised. 

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The doctor noted that Vibrio infections are rare and “should not be a major cause of alarm.”

“If you do eat shellfish, make sure it has not been sitting out for a long time and comes from a hygienic source.”

Fox News Digital’s Melissa Rudy contributed reporting.

GLP-1 weight loss and diabetes drugs, like Ozempic and Wegovy, have been shown to reduce the symptoms of a painful skin condition.

Hidradenitis suppurativa, also known as acne inversa, is a condition that causes small, painful lumps to develop under the skin, according to Mayo Clinic.

These lumps typically develop in areas of the body where the skin rubs together, and can be recurrent.

POPULAR WEIGHT-LOSS MEDICATION COULD RELIEVE PAINFUL ARTHRITIS SYMPTOMS, DOCTORS REPORT

Hidradenitis suppurativa tends to start after puberty and before age 40, persisting for many years and potentially worsening over time, according to Mayo Clinic. Women are three times more likely to develop the condition.

Medical and surgical therapy can help manage the condition and prevent complications.

A new study, published in the journal JAMA Dermatology, analyzed how GLP-1 medication could impact this skin condition.

The French researchers noted that hidradenitis suppurativa is typically associated with overweight and obesity, affecting 50% of those patients.

WHO SHOULD BE TAKING WEIGHT-LOSS DRUGS? DOCTORS SHARE BEST CANDIDATES

The experts noted that weight loss, whether through diet or obesity surgery, has a “beneficial effect” on the skin condition for most patients.

As GLP-1s have demonstrated “major efficacy” in weight loss, the researchers hypothesized that the medications could also have anti-inflammatory properties that may help with skin symptoms.

Researchers found that patients with obesity and diabetes experienced a reduction in symptoms when taking a GLP-1. (iStock)

The study evaluated 66 patients with hidradenitis suppurativa who were taking a GLP-1 drug, following up at an average of 18.5 months later.

Nearly 90% of the study participants had diabetes, and their average BMI was 39.4. Treatment for the skin condition was initiated for 53% of the patients.

IS OZEMPIC RUINING YOUR TEETH? WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT IMPACT ON DENTAL HEALTH

After six months, 54% of patients had a reduction in symptoms. 

By the last consultation, 67% of the participants reported reductions and 60% had decreased pain.

Hidradenitis suppurativa, shown here, typically occurs before age 40 and can worsen with time. (iStock)

‘Cautious optimism’

Dr. Brendan Camp, a dermatologist in New York, reacted to these study findings with “cautious optimism.”

“It is impressive that, over a median of 18.5 months of follow-up, GLP-1 receptor agonists led to significant reductions in HS severity, flares and pain in patients, most of whom were obese and had diabetes,” he said in an interview with Fox News Digital.

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Camp confirmed how GLP-1-aided weight loss can reduce “mechanical friction” and “adipose-driven inflammation in susceptible areas” where skin conditions can occur. 

GLP-1s also appear to have anti-inflammatory effects, which could potentially enhance skin healing and reduce the frequency of inflammatory skin disease flares, he said.

A dermatologist said he does not currently recommend GLP-1s solely for HS or other skin conditions, as it’s not prescribed for this indication. (iStock)

Potential limitations

Camp pointed out that while the study represents a “promising therapeutic signal,” its retrospective design “limits causal conclusions.”

“Solid confirmation via randomized clinical trials is critically needed,” he said.

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Additionally, most participants in the study were obese and diabetic, which means the results may not be applicable to all patients with hidradenitis suppurativa. 

“Future randomized trials are required to determine who will benefit most and to establish safety and effectiveness in the wider HS population,” Camp said.

“GLP-1 therapies remain investigational for hidradenitis suppurativa and are not an approved indication.”

The dermatologist does not currently recommend GLP-1s solely for hidradenitis suppurativa or other skin conditions.

“Patients with HS should know that while these findings are hopeful — showing improvements in severity, flare frequency, pain and quality of life over months of treatment — GLP-1 therapies remain investigational for HS and are not an approved indication,” he noted.

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Those who qualify for GLP-1 treatment for diabetes or obesity, however, may find that these drugs offer the “added potential benefit of HS symptom improvement.”

“Off-label initiation without a clear indication should be approached with caution — weighing cost, side effects and lack of definitive trial evidence — and only under the guidance of both a dermatologist and prescribing provider,” Camp added.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized COVID-19 vaccines for the fall — but only for high-risk groups.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy announced the FDA’s most recent actions on Wednesday in a post on X.

“I promised 4 things,” Kennedy wrote. “1. to end covid vaccine mandates; 2. to keep vaccines available to people who want them, especially the vulnerable; 3. to demand placebo-controlled trials from companies; 4. to end the emergency.”

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“In a series of FDA actions today we accomplished all four goals.”

In the post, RFK stated that the FDA has issued “marketing authorization” for high-risk groups for the following vaccines: Moderna (6 months and older), Pfizer (5 years and older) and Novavax (12 and up). 

“These vaccines are available for all patients who choose them after consulting with their doctors,” RFK wrote.

High-risk groups include older adults over 65 and those who are more likely to develop severe COVID illness. 

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On its website, the CDC lists conditions that may increase the risk of severe COVID, including asthma, cancer, heart conditions, cerebrovascular disease, diabetes, dementia, mood disorders, obesity, Parkinson’s, and chronic disease of the lungs, liver or kidneys, among many others.

RFK also announced that the emergency use authorizations for COVID vaccines have been rescinded.

“The American people demanded science, safety, and common sense,” RFK went on. “This framework delivers all three.”

Before this change, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had recommended the vaccine for all Americans 6 months and older.

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In May 2025, Kennedy announced that COVID-19 vaccines would be removed from the CDC’s routine immunization schedule for healthy children and pregnant women. 

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Instead of a universal recommendation, the CDC’s updated guidance calls for “shared clinical decision-making,” in which parents and doctors discuss the benefits and risks of vaccination for each individual case.

Before this change, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had recommended the vaccine for all Americans 6 months and older. (iStock)

However, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) still includes it in its annual immunization schedule, as Fox News Digital previously reported.

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“It should be a conversation between the pediatrician, patient and parent, and should depend on the child’s health as well as the current state of COVID,” Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News senior medical analyst, previously told Fox News Digital.

Eating a Mediterranean diet — including lots of produce, whole grains and healthy fats — while also adding a few healthy lifestyle behaviors could lower your diabetes risk by almost a third.

That’s according to research published Aug. 25 in Annals of Internal Medicine, which found that following a Mediterranean-style diet along with calorie control, regular activity and professional support cut the risk of developing type 2 diabetes (T2D) by 31%. 

The findings come from the PREDIMED-Plus trial, a six-year study of nearly 4,800 older adults in Spain who were overweight or obese and at risk of diabetes.

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“In practical terms, adding calorie control and physical activity to the Mediterranean diet prevented around three out of every 100 people from developing diabetes,” co-author Miguel Martínez-González, professor at the University of Navarra in Spain, said in a press release.

“That’s a clear, measurable benefit for public health.”

“We’re facing a global epidemic of diabetes,” co-author Frank Hu, Fredrick J. Stare Professor of Nutrition and Epidemiology at Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, said in the release.

Type 2 diabetes is one of the world’s fastest-growing health conditions, affecting nearly 16% of U.S. adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Experts say simple lifestyle changes could help prevent millions of new cases.

YOUR DNA COULD BE STOPPING YOU FROM LOSING WEIGHT, NEW STUDY SUGGESTS

What the diet looks like

The Mediterranean diet primarily consists of the following ingredients.

• Plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains
• Healthy fats, such as olive oil and nuts
• Moderate amounts of fish, lean proteins and dairy
• Little to no red meat

This way of eating has been linked to better heart health, improved insulin sensitivity and reduced inflammation.

The Mediterranean diet has been linked to better heart health, improved insulin sensitivity and reduced inflammation. (iStock)

Registered dietitian and food blogger Lauren Harris-Pincus, based in New Jersey, previously spoke to Fox News Digital about the benefits of whole-food diets like this one.

“Fiber-rich carbohydrates like fruit, veggies, beans/legumes, nuts and whole grains are beneficial to meeting fiber goals, supporting gut health and helping to prevent lifestyle diseases,” she said. 

Study design

The study looked at nearly 4,800 people in Spain who were overweight or obese and at risk of diabetes.

Half of the group followed a Mediterranean diet while also incorporating additional lifestyle changes, including cutting about 600 calories a day, adding moderate exercise (like brisk walking or light strength training), and receiving professional weight-loss support.

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The other half followed a Mediterranean diet without calorie restriction, exercise guidance or extra support.

After six years, the first group had a 31% lower risk of developing diabetes. On average, they also lost 3.3 kilograms (about 7 pounds) and trimmed 3.6 centimeters (about 1.4 inches) from their waistlines.

“Adding calorie control and physical activity to the Mediterranean diet prevented around three out of every 100 people from developing diabetes.”

The control group lost significantly less, only 0.6 kilograms (1.3 pounds), and had almost no change in waist size.

“The best lifestyle strategy to reduce the risk of diabetes is to lose weight by adhering to a healthy, energy-reduced diet and increasing physical activity,” co-author Jordi Salas-Salvadó, M.D., PhD, professor at the University of Rovira i Virgili in Spain, told Fox News Digital.

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While the Mediterranean diet isn’t the only eating plan that could help prevent diabetes, it offers a “highly sustainable, long-term weight-loss option,” he added.

Salas-Salvadó noted that no previous trial has assessed the effect of reducing calories in the context of a healthy, relatively high-fat diet.

After six years, the group that modified their diet, exercised regularly and received professional support had a 31% lower risk of developing diabetes. (iStock)

Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and Fox News senior medical analyst, was not involved in the study but has previously spoken about the effects of the Mediterranean diet.

“The alternative — saturated fats, salts and sugars — are not heart-healthy and increase the risk of obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes and cancer, all of which increase mortality risks,” he told Fox News Digital.

Potential limitations

The study’s approach of monitoring diet, physical activity and weight loss makes it difficult to gauge which factor had the most impact, according to Salas-Salvadó.

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He also pointed out that because the participants were older adults in Spain, further studies are needed to assess outcomes in other populations, like younger people and non-Mediterranean populations.

A man in China became the first recipient of a pig lung.

The genetically modified pig organ was transplanted into the 39-year-old, according to an Aug. 26 report by the journal Nature.

The procedure took place last year, performed by researchers at the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangshou Medical University in China.

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Although the man was brain-dead after experiencing a cerebral hemorrhage, the lung survived for nine days.

The left lung came from a pig with six genomic edits, created by research firm Chengdu Clonorgan Biotechnology in China.

Pig organs have been successfully transplanted into humans in the past, and clinical trials for pig liver and kidney transplants in humans were green-lighted in the U.S. this year.

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In this first trial, the researchers and doctors aimed to determine how a lung would hold up against the human immune response and the possibility of “hyperacute rejection.”

In the Nature journal article, the researchers reported the success of this recent transplant, noting no signs of rejection or infection within the 216-hour monitoring period.

Although the man was brain-dead after experiencing a cerebral hemorrhage, the lung survived for nine days. (iStock)

In the first 24 hours, the team observed lung swelling and tissue damage during the procedure.

On days three and six, the team noticed damage caused by antibodies attacking the organ, but this was reduced by day nine.

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The study was then ended at the request of the patient’s family on the ninth day, the report stated.

“Although this study demonstrates the feasibility of pig-to-human lung xenotransplantation, substantial challenges relating to organ rejection and infection remain,” the researchers concluded.

“Further preclinical studies are necessary before clinical translation of this procedure.”

The doctors said further research is needed before clinical translation can occur. (iStock)

Muhammad Mohiuddin, a surgeon and researcher at the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore, who led the first pig–heart transplant into a living person in 2022, told Nature that lungs are the “most difficult organ to transplant,” as they’re more prone to being attacked by the immune system.

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Mohiuddin applauded the researchers’ effort and called it a “first step” toward lung xenotransplantation, or the use of organs from other species into humans.

Fox News Digital reached out to the researchers for comment.

Cannabis gummies have grown in popularity in recent years, as more people turn to them to relieve pain, inflammation, anxiety and sleep issues, among other uses.

There is also a growing concern, however, about the THC-containing gummies getting into children’s hands — and mouths.

Reports of cannabis poisoning among children soared from 930 in 2009 to more than 22,000 in 2024 — and last year, more than 75% of all cannabis poisonings involved minors, according to America’s Poison Centers.

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Melissa Johnson, a licensed clinical social worker and the senior clinical director at Victory Starts Now in Los Angeles, said she is not surprised by the uptick in gummy cannabis poisonings among children.

“Companies are advertising gummy cannabis the same way they would sell candy to children,” she told Fox News Digital.

Dr. Darria Long, M.D., an emergency physician in Atlanta, Georgia, and a member of the BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board, confirmed that she’s aware of multiple children per week seeking medical attention for this issue.

“Gummies are particularly dangerous because kids don’t just eat one — they can eat an entire bag,” she told Fox News Digital. “So they’re ingesting somewhere around 10 adult servings in the body of a 30-pound child.”

“Gummies are particularly dangerous because kids don’t just eat one — they can eat an entire bag.”

Long said she has seen instances where someone bought cannabis gummies and unintentionally gave them to a child, not realizing they contained THC. 

“Some parents think, ‘but it’s natural, it can’t be dangerous,’ or ‘it’s just a little pot, it can’t be dangerous.’”

Symptoms and treatment

A child who has consumed cannabis gummies could come in lethargic or not breathing, and may have experienced seizures, Long told Fox News Digital.

In many cases, the child’s heart rate drops, and they may even go into cardiac arrest and require CPR. 

Treatment for gummy overdoses depends on how severe the situation is, according to Long. 

“Companies are advertising gummy cannabis the same way they would sell candy to children,” one expert told Fox News Digital. (iStock)

“Sometimes children need to be intubated and put on a respiratory machine, and sometimes they need electrical pacing of their heart because their heart rate is too slow,” she said.

They may also need IV medication, including epinephrine to keep them from going into cardiac arrest or other drugs to stop seizure activity.

CANNABIS USE RAISES RISK OF HEART ATTACK AND STROKE MORE THAN COCAINE, OTHER DRUGS, MAJOR REVIEW SUGGESTS

In severe cases, cannabis gummy poisoning can cause coma, death or long-term side effects, including problems with memory, attention and problem-solving skills, experts agree.

“Especially if they have periods during which their brain is not getting enough oxygen, they could have hypoxic brain injury, among other potential complications,” Long warned.

A child who has consumed cannabis gummies could come in lethargic or not breathing, and may have experienced seizures, an expert warned. (Photographer: Chet Strange/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Dr. Margret Chang, a pediatrician at UMass Memorial Health’s Tri-River Family Health Center in Uxbridge, Massachusetts, said it would be “highly unlikely” for these severe effects to develop in a child after just one exposure, as long as they get appropriate medical monitoring and care.

“However, if a child were to come in contact with a cannabis gummy from an illicit source that just happened to contain fentanyl or cocaine, the consequences of consuming that gummy would be far more deadly, and the long-term effects far more powerful,” she told Fox News Digital.

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THC can stay in a child’s system much longer than an adult’s, experts agree.

“It depends on what they have taken and how large a quantity was ingested, but I’m aware of cases where children took 24 to 36 hours or more just to become stable,” Long said.

THC can stay in a child’s system much longer than an adult’s, experts agree. (REUTERS)

Parents should watch out for symptoms such as sedation, difficulty breathing and confusion, Johnson advised.

“Parents should make sure to educate themselves on signs that their child may have ingested THC, so care can be administered as soon as possible,” she said. “If you think your child has ingested THC, get them to the nearest hospital or call 911 for immediate care.”

Prevention of cannabis poisoning

To keep children safe from toxic ingestion, experts agree that it’s best not to keep THC-containing products in the home.

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“If you do keep these in the home, they need to be treated the exact same way you would treat all prescription medications, which could be life-threatening if a child ingests them,” Long said.

“I think we need to know more about where the product is coming from and why it wasn’t kept away from a child.”

“That would include using a baby-proof or child-proof container, and keeping them out of reach and out of sight.”

She added, “If parents do use these types of products, they should avoid having them in forms that are at all tempting to children, like gummies, candy, brownies or cookies.”

“Sometimes children need to be intubated and put on a respiratory machine, and sometimes they need electrical pacing of their heart because their heart rate is too slow.” (iStock)

People should only use sources of cannabis gummies that come from registered dispensaries, Chang added.

“Failure to do so can lead to the acquisition of cannabis supplies that are contaminated with illicit substances such as fentanyl, cocaine and benzodiazepenes, which are added to products to make them more appealing to consumers.”

Industry source reacts

Riana Durrett, director of the Cannabis Policy Institute at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, said that while it’s “chilling” to hear stories about children seeking medical attention for cannabis gummy poisoning, “it doesn’t seem like the whole story.”

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“Data is showing that youth use is going down in states where cannabis legalization is occurring cannabis legalization is occurring — so in order to properly react and address increases in accidental consumption, I think we need to know more about where the product is coming from and why it wasn’t kept away from a child,” she told Fox News Digital.

To keep children safe from toxic ingestion, experts agree that it’s best not to keep THC-containing products in the home. (iStock)

“For example, if it is a product from an unlicensed source (which is likely if it is marked ‘kid-friendly’), then turning our attention to the licensed cannabis industry fails to address the actual problem and would fail to increase protections for children.”

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According to Durrett, connecting these incidents of child poisonings with cannabis legalization seems like an “insufficient explanation.” 

“I think more details about the source of the products and how the child accessed the product would be helpful in identifying more effective responses or policy changes,” she added. 

The first case of a travel-associated human screwworm infection has been detected in Maryland.

Andrew Nixon, spokesperson for the Department of Health and Human Services, confirmed to Fox News Digital that the patient had recently returned from a trip to El Salvador, a country affected by a screwworm outbreak.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) worked in conjunction with the Maryland Department of Health to investigate the case.

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The CDC confirmed the diagnosis on Aug. 4 after experts reviewed larvae images.

“The risk to public health in the United States from this introduction is very low,” Nixon said.

New World screwworm, also known as myiasis, is a parasitic infestation of fly larvae that feeds on live flesh, according to the CDC.

A person can contract myiasis when females drop their eggs on or near a person’s wound, nose or ears.

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It can also be transferred through ticks and mosquitoes after the fly attaches its eggs to the insects, per the above source.

In the case of an infection, a lump will develop in the person’s tissues as the larvae grow and eat flesh. It can be fatal if not treated at an early stage, health experts warn.

New World screwworm, also known as myiasis, is a parasitic infestation of fly larvae that feeds on live flesh. (USDA)

“Myiasis is not common in the U.S.,” the CDC states on its website. “Most people diagnosed with myiasis in the U.S. were infected when traveling to tropical areas where myiasis most often occurs.” 

Livestock such as cattle, sheep and goats are highly vulnerable, making it a significant economic pest, according to the CDC.

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Reuters reported last week that the CDC had confirmed a case of New World screwworm in Maryland from a person who traveled from Guatemala.

The discrepancy in the reports regarding the origin of the case has not been confirmed.

Livestock such as cattle, sheep and goats are highly vulnerable to myiasis. (iStock)

This summer, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins announced a plan to build a sterile fly facility in Texas to combat the pest.

It is estimated that a screwworm outbreak in Texas could cost the state’s economy $1.8 billion in livestock deaths, labor costs and medication expenses, according to Reuters. 

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There have not been any confirmed animal cases this year.

Fox News Digital reached out to USDA for comment.

Reuters contributed to this report.

Omega fatty acids may help protect women from Alzheimer’s disease, revealing why more women are diagnosed, according to a study from King’s College London and Queen Mary University of London.

The research, published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association, found that women with Alzheimer’s disease had fewer unsaturated fats—especially the healthy ones like omega fatty acids—compared to women without Alzheimer’s.

Researchers analyzed brain inflammation and damage in plasma samples of 841 Alzheimer’s disease patients, according to a press release. 

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Using mass spectrometry, researchers sorted 700 groups of lipid molecules found in the blood.

“Saturated lipids are generally considered as ‘unhealthy’ or ‘bad’ lipids, while unsaturated lipid, which sometimes contains omega fatty acids, are generally considered ‘healthy,’” scientists noted in the release. 

They found a steep increase in lipids with “unhealthy” saturated lipids in female Alzheimer’s patients. 

“The lipids with attached omega fatty acids were the most decreased in the Alzheimer’s group,” notes the study.

The study demonstrates a link between Alzheimer’s disease and fatty acids, though further research and clinical trials are necessary to confirm the link.

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The first author of the study, Dr Asger Wretlind of the School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, said scientists have been aware that Alzheimer’s disease is more common in women.

“Although this still warrants further research, we were able to detect biological differences in lipids between the sexes in a large cohort, and show the importance of lipids containing omegas in the blood, which has not been done before,” said Wretlind in the release.

Researchers analyzed brain inflammation and damage in plasma samples of 841 Alzheimer’s disease patients. (iStock)

He added, “The results are very striking, and now we are looking at how early in life this change occurs in women.”

About two-thirds of the 7 million Americans who have Alzheimer’s disease are women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).  

About 4.2 million women aged 65 and older have the disease.

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 “Our study suggests that women should make sure they are getting omega fatty acids in their diet – through fatty fish or via supplements,” said Dr. Cristina Legido-Quigley, Reader in Systems Medicine, in the release. 

Omega-3 fatty acids support brain health and can be found in fish such as salmon, chia and flaxseeds, walnuts, and supplements, according to the CDC. 

About two-thirds of the 7 million Americans who have Alzheimer’s disease are women. (iStock)

While the study did suggest women with Alzheimer’s had lower levels of some unsaturated fats compared to men, further research is needed, according to Dr. Julia Dudley, head of research at Alzheimer’s Research UK.

“This includes understanding the mechanisms behind this difference and finding out if lifestyle changes, including diet could have a role,” said Dudley.

She added that understanding how Alzheimer’s works in women rather than men could help doctors be more specific with future treatments and health advice.

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“Understanding how the disease works differently in women could help doctors tailor future treatments and health advice. Alzheimer’s Research UK is proud to be funding this work that will bring us a step closer to a cure.”

A new study found that hydration is key when it comes to managing stress. 

People who drink less than seven cups, or 1.5 liters, of water per day have a cortisol response to stress that is 50% higher than those who meet water intake recommendations. 

Researchers at Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) published the study in the Journal of Applied Physiology.

WEARABLE HYDRATION MONITOR COULD HELP PREVENT HEATSTROKE, SCIENTISTS SAY

Out of 62 healthy males and females, 32 participants were selected with both habitual low fluid intake and habitual high fluid intake.

Subjects who typically drank less than 1.5 liters of fluid per day were considered the “low-fluid” group, while the “high-fluid” group comprised people who drank the recommended amount of two liters for women and 2.5 for men. 

The participants’ fluid intake was monitored over seven days by testing the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) and hydration markers with blood and urine.  

The study found that drinking too little water increased stress-related health issues for both men and women. 

Professor Neil Walsh, study lead at LJMU’s School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, said in a press release that keeping a water bottle nearby during stress-related times can have potential benefits for your long-term health.

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“Cortisol is the body’s primary stress hormone and exaggerated cortisol reactivity to stress is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes and depression,” said Walsh.

A study team member, Dr. Daniel Kashi, said in a release that “both groups felt equally anxious and experienced similar increases in heart rate during the stress test.”

An important observation was that poor hydration was associated with greater cortisol reactivity to the stress test. (iStock)

He added that “only the ‘low-fluid’ group showed a significant increase in saliva cortisol in response to the stress test.” 

 “Although the low-fluid group did not report being thirstier than the high fluid group, they had darker and more concentrated urine, clear signs of poor hydration,” said Kashi.

“An important observation was that poor hydration was associated with greater cortisol reactivity to the stress test. Exaggerated cortisol reactivity to stress has been associated with poor long-term health,” Kashi added. 

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Long-term dehydration can lead to more serious health issues such as kidney damage and failure, anxiety and depression, heart problems, and diabetes, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Dehydration triggers the release of the vasopressin hormone, which puts pressure on the kidneys, making it harder to concentrate urine and manage electrolyte balance.  

Researchers suggest that monitoring urine color is a good way for people to check their hydration status. (iStock)

“Vasopressin also acts on the brain’s stress-response cent[er]” influencing where it can release of cortisol,” according to the LJMU release. 

The release added, “This dual role [of] vasopressin helps maintain blood volume and electrolyte balance but also increases cortisol.”

While researchers found that water intake recommendations should be followed, additional research and further long-term studies are needed.

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Researchers suggest that monitoring urine color is a good way for people to check their hydration status.

Light yellow urine color typically indicates good hydration. 

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“Being hydrated may help your body manage stress more effectively,” he said.

A genetic test could predict whether a child will be obese as an adult.

A global study, published in the journal Nature Medicine, found that the risk of severe obesity in adulthood can be identified in early childhood through a polygenic risk score (PGS).

The PGS acts as a “calculator” that combines the impact of different genetic risk variants that a person can carry, according to researchers.

YOUR DNA COULD BE STOPPING YOU FROM LOSING WEIGHT, NEW STUDY SUGGESTS

The test can be performed on children before their weight begins to shift, as early as age 5, according to a press release from the University of Copenhagen’s Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research (CBMR).

The researchers suggest that this may support early prevention strategies for obesity, like lifestyle interventions at a younger age.

“Overall, these data show that PGSs have the potential to improve obesity prediction, particularly when implemented early in life,” the researchers concluded in the study.

Lead study author Roelof Smit, assistant professor at the NNF Center, wrote in a press release statement that the score is “so powerful” due to its ability to predict adult obesity “well before other risk factors start to shape their weight later in childhood.”

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“Intervening at this point can have a huge impact,” he commented.

The major study was an international collaboration of human genetics researchers, consisting of more than 600 scientists from 500 global institutions, as well as the consumer genetics and research company 23andMe, Inc.

More than half of the global population is expected to be overweight or obese by 2035, according to the World Obesity Federation. (iStock)

After gathering genetic data from more than 5 million people, the scientists created what’s described as the largest and most diverse genetic dataset in reported history, using that to create the PGS.

The results showed that the PGS was twice as effective as the previous best test in predicting obesity risk, accounting for approximately 17.6% of a child’s risk of developing a high BMI (body mass index) as an adult.

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“This new polygenic score is a dramatic improvement in predictive power and a leap forward in the genetic prediction of obesity risk, which brings us much closer to clinically useful genetic testing,” study co-author Ruth Loos, a professor from CBMR at the University of Copenhagen, said in a statement.

Researchers suggest that these findings support early prevention strategies for obesity, like lifestyle interventions at a younger age. (iStock)

The scientists also discovered that those with a higher genetic risk of obesity were more responsive to lifestyle weight loss interventions.

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These individuals also gained weight back more quickly once the interventions ended.

The researchers noted that the new PGS has its limitations, as it was “far better at predicting obesity” in those who have a European-like ancestry than in those with African ancestry.

A Missouri resident died after being infected with a rare brain-eating amoeba at the Lake of the Ozarks, state health officials announced this week.

The patient, identified only as an adult from Missouri, died Tuesday at a St. Louis-area hospital, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) said in a news release.

Officials confirmed on Aug. 13 that the individual had contracted Naegleria fowleri, a microscopic amoeba that causes primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) — a rare but nearly always fatal brain infection often referred to as “brain-eating” disease.

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The victim was hospitalized in intensive care before succumbing to the infection, which was believed to have been contracted while water-skiing days before on the Lake of the Ozarks in central Missouri, Fox News Digital previously reported.

Naegleria fowleri is naturally present in warm freshwater such as lakes, rivers and ponds. The amoeba thrives in river and lake water at 80 to 115 degrees Fahrenheit, especially after storms.

The amoeba infects people when water enters the body through the nose, traveling to the brain where it destroys brain tissue.

DEATH CONFIRMED FROM RARE AND DEADLY ‘BRAIN-EATING AMOEBA’ IN SOUTHERN LAKE

Health officials stressed that the infection is extremely rare. Fewer than 10 cases are reported in the U.S. each year. 

Since 1962, only 167 cases have been documented nationwide, according to the DHSS. Missouri has confirmed just two other cases in its history — one in 1987, and another in 2022.

The department urged residents and visitors to take precautions when swimming or engaging in water sports in warm freshwater. It recommends holding your nose shut or using clips, avoiding stirring sediment in warm shallow water, not dunking your head in hot springs, and using distilled or boiled water for sinus rinses.

Officials urge residents and visitors to take precautions when swimming or engaging in water sports in warm freshwater. (iStock)

Symptoms of PAM can appear within one to 12 days of exposure and may include severe headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, seizures, confusion and hallucinations. Symptoms are likely to worsen over time, officials noted.

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“Early symptoms should prompt a medical evaluation, as they are also signs of bacterial meningitis,” Tammy Lundstrom, chief medical officer and infectious disease specialist for Trinity Health in Michigan, previously told Fox News Digital.

Drinking contaminated water does not present a risk, and the infection does not spread from one person to another, Lundstrom added.

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Treatment usually includes a variety of antifungal medications, as well as antibiotics like rifampin and azithromycin, she said.

The amoeba is most active in the months when the water temperature is above 77 degrees Fahrenheit, according to officials. (iStock)

No other cases are suspected in the area, the health agency stated in its press release.

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Fox News Digital has reached out to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services for more information.

Fox News Digital’s Melissa Rudy contributed to this report. 

Scientists at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) may have discovered a cause of aging in the brain.

The culprit is a protein called ferritin light chain 1 (FTL1), described as an iron-associated protein identified as a “pro-aging neuronal factor that impairs cognition.”

The study, published in the journal Nature Aging, compared how genes and proteins in the hippocampus, the region of the brain responsible for learning and memory, changed over time in old and young mice.

WHAT PEOPLE WHO LIVE TO 100 YEARS OLD HAVE IN COMMON, ACCORDING TO SCIENCE

Aged mice had a higher amount of FTL1, as well as fewer brain cell connections in the hippocampus and diminished cognitive abilities, according to a UCSF press release.

When FTL1 was artificially increased in young mice, their brains began to mimic the brains and behaviors of old mice.

When the protein was decreased in the old mice, they “regained their youth,” had more nerve cell connections and performed better on memory tests.

FTL1 also slowed down metabolism in the hippocampus cells of old mice.

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The researchers discovered, however, that treating these cells with a metabolism stimulation compound prevented these effects.

When the protein was decreased in the old mice, they “regained their youth,” had more nerve cell connections and performed better on memory tests. (iStock)

Saul Villeda, associate director of the UCSF Bakar Aging Research Institute and senior author of the paper, said he considers these findings a “reversal of impairment.”

“It’s much more than merely delaying or preventing symptoms,” he said in a press release statement.

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“We’re seeing more opportunities to alleviate the worst consequences of old age. It’s a hopeful time to be working on the biology of aging.”

Dr. Paul Saphier, a neurosurgeon and founder of Coaxial Neurosurgical Specialists in New Jersey, called these findings “really interesting” in an interview with Fox News Digital.

Alzheimer’s disease is directly linked to a buildup of amyloid proteins within the brain, research has shown. (iStock)

“There is no doubt that as proteins accumulate in various parts of the brain, certain neurodegenerative disorders occur,” he said. “Alzheimer’s disease is directly linked to a build-up of amyloid proteins within the brain.

“It’s much more than merely delaying or preventing symptoms.”

“If there is a mechanism by which we can slow and/or reverse the buildup of this FTL1 protein in the hippocampus, which is the main memory center of the brain, it stands to reason that we may improve/enhance cognition.”

Previous research has shown that modulating sugar and protein can reduce the rate of aging, Saphier pointed out.

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“I support this research and am certain there is ultimately going to be a breakthrough in this area,” he added.

The study was supported in part by the National Science Foundation, the Bakar Aging Research Institute and the National Institute on Aging.

An 11-year-old Ohio girl delivered the phone call of a lifetime, as she told her dad she was finally getting the heart transplant she’d been waiting for.

Ava Cooper, who was born in 2014 with several heart defects, underwent her first open-heart surgery at just 6 days old, SWNS reported.

Despite these treatments, her health took a turn in May 2024 when a sinus infection spiraled into heart failure. 

ORGAN DONORS’ LIVES ENDANGERED BY RUSHED TRANSPLANT PROCEDURES, INVESTIGATION FINDS

Doctors placed Cooper on the transplant list for a new heart, which seemed to be her only chance of survival, per SWNS.

“Heart transplants are recommended for children who have serious heart problems,” as stated by Johns Hopkins Medicine. “These children won’t be able to live unless their heart is replaced.”

Various health organizations report that the surgery is meant to replace a heart that can’t function as it should.

The healthy organ comes from a donor, typically an adult or child who is critically ill, often because of injury.

FORMER UFC FIGHTER BEN ASKREN RECEIVES DOUBLE LUNG TRANSPLANT DUE TO PNEUMONIA BATTLE, WIFE SAYS

Cooper spent more than 200 days at Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital as her family waited anxiously for an update. That moment came in March 2025. 

Her mother, Jamie Cooper, received the life-changing news and quickly shared it with the girl’s father, Sean Cooper, who was at home with the couple’s younger daughter.

Cooper, born in 2014, had her first open-heart surgery when she was just 6 days old. (SWNS)

He answered the phone to hear his little girl say, “Daddy, I’m getting a heart.”

“Oh, my goodness … Oh my goodness, Ava,” her dad said over the video call, his voice welling with emotion, according to SWNS.

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The heart transplant took place later that month, performed by pediatric and congenital heart surgeon Hani Najm, M.D.

Sean Cooper is pictured with his daughter, Ava, who received a heart transplant. (SWNS)

“I was so excited and couldn’t believe it was actually happening,” Ava Cooper told SWNS regarding the experience.

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After eight long months in the hospital, she was finally strong enough to return home. And for Sean, that phone call remains unforgettable.

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“Hearing Ava say those words, ‘I’m getting a heart,’ was overwhelming,” he said to SWNS.

“After everything she’d been through, we were finally one step closer to coming home for good.”

Kansas health officials say they are monitoring six West Nile virus cases this year and five of them have been considered serious.

As of Aug. 15, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) shows three cases located in the north-central Kansas region and three more in the south-central part of the state.

The KDHE says that five of the six cases are classified as neuroinvasive. Jill Bronaugh, a KDHE spokesperson, said non-neuroinvasive cases are less severe, according to a report by KSNT. 

Bronaugh explained that infected subjects with non-neuroinvasive cases have flu-like symptoms and neuroinvasive cases are much more severe.

MOSQUITO-BORN DENGUE FEVER CASES SURGE AT POPULAR US VACATION DESTINATION

“Neuroinvasive cases are those in which there is clinical evidence of involvement of the central nervous system in the disease process,” Bronaugh said. “These cases are generally more severe and include symptoms such as high fever, inflammation of the brain and/or the tissue surrounding the brain, disorientation, paralysis or muscle weakness, numbness, and vision loss. These cases generally have a longer recovery time and require more extensive medical intervention.”

According to a report by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), the numbers are still below last year’s totals, but some health officials are warning that the risk will rise as mosquito activity peaks in late summer.

Last year, Kansas recorded 64 infections, including four deaths, according to KDHE data.

MOSQUITO-BORNE VIRUS SPREADING THROUGH CHINA CAUSES HIGH FEVER, JOINT PAIN

A Culex quinquefasciatus mosquito is seen on the skin of a human host in the Centerd for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (REUTERS/CDC/James Gathany)

KDHE currently has a West Nile virus dashboard, which is updated on Fridays during the surveillance season, July through September.

According to the CDC, WNV is commonly spread through bites from infected mosquitoes during mosquito season starting in the summer.

Peak numbers are from August to early September, the CDC website reports, and yearly about 2,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed, although those numbers are low due to under-reporting caused by mild symptoms.

The CDC says typical symptoms such as high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness, or paralysis tend to show up 2–6 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.

Mosquitos are seen inside a trap in Pleasant Hill, California.  (Getty Images)

Unfortunately, there are no medicines available to treat West Nile, but the CDC notes that most who are infected recover.

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The CDC says that most people infected with the West Nile virus “are believed to have lifelong immunity or protection from getting the disease again.”

Health officials have urged residents to use precautions when going outdoors to protect themselves from mosquito bites. Officials suggest using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants outdoors, and eliminating standing water around homes where mosquitoes can breed.

The benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) in the medical space are ever-growing, but evidence suggests it can also come with risks.

A new study by European researchers investigated how AI can change the behavior of endoscopists when conducting a colonoscopy, and how their performance dips when not using AI.

The research followed clinicians at four endoscopy centers in Poland participating in the ACCEPT (Artificial Intelligence in Colonoscopy for Cancer Prevention) trial, where AI tools for polyp detection were introduced at the end of 2021.

FDA APPROVES FIRST AI TOOL TO PREDICT BREAST CANCER RISK

Colonoscopies at these centers were randomly selected to be administered with or without AI assistance.

The researchers gauged the quality of the colonoscopies by comparing the identification of tumors (also known as the adenoma detection rate, or ADR) three months before and three months after implementing the AI.

From September 2021 to March 2022, 1,443 patients underwent non-AI-assisted colonoscopies before and after the introduction of AI.

The study found that the tumor detection rate decreased “significantly,” going from 28.4% before AI exposure to 22.4% after AI exposure.

The findings were published in the journal Lancet Gastroenterology and Hepatology.

COLORECTAL CANCER DIAGNOSES SOAR AMONG YOUNGER ADULTS FOR ONE KEY REASON

Per the researchers’ analysis, exposure to AI, patient gender and age were “independent factors” associated with the tumor identification rate.

The researchers concluded that “continuous exposure to AI might reduce the ADR of standard non-AI-assisted colonoscopy, suggesting a negative effect on endoscopist behavior.”

Research identified a 6% drop in detection rates during non-AI-assisted colonoscopies. (iStock)

Harvey Castro, M.D., an emergency physician and specialist in AI and healthcare based in Texas, said he considers this study an “important piece of work.”

“This study highlights a paradox in medicine: Artificial intelligence can help us detect cancer, but it may also weaken the doctor’s own ability to see what matters when the tool is not available,” he said in an interview with Fox News Digital.

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Castro emphasized that even a 1% change can affect colon cancer survival for “thousands of patients,” which makes the 6% drop in detection rates significant.

“Even small changes in adenoma detection can shift cancer outcomes,” he said. “A reduction of a few percentage points is meaningful at a population level.”

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The expert recommends integrating AI “wisely” instead of avoiding it all together.

“As a physician futurist, I believe artificial intelligence is one of the most powerful tools we have for improving detection and saving lives,” Castro said. 

“Even small changes in adenoma detection can shift cancer outcomes,” said a doctor and AI expert. “A reduction of a few percentage points is meaningful at a population level.” (iStock)

“At the same time, this study reminds us of a simple truth: Medicine is still a human profession. The doctor’s eye, judgment and pattern recognition remain irreplaceable.”

Castro commented that the right path forward with AI in medicine is balance, designing it to strengthen clinicians instead of weakening.

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“That requires training, oversight and intentional design,” he said. 

“The best future is one where technology and humanity work side-by-side, doctor plus machine, ensuring patients get the safest and most effective care possible.”

Fox News’ Health newsletter brings you stories on the latest developments in healthcare, wellness, diseases, mental health and more.

TOP 3:

– Bindi Irwin shares painful medical journey

– Viral treadmill trend may burn more fat than running

– Valley fever cases hit record levels in West Coast state

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UNDER PRESSURE – Cutting out alcohol and medicating sooner could prevent “silent killer,” experts say. Continue reading…

DOSE DIVIDE – A major medical group goes against the CDC by recommending COVID shots for young kids. Continue reading…

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A total of five people have now died amid an outbreak of bacterial pneumonia, which has infected dozens of people in New York City, according to health officials.

As of Aug. 19, there have been 108 confirmed cases of Legionnaires’ disease, a type of pneumonia caused by the bacteria Legionella. 

Fourteen people are currently hospitalized, according to NYC Health.

DEATHS REPORTED AFTER LEGIONNAIRES’ DISEASE OUTBREAK AT SENIOR LIVING FACILITY

The cluster of cases is concentrated in Central Harlem and bordering communities (zip codes 10027, 10030, 10035, 10037 and 10039).

“Anyone in these zip codes with flu-like symptoms should contact a healthcare provider as soon as possible,” said Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse in the health department’s previous alert. 

Legionnaires’ is usually found in lakes, streams and other freshwater environments.

However, it can grow and spread indoors via shower heads, sink faucets, hot tubs, water features/fountains, plumbing systems and other water systems where conditions are favorable for the Legionella bacteria to grow, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

HIGHLY CONTAGIOUS DISEASE SURGES IN SOME US STATES AMID REPORT OF POSSIBLE FATAL CASE

When people swallow or breathe in droplets of water that contain Legionella, they can potentially become ill with Legionnaires’ disease.

The disease is not typically spread from person to person, per the CDC.

Legionnaires’ disease is caused by the bacteria Legionella, which can cause flu-like symptoms and respiratory problems. (iStock)

In the case of the New York City outbreak, the health department directed the state to perform remediation for 11 cooling towers that tested positive for the bacteria.

“Legionnaires’ disease can be effectively treated if diagnosed early, but New Yorkers at higher risk, like adults aged 50 and older and those who smoke or have chronic lung conditions, should be especially mindful of their symptoms and seek care as soon as symptoms begin,” Morse added.

Symptoms and risk

Symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease usually show up between two and 14 days after exposure. 

The condition usually causes flu-like symptoms, including cough, chills, muscle aches, fever or difficulty breathing.

Some patients may also experience nausea, diarrhea and confusion, the CDC noted. 

When people swallow or breathe in droplets of water that contain Legionella, they can potentially become ill with Legionnaires’ disease. (iStock)

“The nature of the symptoms is not necessarily what differentiates Legionella from other causes, but history of exposure from ‘human-made reservoirs,’ though this may be hard to discern early on in infection and/or in an outbreak,” said Goodyear.

Those who have any of these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately, the CDC advises.

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Groups at highest risk include smokers, people 50 and older, those with chronic lung disease and people who are immunocompromised, according to health officials.

“Other risk factors include advancing age, cardiovascular disease, obesity and compromised immune systems,” Dr. Nathan Goodyear, an integrative medicine physician at the Williams Cancer Institute in California, previously told Fox News Digital. 

Around 10% of people who contract Legionnaires’ disease will die from complications.

Diagnosis of Legionnaires’ disease is made via chest X-ray, urine test and lab analysis of a phlegm sample.

Most people with the disease will recover with a course of antibiotics.

In some patients, however, serious illness can lead to lung failure or death, per the CDC.

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Around 10% of people who contract Legionnaires’ disease will die from those complications — and the mortality risk rises to 25% for those who get Legionnaires’ while staying in a healthcare facility.

“Treatment needs to be early and aggressive,” Goodyear told Fox News Digital. “Legionella infection is an intracellular infection that requires antibiotic treatment.”

Legionella bacteria can grow and spread indoors via shower heads, sink faucets, hot tubs, water features/fountains, plumbing systems and other water systems. (iStock)

Antibiotics that are appropriate for Legionella infection include Levofloxacin and Azithromycin. 

“Therapy can be prescribed orally in healthy individuals … but intravenous antibiotics often prove to be the initial option for treatment secondary to the pathogenicity of the disease,” Goodyear said.

Prevention strategies

Currently, there are no vaccines for Legionnaires’ disease. 

The best strategy to prevent infection is to reduce the growth and spread of the Legionella bacteria.

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The CDC recommends that building owners and managers use a water management program to reduce the risk.

To prevent serious illness from Legionnaires’, Goodyear recommends that all smokers kick the habit, and also emphasizes the need to “aggressively support” chronic pulmonary disease.

A Connecticut man has been saved from a slippery situation.

An unidentified 40-year-old got himself stuck inside a tube slide at an elementary school playground in Vernon, Connecticut, on Aug. 16.

Just after 4:30 p.m., the Town of Vernon Fire Department, Vernon EMS and Vernon Police Department responded and were dispatched to Northeast Elementary School, according to a Facebook post by the fire department.

AMERICAN TOURIST FALLS 30 FEET OFF CLIFFSIDE TRAIL IN VACATION HOT SPOT

The first units that arrived found the man wedged headfirst in the middle portion of the slide.

Additional help was requested, including a fire truck, Rescue 141 and Tower 541.

The man was provided ventilation and oxygen via EMS because he was reportedly in “extreme discomfort” in the hot summer temperatures. 

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“As Rescue 141 was deploying tools for the extrication, Tower 541 set up adjacent to the playground on the grass and used the aerial ladder as a high point to stabilize the section of slide the firefighters were removing to reach the patient,” the fire department said on Facebook.

A firefighter slices into the midsection of a slide at Northeast Elementary School in Vernon, Conn., Aug. 16, 2025. (Town of Vernon Fire Department)

Within 30 minutes, the man was freed after the responders were able to remove the lower section of the slide, splitting it in two.

The man reportedly refused treatment and transportation to an emergency room.

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“While this is a unique call for service for the fire department, the professionalism shown on scene was exemplary,” the Vernon Fire Department reflected in the Facebook post, which has received viral attention from the public.

Firefighters, EMS and police officers in Vernon, Conn., assist in the rescue of a man stuck in a playground slide Aug. 16, 2025. (Town of Vernon Fire Department)

One Facebook user commented, “New fear unlocked. Kudos to that man for being active with his kids, and for teaching me a valuable lesson about tube slides.”

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“Imagine getting stuck [and] then they do a whole photo shoot of it for you,” another commented. “Poor guy.”

The measles outbreak in Texas has officially ended.

In a Monday press release, the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) reported the end of the outbreak, which centered in West Texas.

The announcement was made after no new cases had been reported for more than 42 days in counties that had previously shown evidence of ongoing transmission.

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As of Aug. 18, a total of 762 measles cases have been confirmed in Texas since the outbreak began in late January.

One of the first cases was in Gaines County, where a total of 414 infections were reported.

The virus has spread across the U.S. during 2025, marking a total of 1,356 confirmed cases in the country as of Aug. 5, according to the CDC.

More than two-thirds of Texas cases affected school-aged children. A total of 99 people were hospitalized and two children died.

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In a statement, DSHS Commissioner Jennifer A. Shuford, M.D., highlighted the “tireless work” of public health professionals across Texas, who “contributed to the containment of one of the most contagious viruses.” 

“We arrived at this point through a comprehensive outbreak response that included testing, vaccination, disease monitoring and educating the public about measles through awareness campaigns,” Shuford added.

A paramedic administers a dose of the measles vaccine at a health center in Lubbock, Texas, on Feb. 27, 2025. (RONALDO SCHEMIDT/AFP via Getty Images)

“I also want to recognize the many healthcare professionals who identified and treated cases of a virus that most providers had never seen in person before this outbreak.”

Potential risks remain

Forty-two days is double the disease’s maximum incubation period, according to DSHS, which is why experts consider the outbreak to be over.

But the threat of measles still looms, as ongoing outbreaks exist in North America and other areas of the world, which will “likely” lead to additional measles cases in Texas this year.

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“Healthcare providers should continue to be vigilant and test for measles if their patient has symptoms compatible with the virus,” the DSHS wrote in a press release.

“Measles is a highly contagious respiratory illness, which can cause life-threatening illness to anyone who is not protected against the virus.”

“Measles is a highly contagious respiratory illness, which can cause life-threatening illness to anyone who is not protected against the virus,” the DSHS wrote. (Jan Sonnenmair/Getty Images)

About one in five children who get sick will require hospitalization during a measles outbreak, and one in 20 will develop pneumonia, according to state health officials.

In rare cases, measles can lead to brain swelling and death, as well as pregnancy complications.

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The best way to prevent measles is through vaccination, per the guidance of DSHS and other public health experts.

This includes two doses of a measles-containing immunization, primarily administered as the MMR vaccine.

Signs point the way to measles testing in the parking lot of the Seminole Hospital District across from Wigwam Stadium on Feb. 27, 2025, in Seminole, Texas. (Jan Sonnenmair/Getty Images)

“It’s a factor of several times more contagious,” he said, noting that one infected person can impact about 10 to 15 other people.

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To protect against infection, Whyte emphasized the need to be aware of your surroundings and wear a mask in areas where cases have been detected.

He also recommends practicing “good handwashing” after touching surfaces, as well as keeping surfaces clean, as virus droplets can stick and spread when contact is made.

Dermatologists are warning about the dangers of a TikTok trend where teens create “sunburn tattoos.”

This entails allowing the skin to get sunburned while wearing stickers, tape or sunscreen in order to create artistic designs.

Although some young adults told Fox News Digital that they use their skin as a canvas to create these sunburn displays for social media attention and because it “looks cool,” skin care experts say this could be harmful to skin health.

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“Regardless of how creative or harmless it appears, any sunburn is skin injury,” Dr. Anthony Rossi, a double board-certified dermatologic surgeon in New York City, told Fox News Digital.

“This ‘sunburn tattoo’ trend still involves deliberate UV damage to the skin, which — over time — can increase the risk of both immediate and long-term consequences.”

Sunburn accelerates the skin’s aging process and elevates the risk of skin cancers, including melanoma, the deadliest form.

“A pattern that produces shapes might look cool in a photo, but it can create dangerous UV hotspots — and the damage is cumulative,” cautioned the doctor, who is also the founder of the Dr. Rossi skincare line.

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Rossi shared how many of his older patients recall the days of using iodine, baby oil and sun reflectors to tan — and now they are dealing with the consequences.

“I regularly see patients who had frequent tanning — whether via booths or exposure — during adolescence,” he said. “By their 30s and 40s, many of them already presented with pre-cancerous lesions or actual skin cancers.”

“Suntan tattoos” entail getting sunburned while wearing stickers, tape or sunscreen in order to create artistic designs. (Amazon)

“These can lead to multiple surgeries, scars and melanoma, which can metastasize and be fatal.”

Dr. Sara Moghaddam, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon who practices at Delmarva Skin Specialists in Selbyville, Delaware, noted that the sunburn tattoo trend is concerning and significantly increases the risk of future skin cancer in teenagers.

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“Experiencing five or more blistering sunburns between the ages of 15 and 20 can increase an individual’s melanoma risk by 80%,” Moghaddam told Fox News Digital. 

When a sunburn occurs, the UV radiation damages the DNA within skin cells, which leads to mutations that can cause cells to grow uncontrollably, potentially leading to skin cancer, she said.

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) confirms that every time the skin tans, it sustains some degree of damage.  (iStock)

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) confirms that every time the skin tans, it sustains some degree of damage. 

“As this damage builds, you speed up the aging of your skin and increase your risk for all types of skin cancer, including melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer,” the AAD’s website states.

Prevention tips

Both dermatologists said a spray tan may be a safer alternative to achieving a temporary “tan tattoo” look.

“Spray tans utilize dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a sugar that reacts with amino acids in the skin’s top layer, to create a temporary brown color,” Moghaddam said.

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“There’s no evidence that DHA from spray tans is harmful; the color simply fades as the skin naturally exfoliates.”

Rossi cautioned, however, that spray tans come with some risk if inhaled improperly. He also warned that they don’t protect against future burns.

“UV damage is insidious — it’s not just about the short-lived image, but the lifelong consequence,” a dermatologist said. (iStock)

To protect the skin from sun damage and reduce skin cancer risk, the AAD recommends seeking shade when possible, especially if “your shadow is shorter than you,” and to be mindful that the sun’s peak hours are between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.  

A sun protection routine should include using broad-spectrum sunscreen and wearing UV-protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses, when outdoors, experts advise.

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Rossi added, “UV damage is insidious — it’s not just about the short-lived image, but the lifelong consequence.”

Cases of Valley fever are spiking in California, according to health officials.

As of the end of July, there were 6,761 cases confirmed — which means if this pace continues, the total 2025 numbers will likely exceed the 12,595 cases seen in 2024.

Last year’s total was a new record for the state, where the average has been 7,000 to 9,000 cases annually between 2016 and 2024, per data from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).

MOSQUITO-BORNE DENGUE FEVER CASES SURGE AT POPULAR US VACATION DESTINATION

The case count is likely to increase due to delays in reporting.

“Valley fever is a serious illness that’s here to stay in California,” said Erica Pan, director of the state public health department, in a statement.

Named after the San Joaquin Valley in California, Valley fever is an infection caused by breathing in the spores of a fungus called Coccidioides, which originates in the soil. 

“Valley fever is a serious illness that’s here to stay in California.”

Southern Arizona and Southern California have the highest volume of cases, per the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) — but the disease is also prevalent in New Mexico, Nevada, Utah, Texas and parts of Washington state.

Research has shown that periods of drought followed by precipitation can promote growth of the Valley fever fungus, sending spores into the air that people breathe in.

MORE CASES OF DEADLY ‘FLESH-EATING’ BACTERIAL INFECTION IN POPULAR VACATION DESTINATION

Dr. George Thompson, a professor at UC Davis Health and co-director of the Center for Valley fever in Sacramento, previously spoke with Fox News Digital about the ramp-up in cases. 

“We have seen a gradual increase in cases over the last five years, and a greater number of patients are coming into our clinic for diagnosis and treatment,” he said at the time.

Risks and symptoms

While geographic location heightens the overall risk of contracting Valley fever, the CDC notes that certain groups are more vulnerable.

These include people 60 years of age and older, those who have weakened immune systems as a result of certain diseases or medical conditions, pregnant women, people with diabetes, and people who are Black or Filipino.

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Symptoms of Valley fever can vary in type and severity, but they tend to mimic those seen in patients with COVID-19, experts say.

“Some [people] may have a fever, chills or fatigue, or just feel generally unwell,” Thompson of UC Davis Health said.

Named after the San Joaquin Valley in California, Valley fever is an infection caused by breathing in the spores of a fungus called Coccidioides, which originates in the soil. (iStock)

However, he said he does see some severe cases where patients experience respiratory illness and difficulty breathing.

Other symptoms may include extreme fatigue, bone or joint pain, night sweats, fever, chest pain, severe headaches, weight loss and skin rashes, according to the CDPH.

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Thompson estimated that for 1% to 3% of people, the infection will leave the lungs and travel to other parts of the body, which can lead to meningitis.

People who experience severe Valley fever illness may need to be treated in a hospital, and may need ongoing medical care for months or years, health officials cautioned.

Since the fungus that causes Valley fever lives in the soil, infection is often “hobby-related,” an expert said. He said he sees many cases among people who are in archeology or who spend a lot of time outdoors.  (iStock)

Although it’s rare, people outside the high-risk groups can experience severe effects from Valley fever.

One of those is Rob Purdie from California, who contracted Valley fever in 2012 when he was 38. The infection led to meningitis, which caused severe headaches and double vision, he previously told Fox News Digital.

“Some [people] may have a fever, chills or fatigue, or just feel generally unwell.”

The spores of the fungus had spread from his lungs to his brain and nervous system, a potentially fatal condition.

More than a decade later, Purdie lives with the lingering effects of disseminated coccidioidal meningitis caused by Valley fever. 

Prevention strategies

Since the fungus that causes Valley fever lives in the soil, infection is often “hobby-related,” Thompson said. He said he sees many cases among people who are in archeology or who spend a lot of time outdoors. 

Anyone who has experienced cough, fever, fatigue or other Valley fever symptoms for more than seven to 10 days should see a doctor. (iStock)

For those in high-risk groups, the doctor recommends avoiding construction sites or areas where soil is often stirred up into the air. 

People can also wear an N95 respirator, a type of high-quality mask, to minimize exposure in dusty areas.

Diagnosis and treatment

Not everyone who acquires Valley fever requires medical treatment, although some may benefit from antifungal medications.

Those who have severe symptoms, take immunocompromising medications, have cancer, have HIV, are pregnant or have had an organ transplant are likely to need antifungals.

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A blood test sent to a lab can confirm a current or prior infection of Valley fever, and a chest X-ray or CT scan can detect cases of pneumonia, according to the CDC.

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Anyone who has experienced cough, fever, fatigue or other Valley fever symptoms for more than seven to 10 days should see a doctor, especially if they have been around dirt or dust in areas where the fungus is prevalent.

Francis Ford Coppola, director of “The Godfather,” was hospitalized in Italy last week for a non-emergency cardiac procedure.

The filmmaker, 86, sought to update a “30-year-old AFib procedure,” according to a post on his Instagram page.

AFib, or atrial fibrillation (AFib), is an “irregular and often rapid heart rhythm” that can raise the risk of blood clots, heart failure, stroke and other heart-related complications, according to the American Heart Association.

HEART ATTACK DEATHS HAVE PLUMMETED IN US, BUT NEW CARDIOVASCULAR THREATS EMERGE

After Italian media sources reported the director’s hospital visit, a representative for Coppola called it a “scheduled update procedure” and said he was “resting nicely.”

“All is well,” according to his representatives.

“Da Dada (what my kids call me) is fine,” the director said on his social media, speaking for what appears to be the first time about his condition.

He continued: “Taking an opportunity while in Rome to do the update of my 30-year-old AFib procedure with its inventor, a great Italian doctor — Dr. Andrea Natale! I am well!”

YOUR HEART MAY BE OLDER THAN YOU THINK — AND THE NUMBER COULD PREDICT DISEASE RISK

Dr. Bradley Serwer, an interventional cardiologist and chief medical officer at VitalSolution, an Ingenovis Health company, spoke with Fox News Digital about the condition.

“AFib is typically not immediately life-threatening, but it can lead to complications or issues in the future,” said the cardiologist, who has not treated Coppola.

The filmmaker, 86, sought to update a “30-year-old AFib procedure,” according to a post on his Instagram page. (Getty Images)

With AFib, the normal electrical activity in the heart changes to chaotic electrical signals, according to the Maryland-based cardiologist. This causes the heart to beat quickly and get out of rhythm. 

Instead of contracting normally, the upper chambers of the heart — called atria — start to quiver, causing blood clots to form. 

“When these clots break free, they can travel to the brain, causing a stroke,” Serwer cautioned.

‘I’M A CARDIOLOGIST – HERE’S HOW THE SUMMER HEAT COULD DAMAGE YOUR HEART’

For many people, AFib may have no symptoms, but for some, it can cause a fast or pounding heartbeat, shortness of breath or lightheadedness.

“AFib can be challenging due to its diverse manifestations,” Serwer noted.

There are several procedural approaches to treat atrial fibrillation, according to the cardiologist.

There are multiple treatment options for AFib, which is not always life-threatening. (iStock)

The most common procedure is called an ablation, which is when a specialized cardiologist uses catheters to follow the heart’s electrical activity. The doctor then burns the sites where the AFib begins. 

“This procedure has a high rate of success and complications are low, making it a highly valued option,” Serwer noted.

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If a patient is undergoing open-heart surgery for coronary artery disease or valvular heart disease, a surgeon can perform a “maze procedure,” which creates a “maze-like pattern of scar tissue” in the upper chambers of the heart to block irregular electrical signals, according to Mayo Clinic.

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There are also procedures to reduce the risk of stroke in patients who have AFib, but who may not be able to take blood thinners. 

By placing a small device where blood clots form, the rate of stroke drops significantly, Serwer said.

AFib may cause a fast, pounding heartbeat, shortness of breath or lightheadedness. (iStock)

In some cases of atrial fibrillation, the condition can come and go, but other patients may experience persistent AFib, the cardiologist said. 

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While it’s not usually life-threatening, AFib is still considered a serious medical condition that requires proper treatment.

Serwer advised, “If you experience sudden-onset dizziness or palpitations that persist, it is imperative to seek immediate evaluation from a medical professional.”

After 13 years of “fighting for answers,” Bindi Irwin says she is finally healing. 

In a heartfelt Instagram post, the conservationist revealed the removal of 51 endometriosis lesions, a chocolate cyst, her appendix, and repair of a hernia from childbirth. Dr. Tamer Seckin, an endometriosis specialist, removed them all during two separate surgeries.

BINDI IRWIN FIGHTS TO BE HEALTHY FOR HER FAMILY FOLLOWING EMERGENCY SURGERY

“I felt utterly ashamed as a teenager and young adult,” Irwin wrote, speaking about the painful endometriosis symptoms she suffered.

Her message? No young woman should feel ashamed or alone with pain that’s too often dismissed as “just part of being a woman.”

BINDI IRWIN UNDERGOES EMERGENCY SURGERY AFTER SHOWING SIGNS OF ‘DISCOMFORT’ AND ‘PAIN’

Irwin, daughter of the late “Crocodile Hunter” Steve Irwin, first revealed her diagnosis in March 2023, through a post on social media. The conservationist’s story highlights a condition affecting millions worldwide. Here’s what to know.

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis affects roughly 10 percent of reproductive-aged women worldwide; in the U.S. alone, it impacts about 9 million women. Diagnosis is often delayed, averaging five to 12 years after onset of symptoms due to stigma and misdiagnosis, according to research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Endometriosis affects roughly 10 percent of reproductive-aged women worldwide. Symptoms are often painful and long-lasting. (iStock)

The World Health Organization defines endometriosis as a condition that occurs when tissue like the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing pain, inflammation, and even infertility.

Common symptoms include pelvic and abdominal pain, painful periods, pain during intercourse, digestive issues, heavy bleeding, and fatigue.

BINDI IRWIN’S EMERGENCY SURGERY TOOK UNEXPECTED TURN FORCING HER TO MISS STEVE IRWIN GALA

When treatment doesn’t help symptoms, the next step is often laparoscopic surgery, which uses small incisions to remove or ablate lesions.

This surgery often means a faster recovery and fewer complications compared to more invasive open surgery, called a laparotomy, which involves one long incision across the abdomen.

Surgeries to remove lesions may help improve fertility in some women. (iStock)

Recovery typically takes two to four weeks, though healing may take longer depending on the extent of surgery and individual health.

While relatively rare, risks of the surgery can include infection, bleeding, damage to nearby organs, and gas-related discomfort.

Beyond symptom relief, procedures like Irwin’s may preserve fertility by removing growths. 

Irwin says she is “beginning to recognize” herself again after treatment. (Paul Archuleta/Getty Images)

In May 2025, the Seckin Endometriosis Research Center opened at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, backed by $20 million in funding. It represents the first major U.S. facility solely dedicated to understanding endometriosis, developing non-invasive diagnostics, and improving treatments.

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Irwin’s story sheds light on the difficult battle many women face when trying to find answers to their physical pain. Her post urges broader, open conversations about women’s health on a global scale.

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“I can function in everyday life without wanting to throw up or pass out from the pain,” Irwin shared.

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“Slowly, slowly gaining my strength back. I cannot express the gravity of my emotions as I am beginning to recognize myself again.”

People with multiple sclerosis (MS) may show warning signs long before classic symptoms appear — and mental health concerns could be among the first red flags, according to new research.

A University of British Columbia (UBC) study, published last week in JAMA Network Open, examined the medical records of 2,038 patients with the autoimmune disease and compared them to 10,182 patients without it. 

The researchers found that future MS patients had elevated rates of mental health-related issues, psychiatrist and general practice visits, and complaints of vague symptoms such as fatigue and pain — all as early as 15 years before the onset of clear symptoms.

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“These findings suggest that MS may begin much earlier than previously recognized, with mental health–related issues as early indicators,” the researchers wrote.

MS, which attacks the protective myelin coating around nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, affects about one million adults in the U.S., according to Cleveland Clinic.

While there is no known cause or cure, treatment can help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease, which can cause muscle weakness, vision changes, numbness and memory issues.

Previous research has shown that in the five to 10 years leading up to an MS diagnosis, people typically seek medical attention more frequently for headaches, fatigue, sleep disorders, pain, gastrointestinal issues and psychiatric concerns, the researchers wrote.

ALWAYS RUNNING LATE? A MENTAL HEALTH CONDITION COULD BE TO BLAME, EXPERTS SAY

The UBC study, however, tracked physician visits in the 25 years leading up to the onset of symptoms in MS patients in British Columbia. 

They found a steady uptick in general practice visits starting 15 years out, followed by more frequent trips to psychiatrists beginning 12 years before symptoms. 

Neurology and ophthalmology visits increased eight to nine years prior, likely due to blurred vision or eye pain, two common early symptoms of MS.

An early increase in psychiatric visits may indicate the earliest stages of MS-related immune dysregulation, the study suggests. (iStock)

Three to five years before onset, emergency room and radiology visits rose sharply. Across nearly every specialty, physician visits peaked in the year before symptoms began.

Psychiatrist consultations, in particular, skyrocketed 159% before MS onset, and mental health visits increased 76%, according to the research. 

The increase in psychiatric visits may correlate to the earliest stages of MS-related immune dysregulation, as higher levels of certain inflammation-related chemicals and problems with the blood-brain barrier can affect mood, the researchers noted.

Improving outcomes

While most people who experience mental health issues, fatigue and headaches do not develop MS, the researchers said that recognizing and characterizing the “prodromal phase” — the early period marked by subtle symptoms — could speed up diagnosis and improve outcomes.

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“Mental health and psychiatric-related issues may be among the earliest features of the prodromal phase of MS, preceding nervous system-related symptoms and neurologist visits by several years,” senior author Dr. Helen Tremlett, professor of neurology at UBC, told Fox News Digital.

“This suggests that in the future, there may be an opportunity to recognize and manage MS early, maximizing mental health and brain reserve,” she said.

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The findings also open “new avenues for research into early biomarkers, lifestyle factors and other potential triggers that may be at play during this previously overlooked phase of the disease,” the researcher added.

Early warning signs of MS may emerge more than a decade before classic neurological symptoms, according to experts. (iStock)

Monitoring for early warning signs could also potentially help to detect other brain diseases, like Alzheimer’s or ALS, and ensure early intervention, Tremlett noted.

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Between 2016 and 2021, MS cases increased globally from about 2.2 million to as many as 2.9 million, according to research published in July in the journal Frontiers in Neurology. 

The disease has gained public attention in recent years as celebrities like Selma Blair, Christina Applegate and Montel Williams have shared their experiences of living with MS.

An experimental cancer vaccine has shown promise in keeping certain cancers from coming back.

In a phase 1 clinical trial led in part by the UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, researchers tested the vaccine (ELI-002 2P) with 25 patients who had been treated for pancreatic and colorectal cancer.

The patients had all undergone surgery to remove tumors and showed “signs of minimal residual disease” or traces of DNA, putting them at a high risk of recurrence, according to a UCLA press release.

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More than 80% of pancreatic cancer patients experience recurrence of the disease after surgery, research shows — and for 40% to 50%, this happens within the first year.

For colorectal cancer, the recurrence rate is between 30% and 50% and is most likely to occur within the first two years after surgery.

Mutations in the KRAS gene are responsible for half of colorectal cancers and more than 90% of pancreatic cancers. The vaccine, which targets those mutations, was given via a series of injections to activate an immune response in the lymph nodes.

A majority (21 out of 25) of the patients generated “KRAS-specific T cells,” which indicates a stronger immune response. The ones with higher T-cell responses showed a longer relapse-free survival compared to those with lower responses, the researchers found.

MAN’S DEADLY BRAIN CANCER TUMOR DISAPPEARS AFTER EXPERIMENTAL DRUG TRIAL

For three colorectal cancer patients and three pancreatic cancer patients, the vaccine appeared to remove all disease biomarkers.

Among the patients who showed the strongest immune response, a majority were still cancer-free nearly 20 months after receiving the vaccine.

The findings were published in Nature Medicine.

A majority (21 out of 25) of the patients generated “KRAS-specific T cells,” which indicates a stronger immune response.  (iStock)

“This is an exciting advance for patients with KRAS-driven cancers, particularly pancreatic cancer, where recurrence after standard treatment is almost a given and effective therapies are limited,” said first author of the study, Zev Wainberg, M.D., professor of medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and researcher in the UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, in the release. 

“We observed that patients who developed strong immune responses to the vaccine remained disease-free and survived for much longer than expected.”

“The new cancer vaccine from UCLA is very promising as a major tool against these cancers.”

In another finding, 67% of the patients in the trial showed immune responses to “additional tumor-associated mutations,” indicating that the vaccine could be used to suppress “broader anti-tumor activity.”

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One of the benefits of ELI-002 2P, according to the researchers, is that it’s considered “off-the-shelf,” which means it’s a mass-produced, standardized vaccine that doesn’t have to be personalized for each individual patient.

“This study shows that the ELI-002 2P vaccine can safely and effectively train the immune system to recognize and fight cancer-driving mutations,” Wainberg said. 

For colorectal cancer, the recurrence rate is between 30% and 50% and is most likely to occur within the first two years after surgery. (iStock)

“It offers a promising approach to generating precise and durable immune responses without the complexity or cost of fully personalized vaccines.”

The team has already finished enrolling participants for a phase 2 study that will test ELI-002 7P, the next iteration of the vaccine that will target a “broader set” of KRAS mutations, the release stated.

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The study was sponsored and funded by Elicio Therapeutics, the Massachusetts company that developed the vaccine.

It was conducted in conjunction with the MD Anderson Cancer Center and the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

More than 80% of pancreatic cancer patients experience recurrence of the disease after surgery, research shows — and for 40% to 50%, this happens within the first year. (iStock)

Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News senior medical analyst, was not involved in the study but commented that targeted therapies are becoming increasingly important tools in the fight against cancer.

“Solid tumors, especially pancreatic, can be difficult to treat because they are not as mutagenic (capable of inducing or causing mutations) as hematological malignancies (blood cancers) or melanoma, for example, so they don’t have as many ready targets for immunotherapy,” he told Fox News Digital.

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“The new cancer vaccine from UCLA is very promising as a major tool against these cancers, as it ‘programs’ the immune system to target these mutations and has been shown in the NATURE study to elicit a strong clinical response.”

Tennis champion Monica Seles is speaking publicly for the first time about her battle with a rare, incurable muscle-weakening disease.

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic neuromuscular disease that causes weakness in “voluntary muscles,” according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokes.

Voluntary muscles are the ones that connect to the bones, face, throat and diaphragm. They contract to move the arms and legs and are essential for breathing, swallowing and facial movements.

‘GREY’S ANATOMY’ STAR DIAGNOSED WITH AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE AFTER ALARMING SYMPTOMS

“My MG journey over the past five years has not been an easy one,” Seles said in a press release announcing her collaboration with the immunology company argenx. 

“I felt isolated and defeated, as many of the activities I enjoyed were no longer physically possible for me.”

Seles’ partnership with argenx aims to raise awareness and understanding of MG, and to connect those affected with available tools and resources.

What to know about myasthenia gravis

Myasthenia gravis is classified as an autoimmune disease, according to Dr. Earnest Lee Murray, a board-certified neurologist at Jackson-Madison County General Hospital in Jackson, Tennessee.

This means the body’s own defense system attacks the connection between the nerves and muscles.

“I felt isolated and defeated, as many of the activities I enjoyed were no longer physically possible for me.”

“Myasthenia gravis is different from other neuromuscular diseases in that oftentimes, patients’ symptoms fluctuate throughout the day,” Murray told Fox News Digital.

Overall symptoms range from very mild double vision and droopiness of the eyelids to difficulty walking, breathing and swallowing.

“My MG journey over the past five years has not been an easy one,” Seles said in a press release. (argenx)

“Some patients who start with only mild eye symptoms can progress to more severe symptoms in the first few years of their diagnosis,” the doctor added.

However, some patients only experience eye issues.

MINI-STROKES MAY CAUSE SURPRISING LONG-TERM HEALTH ISSUE, EXPERTS WARN

Heat, such as from summer weather or hot showers, can make symptoms worse, according to experts. As physical exertion can also exacerbate symptoms, Murray noted that patients must pace themselves.

Certain health conditions — like COVID-19, the flu or urinary tract infections — can trigger a serious worsening of symptoms, called a “myasthenic crisis,” which often leads to hospitalization for closer respiratory monitoring.

Overall symptoms range from very mild double vision and droopiness of the eyelids to difficulty with walking, breathing and swallowing. (iStock)

It’s important for patients to let their physicians know they have myasthenia gravis before starting a new medication, Murray said, as some drugs, including antibiotics, can worsen symptoms. 

“If there is a question, patients can always check with their neurologist,” he advised.

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Doctors typically manage MG in two ways. First, they may prescribe a medication like pyridostigmine, which can temporarily reduce muscle weakness, according to Mayo Clinic.

They may also prescribe medications that calm the immune system to stop it from attacking the nerves and muscles.

Certain health conditions — like COVID-19, the flu or urinary tract infections — can trigger a serious worsening of symptoms. (iStock)

In the past, this immune suppression was done with steroids like prednisone. Now, there are newer medicines that target the disease more directly. These targeted treatments can work well and may cause fewer side effects, according to Murray.

While MG can be serious, the doctor stressed that it’s not the end of the road. 

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“Most patients live a fairly normal life, both personally and professionally,” he said. “With close management and a neurologist familiar with MG, treatments can be tailored to optimize patients’ quality of life.”

Anyone who experiences occasional double vision, eyelid drooping or weakness that gets worse with fatigue should talk to their doctor about getting tested, Murray recommends. 

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Diagnosis usually involves blood tests, nerve tests and a neurological evaluation.

Symptoms like trouble breathing, swallowing or holding the head up require immediate emergency care, Murray said.

Fox News Digital reached out to Monica Seles requesting comment.

Cases of dengue virus continue to surge in Hawaii, with the state recently reporting the 12th case so far this year.

One case was confirmed on the island of Maui, with the remaining 11 occurring on Oahu.

In the latest case, the person was exposed while traveling in a region where dengue is common, the Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) reported.

TIGER MOSQUITOES BLAMED FOR SPREAD OF DENGUE FEVER: ‘MOST INVASIVE SPECIES’

Dengue fever is a virus spread through bites from an infected mosquito. 

It is common in the Americas, Africa, the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific Islands, as well as many Caribbean destinations, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Other countries reporting spikes in dengue fever include Mexico, Fiji, French Polynesia, Tonga, Samoa, the Philippines, Colombia and Brazil. Puerto Rico also has an ongoing dengue outbreak, along with American Samoa. 

In 2024, there were 1,984 dengue cases in the U.S., according to CDC data.

While mosquitoes carrying dengue may be present in Hawaii, the disease is “not endemic” in the state, the DOH stated, adding that “cases are currently limited to travelers.”

Symptoms and treatment

Typical symptoms of dengue include aches and pains (in the eyes, muscles, joints, or bones), nausea, vomiting and rash — usually experienced within two weeks of being bitten.

Most people experience symptoms for two to seven days before recovering.

DENGUE FEVER CASES RISING IN POPULAR SPRING BREAK LOCATIONS, CDC ALERTS

“It’s typically a more mild illness, but can be severe, causing headaches, joint pain, fever, abdominal pain and even death,” Dr. Mark Fischer, regional medical director of International SOS, a leading medical and security services company, previously told Fox News Digital. 

There is not currently any medication to treat dengue, according to the CDC. 

While mosquitoes carrying dengue may be present in Hawaii, the disease is “not endemic” in the state, the DOH stated, adding that “cases are currently limited to travelers.” (iStock)

Infected people are advised to rest, take acetaminophen for pain and fever, stay hydrated and see a doctor.

There is a vaccine available for U.S. children between 9 and 16 years of age who have previously tested positive for dengue and are living in areas where the infection is common.

Prevention of mosquito-borne disease

In its alert, the Hawaii DOH called for travelers returning from dengue-endemic areas to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites for three weeks.

“If dengue symptoms develop within two weeks of return, travelers should seek medical evaluation,” the health agency advised.

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Experts also recommend eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed. Some examples include buckets, water-catching plants (such as bromeliads), small containers, planters, rain barrels and even cups left outside, per the DOH. 

“Pouring out containers of standing water can significantly reduce the potential for mosquito breeding,” the agency stated.

Experts recommend eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed. (iStock)

Fischer added, “It’s important to wear insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin or lemon and eucalyptus oil, as these ingredients are the most effective at repelling mosquitoes and other insects.”

“Those who live in areas with mosquito populations should try to wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, especially at dusk and in the evening, when mosquitoes are most active, to avoid getting bitten on exposed skin.”

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Keeping screens on windows and doors is also a good way to prevent insects from entering and potentially causing the spread of disease, he said. 

“If you live in an area that has a high level of mosquito-borne diseases, you should use mosquito nets when sleeping and eliminate any standing water in and around the home, since still bodies of water are breeding grounds for the insects,” Fischer added.

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Experts recommend using EPA-registered insect repellent when spending time outdoors in areas where mosquitoes and ticks are prevalent.

Those who are spending prolonged time outdoors should consider treating their clothing with permethrin, which helps to repel insects.

A Missouri resident has been infected with a rare brain-eating amoeba, possibly linked to water-skiing in the Lake of Ozarks.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) confirmed the infection on Wednesday.

The unidentified adult is hospitalized in an intensive care unit and being treated for primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), a deadly infection caused by Naegleria fowleri, commonly known as the brain-eating amoeba.

DEATH CONFIRMED FROM RARE AND DEADLY ‘BRAIN-EATING AMOEBA’ IN SOUTHERN LAKE

No other cases are suspected in the area at this time, the health agency stated in the press release.

While the source of the patient’s exposure has not been confirmed, the DHSS reported that the patient may have been water-skiing in the days leading up to the illness.

“Recreational water users should assume that Naegleria fowleri is present in warm freshwater across the United States; however, infection remains very rare,” the agency stated.

Naegleria fowleri can be a risk when swimming in fresh water, as the amoeba can enter through the nose. 

FOUR PEOPLE DEAD IN FLORIDA FROM FLESH-EATING BACTERIA FOUND IN COASTAL WATERS

The amoeba is most active in the months that the water temperature stays above 77F – July, August and September, according to health officials.

Infection in humans is very rare, with only 167 reported cases of PAM in the U.S. between 1962 and 2024. 

Warning signs to recognize

The initial symptoms of PAM usually begin about five days after exposure, but they can be noticed sooner.

Early signs usually include headache, nausea, fever and/or vomiting, the CDC’s website states.

The amoeba is most active in the months that the water temperature stays above 77F – July, August and September, according to health officials. (iStock)

As the infection progresses, people may experience confusion, stiff neck, disorientation, hallucinations, seizures and coma.

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“People usually start to feel ill one to 12 days after water exposure,” Tammy Lundstrom, chief medical officer and infectious disease specialist for Trinity Health in Michigan, previously told Fox News Digital. “Early symptoms should prompt a medical evaluation, as they are also signs of bacterial meningitis.”

Death can occur anywhere between one and 18 days of infection, at an average of five days.

Prevention of infection

To prevent potentially fatal infections, health officials recommended taking precautions when swimming in freshwater.

“Hold your nose shut, use nose clips or keep your head above water when taking part in activities in bodies of warm freshwater, especially if you jump or dive into the water,” the Missouri health officials cautioned.

The unidentified adult is being treated for primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), a deadly infection caused by Naegleria fowleri. (iStock)

Lundstrom reiterated that it’s best to avoid immersing your head in the water when swimming in summer.

“Infection occurs when water harboring the amoeba goes up a person’s nose, usually during swimming,” she previously told Fox News Digital. “It is not known why some people get infected and others, even swimming companions, do not.”

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Drinking contaminated water does not present a risk, and the infection does not spread from one person to another, Lundstrom added.

Because the amoeba is found in soil, the CDC also recommends avoiding stirring up the sediment at the bottom of lakes, ponds and rivers.

Treatment of brain-eating amoebas

When a patient has been diagnosed with a brain-eating amoeba, treatment usually includes a variety of antifungal medications, as well as antibiotics like rifampin and azithromycin, according to Lundstrom. 

Miltefosine, a newer antifungal drug, has been shown to kill Nagleria fowleri in laboratory tests and was used to treat some surviving patients, the CDC states on its website.

“Infection occurs when water harboring the amoeba goes up a person’s nose.”

“However, the effect of all of these drugs on actual infected people is unknown due to the high fatality rate,” Lundstrom noted.

Those who experience sudden headache, fever, stiff neck or vomiting — especially if they have recently been swimming in warm freshwater — should seek immediate medical attention, the CDC recommends.

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Despite the infection’s high fatality rate, Lundstrom emphasized the rarity of cases. 

“Millions of people enjoy swimming every summer, but only a few become infected,” she said.

Katie and Dustin Maletich, Oregon parents of four, have gone viral on social media for a parenting moment that’s sparked some debate.

After Dustin’s 9-year-old stepson, Tommy, told his mother to “chill,” he was instructed to do several push-ups and 60 squats as a form of discipline.

The workout was met with a father-son conversation about the tone in which he should be speaking to his mother. Tommy was attentive and apologized to his mom.

STEPDAD PUNISHES BOY’S DISRESPECT WITH PUSHUPS AND SQUATS IN VIRAL VIDEO

Dustin Maletich, who is a corrections officer at a prison, ended the confrontation with an “I love you” and a hug.

While some praised the stepfather for his approach, others were concerned about using physical exercise as a form of punishment.

Dr. Dyan Hes, pediatrician and medical director at Highline Modern Medicine in New York, reacted to this discipline method in an interview with Fox News Digital, calling it a “ridiculous punishment.”

“If you have ever done 60 squats, you know it is painful, especially in a young prepubescent child,” she said. “Regardless, this is still a form of corporal punishment. Exercise should invoke positive connotations, not negative ones.”

GRANDMOTHER’S RESPONSE TO MOM ‘GIVING IN’ TO TODDLER AT DINNER SPARKS HEATED DEBATE

Educational psychologist and parenting expert Dr. Michele Borba shared a different perspective, stating that the stepfather approached it the “right way” by responding calmly and enforcing a punishment that seemed familiar and doable for the child.

The California-based expert was more concerned about how posting the video online could emotionally impact the child and invoke “public shame.”

In an on-camera interview with Fox News Digital, the Maletich family shared that fitness isn’t used as a punishment for their children, but as a method of teaching self-control and emotional regulation. (See the video at the top of the article.)

“It’s never like, ‘We’re punishing you because you were bad,'” Katie Maletich said. “It’s, ‘Hey, let’s help you figure out some better self-control and a better outlet for whatever is going on.’”

FAMILY VACATION DRAMA ERUPTS OVER GRANDMOTHER’S REQUEST FOR DINNER WITH HER GROWN KIDS ONLY

Dustin Maletich added, “We try to have the consequences correlate with the inappropriate behavior. If you demonstrate the inability to control your actions, then by doing physical activity, you’re showing yourself that you are in control of your actions.”

“There are plenty of times that I get frustrated,” he went on. “I can’t lash out at my boss. I can’t yell at somebody. I can’t throw a tantrum. That’s not the way the world works.”

Katie and Dustin Maletich joined Fox News Digital for an on-camera interview on August 13, 2025. (Angelica Stabile/Fox News Digital)

The couple shared that their oldest daughter, who is 13, chooses to walk or jog if her emotions are feeling out of control, before engaging in a conversation with her parents.

“[Our daughter] said, ‘I don’t want to have a sit-down conversation with you when I’m cranky,’ but when she goes jogging on the treadmill, she said she finds that afterward, she’s able to better communicate her feelings because she’s more centered,” Katie Maletich said.

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“Our kids like working out. They don’t do it every day, but I think overall they enjoy it, because it’s such a central part of our home.”

Fitness is a “positive bonding experience” for the Maletichs, she said. “They feel better, and they voice it afterward … They’re happier, they’re less frustrated. And so, to us, we see that as a win.”

Fitness is regarded as a “positive bonding experience” for the Maletichs, they shared. (Seaira Skinner Photo)

This approach to discipline can differ for each child and circumstance, the Maletichs shared, which involves “intention and intuition.”

“The biggest thing is just learning to respond as a parent rather than reacting,” Katie said.

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The couple’s approach to parenting is “we’re not raising kids, we’re raising adults,” Dustin shared.

“I think putting more focus on how our kids are going to be able to handle life when they’re adults is more important than figuring out how to make them happy and comfortable right now,” Katie said.

The couple’s approach to parenting is “we’re not raising kids, we’re raising adults,” Dustin Maletich shared. (Seaira Skinner Photo)

For other parents, Katie noted that physical activity has worked “really well” when followed by “connection and conversation.”

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“That’s a really essential part of this,” she said. “You have to explain it to them afterward and make sure that connection, both emotionally and to the issue and consequence, is there.”

The couple also responded to the backlash they received after posting the video, mentioning that they asked their son for consent before sharing it. He responded with hopes that it would go viral.

Fox News’ Health newsletter brings you stories on the latest developments in healthcare, wellness, diseases, mental health and more.

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– Actor shares subtle sign of colorectal cancer he ignored

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– Ancient Viking diet makes a modern comeback

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TOUGH LOVE — A viral video shows a stepdad using exercise as punishment after his stepson told his mom to “chill,” sparking millions of views and mixed reactions. Continue reading…

MISSING LINK — New research reveals that lithium in the brain could help protect against neurodegeneration and Alzheimer’s disease. Continue reading…

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A fitness trend that took TikTok by storm, racking up more than 14 million views, may have some science behind it.

The 12-3-30 treadmill workout, popularized by influencer Lauren Giraldo, promises a fat-burning, low-impact fitness solution: Walk at a 12% incline, at a pace of three miles per hour, for 30 minutes.

But how does it compare to regular running?

FORGET 10,000 STEPS — RESEARCH REVEALS THE REAL NUMBER YOU NEED FOR BETTER HEALTH

A new peer-reviewed study published in the International Journal of Exercise Science compares the 12-3-30 trend to “self-paced” treadmill running. 

Researchers sought to determine not just how many calories each method burns, but how the body fuels each workout — specifically, whether the body uses carbohydrates or fat as fuel.

In the study, 16 healthy young adults (male and female) participated in two workouts: one session of 12-3-30 and one session of running at a pace they could maintain for about 20 to 25 minutes. 

Both workouts were adjusted to burn the same total number of calories.

SIMPLE JAPANESE FITNESS TREND COULD ADD 7 YEARS TO LIFE EXPECTANCY, EXPERTS SAY

The researchers discovered that 12-3-30 took longer to complete than running to achieve the same output.

Running burned calories faster — roughly 13 calories per minute versus 10 calories per minute for 12-3-30.

Maelee Wells Sutton, a certified personal trainer at Crunch Fitness in New York, told Fox News Digital that it is “no surprise” calories are burned faster during a workout with higher aerobic intensity. 

The 12-3-30 method has its benefits, particularly for beginners or those with joint concerns, despite it taking longer than traditional running to burn the same amount of calories. (iStock)

“Walking at 12-3-30 is certainly more intense than walking on a flat surface, but is less intense than a run,” she said.

However, 12-3-30 used more fat as a fuel source — about 41% of energy came from fat, compared to 33% during running. Running also relied more heavily on carbohydrates for energy.

Potential limitations

The participants in the study were already exercising at least three times a week for the last three months, according to Sutton. 

“That means [the study] doesn’t consider less active individuals, who actually make up a large percentage of the population,” she said. “Essentially, we can’t draw conclusions about how the average person’s body may adapt to these workouts over time.”

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The researchers emphasized that the actual fat-burning advantage of 12-3-30 is modest. Total calories burned still matter more for weight loss than whether you’re burning fat or carbs.

“This study confirms what exercise science has already known: the ‘fat-burning’ percentage of a workout is not the same as total calorie burn,” Sutton added.

Running burned calories faster, the study found — roughly 13 calories per minute versus 10 calories per minute for 12-3-30. (iStock)

Which is better?

If you’re short on time and want to burn a certain number of calories quickly, running seems to be more efficient.

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But if your goal is to burn more fat, and you prefer a lower-impact workout, the 12-3-30 method has its benefits, particularly for beginners or those with joint concerns, the study suggests.

The most important thing with exercise is consistency, according to Sutton.

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“If a person dislikes running but loves 12-3-30, it’s far better to do that consistently than to force a certain workout that a person rarely completes,” she said.

“Trends should be viewed through both a scientific and personal lens — look to experts for guidance rather than relying on social media.”

Days after Kelly Clarkson’s ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, passed away at the age of 48, the cause of his death was revealed.

On August 11, it was reported that the talent manager died after a private battle with melanoma, a form of skin cancer.

“Brandon Blackstock passed away peacefully at his home in Butte, Montana on August 7 under hospice care surrounded by his family,” Silver Bow County Coroner Dan Hollis told Fox News Digital. 

TV HOST DISCOVERS HE HAS SKIN CANCER DURING LIVE ON-AIR BROADCAST

“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away. Brandon bravely battled cancer for more than three years. He passed away peacefully and was surrounded by family. We thank you for your thoughts and prayers and ask everyone to respect the family’s privacy during this very difficult time.”

The singer, who was married to Blackstock for seven years before their divorce in 2022, reportedly “remained protective” of her ex as he battled cancer for three years. 

What to know about melanoma risks

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S. — with one in five Americans developing the disease by the age of 70.

MOM CREDITS TIKTOK VIDEO FOR CANCER DIAGNOSIS AFTER SPOTTING STRANGE NAIL MARKING

Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, expected to take the lives of more than 8,400 people in the U.S. this year, according to the American Cancer Society.

“Melanoma has a significantly higher chance of spreading than basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, the most common types of skin cancer,” said Marcus Monroe, MD, surgeon and investigator with the Huntsman Cancer Institute and associate professor at the University of Utah School of Medicine, previously told Fox News Digital. 

On August 11, it was reported that the talent manager died after a private battle with melanoma, a form of skin cancer. (Michael Buckner/Getty Images for Celebrity Fight Night)

The chances of melanoma spreading to other locations increases with each stage of cancer.

“For the earliest stage, this risk is estimated at less than 5%, increasing for patients with stage 2 disease to a wider range, from 5% at the low end up to 40% to 50% for the most advanced stage 2 patients,” said Monroe.

In stage 3 patients (those with regional spread either via in-transit metastases or to adjacent lymph nodes), up to 30% to 40% will develop distant metastases, with a 16% to 17% risk of brain metastases, the doctor added.

Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, expected to take the lives of more than 8,400 people in the U.S. this year.

The brain and lungs are the most common sites of metastasis for melanoma, experts confirmed.

If the patient has lesions that are deep in the skin or involve the lymph nodes, the chance of melanoma spreading is higher — anywhere from 20% to 70%, according to Jose Lutzky, MD, director of cutaneous oncology services at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center in South Florida.

Treatment and prevention

Metastatic melanoma was once considered mostly treatment-resistant because it did not respond to traditional chemotherapy and radiation, noted Dr. Joshua Strauss from Advanced Care Oncology and Hematology Associates of the Atlantic Medical Group in Morristown, New Jersey.

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S. — with one in five Americans developing the disease by the age of 70. (iStock)

“Nowadays, using targeted therapies and immunotherapy survival has been dramatically improved, and there is a possibility of long-term remission with treatment,” Strauss previously told Fox News Digital.

Lutzky noted that melanoma is almost always curable by surgical removal when it’s detected early. 

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“Because of advances in the treatment of melanoma over the last 10 to 15 years, even very advanced melanoma can be cured in up to 50% of cases with modern immunotherapy treatment,” he told Fox News Digital. 

“More recently, cell therapy has been approved to treat those advanced melanomas that do not respond to immunotherapy.”

Prevention of melanoma

To prevent melanoma, it’s important to reduce exposure to ultraviolet radiation, especially in people with lightly pigmented skin, Strauss advised. 

“Sunscreen and sun-protective clothing are critical,” he said.

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The American Academy of Dermatology recommends applying water-resistant sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, and SPF 30 or higher, before sun exposure.

“Indoor tanning bed use should be avoided because it is known to be associated with increased melanoma risk,” Strauss added.

High-risk individuals should also have yearly skin checks with a dermatologist, experts recommend. (iStock)

High-risk individuals should also have yearly skin checks with a dermatologist.  

“This includes individuals with a personal history of skin cancer, family history of melanoma, people who take medications that suppress the immune system, and people who are highly sun-sensitive, such as those with red or blond hair, light skin pigmentation, significant freckling and light eye color,” the oncologist said.

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Strauss uses the acronym ABCDE to differentiate between a normal mole and a melanoma. 

“Moles with Asymmetry, irregular Borders, multiple Colors, Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and Evolving or changing characteristics require further evaluation,” he said. 

Fox News’ Christina Dugan Ramirez contributed reporting.

A stepfather has gone viral for using exercise to discipline his stepson — and then sharing the video on Instagram.

The boy was caught telling his mother to “chill” after he was told to stop his current behavior.

His stepdad stepped in, asking the boy, “Did you just tell your mom to ‘chill’?”

GRANDMOTHER’S RESPONSE TO MOM ‘GIVING IN’ TO TODDLER AT DINNER SPARKS HEATED DEBATE

He then instructed his stepson to do several push-ups, followed by 60 squats.

“Count ‘em,” the man told his stepson calmly, as he moved through the workout. “Keep squatting. All the way down.”

The punishment was followed by a conversation where the stepdad asked, “Do we tell our mom to chill out?”

The boy replied, “No.”

The man responded, “Absolutely not. I will not let you talk to my girl that way … Would I let anyone else talk to her like that? No. So, you don’t get to talk to her like that.”

FAMILY VACATION DRAMA ERUPTS OVER GRANDMOTHER’S REQUEST FOR DINNER WITH HER GROWN KIDS ONLY

The two hugged it out, and the boy apologized to his mother with a wholesome, “Sorry, Mom.”

The stepdad ended the conversation by reassuring the boy that he was loved.

“Hey, I love you,” he said.

The video, which was posted on the family’s Instagram account, raisingmaletich, has since gone viral on social media, receiving millions of views.

“I will never stop being grateful to be raising kids with a real man who knows how to be a father, especially to his boys.”

The mother, who wrote the caption for the video, shared the following.

“I will never stop being grateful to be raising kids with a real man who knows how to be a father, especially to his boys. This is masculinity. I was trying to send a work email while making breakfast for my family and my son kept asking me to use my phone after I had repeatedly told him ‘No, you need to wait.’ His dad overheard him tell me to ‘chill’ and here is how he handled it.”

The parenting approach was met with mixed reactions, but many social media users shared their praise.