Health

The rate of severe obesity in the United States has steadily increased over the past few decades, creating a significant public health challenge. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), severe obesity—defined as a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher—has doubled in the past 20 years​(CDC). This rise in obesity statistics in the USA has brought greater attention to the health risks, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, as well as the underlying causes and available treatment options. In this …

When Dr. Anthony Fauci contracted West Nile virus, he faced weeks of recovery and uncertainty about whether he would ever return to normal. His case highlights the real threat posed by this mosquito-borne disease, which can lead to serious illness, especially in older adults or those with weakened immune systems. The story of Fauci’s struggle reminds us that West Nile virus is a significant public health concern. Understanding how it spreads, the symptoms it causes, and how to prevent it is essential to reducing the …

Attendees at the Salt Shed concert may have been exposed to potentially rabid bats, as reported by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). Rabies, a deadly virus that affects the central nervous system, is a serious public health concern, especially when associated with rabid bat exposure. As the most common source of rabies in the United States, bats play a critical role in the transmission of this virus. Understanding the risks of rabies from bat bites and knowing how to respond to a potential …

The discovery of the brain’s glymphatic system—a hidden network that removes waste from the brain—has unlocked new possibilities for understanding and treating Alzheimer’s disease. For years, scientists struggled to understand how the brain, an organ that requires a significant amount of energy, cleans itself of harmful substances, such as amyloid beta proteins. These proteins are associated with the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. With the first-ever images of the brain’s cleaning process, researchers are hopeful that this breakthrough could lead to innovative treatments and …

The use of antidepressants in children and teenagers has long been a topic of concern, especially since the FDA antidepressant warnings regarding suicide risk were introduced. The FDA’s decision to issue a black box warning antidepressants label in 2005 raised questions about the impact of these warnings on both mental health care and suicide prevention. While the intent was to protect young patients from potential side effects, recent studies have found that these warnings may have had unintended consequences, potentially increasing suicide risk in some …

The opioid crisis continues to plague communities across the United States, with overdose deaths being a stark reminder of the epidemic’s devastating toll. While overdose deaths in Sacramento County have recently shown a decline, San Joaquin County is witnessing an alarming rise. Understanding the nuances of this situation, the role of fentanyl overdose, and the need for overdose prevention measures such as Narcan distribution is vital for reversing the growing crisis. Overdose Deaths in the USA: A National Crisis Overdose deaths in the United States …

For much of human history, people marveled at the possibility of extending human life expectancy. However, recent research suggests that human life expectancy might be approaching its natural limits. With life expectancy in the USA and other developed countries leveling off or even decreasing, the dream of continually extending our lifespans is being called into question. In this blog, we will explore the global trends in life expectancy, the factors influencing these changes, and whether longevity research can help us break the ceiling on human …

As global health concerns evolve, the need for accurate information and preparedness becomes more critical. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently heightened their travel advisories due to Ebola-related risks. The CDC’s decision to begin testing travelers from Rwanda for an Ebola-like illness reflects a renewed effort to prevent the spread of deadly viruses. For those planning to travel, especially to regions impacted by the Ebola virus, understanding the risks, Ebola symptoms, travel restrictions, and prevention measures is essential for safety. This blog …

Accurately monitoring your blood pressure at home is a vital step toward managing hypertension and preventing cardiovascular diseases. However, many people unknowingly make simple mistakes that can lead to incorrect blood pressure readings. With an estimated 47,500 monthly searches related to blood pressure monitoring, the topic has become increasingly important as more people rely on home devices. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to avoid common mistakes in blood pressure measurement, optimize home blood pressure monitor accuracy, and understand the impact of equipment like …

Sleep is an essential part of our lives, but have you ever wondered whether men and women have different sleep needs? The question “Do women need more sleep than men?” is more than just an intriguing topic—it’s one that scientists have actively researched. Recent findings suggest that women may indeed require more sleep than men for various reasons, from hormonal fluctuations to differences in brain activity during sleep. In this blog, we’ll delve into the science behind gender differences in sleep, why women might need …