How to Floss Properly
The American Dental Association offers the following instructions on how to floss: use a piece of floss about 18 inches long; wrapped at each end around a finger; hold the floss taut between your fingers; gently and slowly slide the floss between each tooth; carefully shape the floss into a C at the gum line,…
Read MoreLifestyle Factors for Preserving Cognitive Function
The current research supports the following lifestyle behaviors for preserving cognitive function as one ages: don’t smoke, avoid excessive alcohol consumption, and get regular exercise. Applied Neuropsychology, Adult, November 2022
Read MorePosterior Shoulder Instability Management
Posterior shoulder instability is a shoulder injury that’s more common among young men who engaged in high-contact sports. A comprehensive review concluded that in most cases, patients with posterior shoulder instability should utilize non-surgical care options for at least six months before considering a surgical procedure. The review notes that care should concentrate on proprioceptive…
Read MoreUrban COPD Patients May Be at Fitness Disadvantage
A study that included 404 patients with mildto-severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) identified an association between living in a more densely populated areas and fewer steps taken per day, more time spent engaged in sedentary activities, and less exercise capacity—all of which may lead to worse outcomes for COPD patients. Environmental Research, November 2022
Read MoreUltra-Processed Food Linked to Colorectal Cancer in Men
According to an analysis of data on over 200,000 adults, a high intake of pre-cooked and instant meals—particularly processed meat products—is associated with an elevated risk for colorectal cancer in men, but not women. BMJ, August 2022
Read MoreFine Particulate Air Pollution Linked to Gestational Diabetes
Fine particulate matter is a mixture of dust, dirt, soot, smoke, and liquid droplets in the air, most commonly from gasoline combustion and the burning of wood and coal. A recent study found that increased exposure to fine particulate matter air pollution during the second trimester of pregnancy is associated with higher blood glucose levels…
Read MoreSafe, Healthy Habits for Kids
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents help their children adopt these habits to stay both safe and healthy as they grow up: put away their toys and clean up their messes; allow parents to help them brush their teeth twice daily; wash their hands after using the bathroom and before and after they…
Read MoreBlood Type May Influence Stroke Risk
Following a review of health histories of nearly 17,000 people, researchers report that individuals with type A blood are 16% more likely suffer a stroke before age 60 than those with other blood types. On the other hand, the risk is lowest for those with type O blood. The researchers explain that type O blood…
Read MoreNeck and Low Back Pain Are Common in Future Dentists
Among a group of 73 dental students whom researchers monitored during their time in dental school, 61.6% developed neck pain and 49.3% experienced low back pain. Interestingly, the risk for low back pain leveled off by their second year, while the risk for neck pain increased throughout their time in dental school. Past research has…
Read MorePeople in Their 80s Should Walk 10 Minutes Each Day
Researchers report that those in a group of 7,047 octogenarians who walked for at least ten minutes each day were 40% less likely to die in the following five years. European Society of Cardiology, August 2022
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