Researchers analyzed data collected from almost 1,200 current and former smokers with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and found that a 1 degree (Celsius) rise in ambient temperature increased the likelihood of an exacerbation of COPD symptoms by 2% over the following two days. European Respiratory Society, September 2021

According to a new study, children born to women who were obese during early pregnancy appear to have up to a three-times increased risk for fatty liver disease, which is associated with several poor health outcomes. Lead author Dr. Hannes Hagström writes, “The findings are important because obesity is becoming more common at a young…

Interviews with over 1,600 parents revealed that nearly all considered symptoms of apnea (snoring and/or gasping) among their children to be a problem, but most failed to share these concerns with their child’s healthcare provider. Researcher Dr. Kurt Lushington writes, “While there does need to be more education for parents on symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing—particularly…

Using data from the Nurses’ Health Study I and II, researchers report that a high intake of added sugar is associated with an increased risk for breast cancer, and a diet characterized by less added sugar and more servings of fruit and vegetables is linked to a lower risk for the disease. European Journal of…

An analysis of data concerning over 13,000 older adults revealed that eating several servings of vegetables a day and sleeping 7-8 hours a night can reduce one’s risk for early death in the following six years by up to 34%. BMC Geriatrics, June 2021

Using data from the decades-long Nurses Health studies, researchers estimate that women with osteoporosis have up to a 40% increased risk for moderate-to-severe hearing loss, even if they’re taking medications to slow bone loss. Journal of the American Geriatric Society, May 2021

While a body mass index in the normal range is associated with a reduced risk for cardiovascular disease, the American Heart Association reports that individuals should also mind their waist circumference. Experts point out that excess fat in the midsection, even in those with a BMI in the normal range, can signify more fatty tissue…

An analysis of eleven years of data concerning over 8,000 adults revealed an association between sleep disorders and poor cardiovascular health, particularly in women. European Heart Journal, April 2021

Using data from the New York Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System, researchers report that individuals diagnosed with influenza-like illness have up to a 39% increased risk for stroke in the near future. BMC Public Health, May 2021

According to a study that analyzed data from a dermatology clinic in San Francisco, visits for atopic dermatitis (eczema) and general itching increased following a major wildfire 175 miles away. Study co-author Dr. Raj Fadadu writes, “Skin is the largest organ of the human body, and it’s in constant interaction with the external environment. So,…