Automated external defibrillator (AED) can be found in most public spaces, and a new study suggests that individuals in cardiac arrest are almost twice more likely to survive if a bystander administered the AED before first responders arrived. Circulation, February 2018

Warm moist environments, such a bathrooms or locker rooms, are the most likely places for contracting the virus that causes plantar warts. To help reduce your risk, the American Podiatric Medical Association suggests the following: avoid walking barefoot, especially high-risk places; change shoes and socks daily; keep your feet clean and dry; avoid contact with…

Iron-deficiency anemia develops when your body does not have enough iron to make healthy red blood cells or when your blood cells do not work properly. The Office on Women’s Health lists the following symptoms for this condition: fatigue; weakness; dizziness; headaches; low body temperature; pale skin; rapid or irregular heartbeat; shortness of breath; chest…

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), chewing gum increases the flow of saliva in the mouth, which can neutralize and wash away harmful acids produced by chewing food, offering some protection to the teeth. Currently, the ADA grants a Seal of Acceptance to companies that provide proof that their gum can safely and effectively…

In this study, researchers analyzed data concerning nearly 137,000 older drivers in the United States who had been hospitalized after a crash and found that those in states with in-person license renewal laws were about 38% less likely to have dementia. Study co-author Dr. Steven Albert writes, “The results of our study point to age-based…

While adopting an exercise program or switching to a healthier diet can increase one’s chances for weight loss by about 500-700%, a new study involving 1,488 New Zealanders found that both starting an exercise routine and eating a healthy diet can boost one’s odds for losing weight by over 1,700%! BMC Public Health, February 2018

Due to improvements in screening and treatment, researchers report that the survival rate of breast cancer patients rose about 32% between 2000 and 2012. Lead researcher Dr. Sylvia Plevritis explains, “Mammography is an important contributor to the reduction in breast cancer mortality… But the overall benefit is greater largely because of the advances in treatment.”…

When choosing a nursing home for a loved one, it is important to find the right fit both personally and financially. The National Institute of Aging recommends the following: determine what’s most important for your loved one, such as nursing care, meals, physical therapy, hospice care, or special-care services; ask for recommendations from friends, relatives,…

When it comes to divorce, it’s important to be open and honest with children. The American Academy of Pediatrics offers the following suggestions for divorcing parents: keep communication clear and simple; do not promote the idea that the divorce is the child’s fault or that the child can help rectify the situation; reassure the child…

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration recommends the following to achieve a healthier lifestyle: don’t smoke or abuse drugs; limit alcohol intake; make healthy food choices; exercise regularly; maintain a healthy weight; manage your blood pressure; get enough sleep; and maintain a strong relationship with your healthcare provider and ask your them about…