Keep Young Athletes Safe from Injury. The American Academy of Pediatrics reports that young athletes who play multiple sports are more likely to stay active for the rest of their lives and meet their athletic goals. The academy recommends that kids wait until they are at least 15 years of age before focusing on one…

Preventing Dry Skin. To combat dry skin, the American Academy of Dermatology suggests the following: take a shower and shampoo your hair after swimming; use sunscreen before going outdoors; avoid using deodorant or antibacterial body washes; keep your bath or shower water warm, not hot; use a fragrance-free moisturizer as soon as you get out…

Decision-Making Tool Could Reduce Antibiotic Use. Investigators have identified seven key predictors that could help determine if a child with a respiratory tract infection and cough requires antibiotics. The predictors include an illness of less than three days; fever of 100 F (37.7 C) or higher; a child younger than two years of age; respiratory…

Keep Kids Safe Outdoors. Most children relish outside activities when it’s warm out, but parents need to take steps to help ensure the safety of their kids. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the following: protect kids when they’re near water, make sure kids know how to swim, and encourage adults to learn…

First Comprehensive Cancer Blood Test Within Reach. A research review of thousands of studies has allowed researchers to identify 788 biomarkers in blood that could be used to develop an early stage cancer screening test. The scientists hope that once clinical studies are completed, they will have a suite of about 50 biomarkers that can…

Use Your Neti Pot Safely. A Neti pot can be extremely helpful for clearing clogged sinuses as well as offering relief from uncomfortable nasal congestion. The Food and Drug Administration offers these guidelines for proper use: wash and dry your hands before use, thoroughly clean the Neti pot and dry before each use, use clean…

Check Those Moles. If you have a lot of moles on your body, you need to check your skin often for changes and warning signs associated with skin cancer. To accomplish this, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends the following: regularly inspect your skin, evaluate all of your moles; look for changes or unusual looking…

Higher Drinking Age Could Lower Illness Rates. Raising the minimum drinking age may have more benefits than just lowering drunk driving rates. Researchers analyzed data on American adults who turned 18 years old between 1967 and 1990. The team examined if young people who were legally able to drink before their 21st birthday had a…

Removing Mold & Mildew. Mold and mildew build-up in the home can lead to a number of poor health outcomes. Experts from the Federal Emergency Management Administration offer the following suggestions for eliminating mold and mildew from your home: wear a mask, eye protection, and gloves while cleaning; make sure to have adequate ventilation; thoroughly…

Keep Your Child’s Sandbox Safe. For decades, children have played in sandboxes. But while these play areas allow kids to express their creativity and enjoy the outdoors, sandboxes can also harbor germs. To help keep your child’s sandbox safer, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests: use only natural river or beach sand, cover the sandbox…