Radio Health Journal
The latest in health, science, technology, and the intersection of medicine and public policy.
A new study shows that americans’ diets are getting better… but only by a little. Then, if someone gets a new diagnosis of hearing loss, getting a hearing aid will lower their risk of being diagnosed with dementia, depression, or anxiety. And finally, if you want to feel better about your spouse, look at pictures of him or her along with pictures of cute puppies and bunnies.
A large number of hospitals in rural areas have closed, and many more have closed their maternity units, leaving many rural mothers-to-be with no nearby place to deliver their babies or even get prenatal care. Experts discuss the financial and demographic reasons behind these closures, the danger it presents to mothers and children, and some ways to counter the risk.
When you call 9-1-1 for an ambulance, paramedics are supposed to take you to the closest hospital. But a new study shows that doesn’t happen about 40 percent of the time. Then, Flu season is rapidly approaching again. And finally… A study finds that if you want to live longer, take a nap.
Fluoride in community drinking water has been controversial since its introduction nearly 75 years ago. A new study adds to this with evidence that pregnant women who drink fluoridated water may produce children with slightly lowered IQ. The study author and two other experts discuss what’s known and what the ramifications of the study could be for communities, for oral health, and for children.
As much as 16 percent of the population suffers from Trypophobia, which makes them uneasy at the sight of holes clustered together, as in a honeycomb. Two experts and a sufferer discuss this phobia, which can be remarkably debilitating.
A quarter of people who develop the brain plaques of Alzheimer’s disease apparently can compensate for the deficit. Then, Scientists may have found a way to roll back your biological age. And finally, A study on mice in the journal “Cell Metabolism” shows that a high-fat diet produces inflammation in the hypothalamus.
The availability of consumer DNA tests and databases has allowed long-hidden family secrets to be revealed, including mistaken paternity and unknown siblings. It has also taken the anonymity away from some cases of sperm donation. Two experts discuss the ethics of overturning this promised secrecy and the impact that the revelation of secrets can have on entire families.
Dr. Joel Salinas has mirror touch synesthesia, a condition involving cross-wiring in the brain. The result is that visual stimuli prompt a response in his touch system. He literally feels it when people experience pain. Salinas discusses how this strange condition works and how he is able to use it in diagnosis.
Cancer survivors having a higher risk of heart disease and other illnesses. Then, a new study shows that prescription omega 3 fatty acids can significantly reduce high triglycerides. And finally, a new study shows that being optimistic is one of the best things you can do for your lifespan.
Nail biting is an extremely common habit, but some people bite their nails so badly and so often that they suffer damage to their hands. Experts discuss why so many of us are driven to bite our nails, what can be done to stop it, and the damage that can occur when we can’t stop.
Violence increases as temperatures rise in the summer, but are higher temperatures a cause of aggression? New research shows that the answer is yes, especially in family conflict, and that poor neighborhoods bear the brunt of the relationship. Researchers discuss the synergy between poverty, heat, and aggression, and speculate that a warmer world in the future could be a more violent one.
More drivers than ever are running red lights.Then, people have noticed a bump in premature births where a hurricane is approaching. And finally, you may want to start thinking about cooking with rose water or even drinking it.
The Trump Administration has proposed wholesale import of drugs from Canada to ease high US prescription drug prices. But since Canada is 1/10th the size of the US, could it supply enough drugs to make a difference?
The US spends more on medical care than other nations while quality still lags behind. A health industry expert explains how increased use of primary care and increased engagement with providers could reverse both trends.
Nodding off very often during the day may be an early warning sign of Alzheimer’s disease. Then, surveys show that about a tenth of Americans over age 18 either use illicit drugs or don’t use their medications the way they’re supposed to. And finally, If you’re really stressed, a nice glass of red wine really could be just the ticket.
College students are facing more stress than ever, but may be less prepared to handle it. As students head back to campus, two experts discuss how students can reduce stress.
A new study shows that people are more likely to have heart disease if they're genetically predisposed to insomnia. Then, vaping is being called a “gateway drug” for marijuana use… After a new study showing it can more than triple the risk of becoming a pot smoker. And finally… if you want toddlers to learn something, don’t use video.
Death rates due to heart failure have been increasing since 2012 despite improvements in medicine and surgery. Then, Binge drinking is often seen as a problem among college students and 20-somethings… but a study in the journal of the American Geriatrics Society finds that a lot of senior citizens binge drink, too. Then, ACL tears have traditionally been thought of as the result of one bad …
Experts believe about 40 percent of the food available in America is thrown away. Solving this environmental problem also creates an opportunity to help with food insecurity. It starts with consumers. Experts explain where waste comes from and how people can cut down on its production.
Epilepsy can show itself in many ways, including as episodes of giggling and laughing. An expert discusses the case of a then-nine-year old boy with such seizures, the danger they posed, and the novel way he was treated.
A blood test for early Alzheimer’s disease could be just a few years away. Then, what makes a murderer? it could be less gray matter in the brain. And finally, hot tub owners may have the secret to a good night’s sleep.
High levels of copper in the body can produce mental health symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and aggression. However, most doctors don’t test for copper levels and may prescribe medications like antidepressants instead.
Plagues can wipe out entire populations and create fear and great mystery in how they spread. An author who has explored plagues and dangerous diseases explains.
Subscribe to get the latest from Radio Health Journal directly in your inbox.
