FDA approves new blood test for colon cancer screening: ‘Early detection is critical’

Screening for the second leading cause of cancer deaths just got a bit easier.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the approval of a new blood test for colorectal cancer (CRC).

Shield, made by Guardant Health in California, is the first approved blood test that is considered a primary screening option for the disease and meets Medicare coverage requirements, the company stated.

WHAT IS COLORECTAL CANCER? SIGNS, SYMPTOMS, RISKS AND MORE OF THE GLOBAL HEALTH CONCERN

The FDA’s approval, announced Tuesday, follows a large clinical trial that included 20,000 average-risk adults, which found that Shield had an 83% sensitivity for the detection of CRC.

Those findings were published in The New England Journal of Medicine in March.

There is another approved blood test, Epigenomics’ Epi proColon, but it is a second-line screening option, which means it can only be given to patients who have been offered first-line options and have a history of not completing CRC screening, according to Michael Weist, a spokesperson from Guardant Health.

Robert Smith, PhD, senior vice president of Early Cancer Detection Science for the American Cancer Society in Atlanta, confirmed that Shield is the only blood test currently available for colorectal cancer screening. 

TRAGIC CANCER LOSS INSPIRES NEW YORK TECH ENTREPRENEUR TO ADDRESS ‘URGENT MEDICAL NEED’

"It compares favorably with other colorectal cancer screening tests," such as colonoscopy, CT colonography and stool tests, Smith, who is not affiliated with Guardant, told Fox News Digital.

"The test … likely will be more appealing to people who have never been screened, or not recently screened," he added.

The key advantage of the blood test is that it can be done during a routine doctor’s appointment without the need for prepping or taking an entire day off from work.

"It offers the potential to detect colorectal cancer in a person who is non-adherent with screening recommendations, asymptomatic and willing to get this test based on preference, convenience or both," Smith said.

Shield has shown "reasonable sensitivity and specificity compared to other blood/stool tests," according to Dr. Shuji Ogino, chief of the Molecular Pathological Epidemiology program at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, which is a member of Mass General Brigham in Boston.

"Compared to colonoscopy, it is simpler and less time-consuming," Ogino, who is not associated with Guardant, told Fox News Digital.

While the risks of the Shield test have not been studied in a population of regular users, they are likely to be minimal, according to ACS’ Smith. 

"However, the Shield test does not offer the same level of benefit to prevent colorectal cancer by detecting and removing precursor lesions (polyps), which is a significant benefit from regular screening with the currently recommended tests," Smith cautioned.

That downside would be offset by more unscreened people choosing to get screenings, he noted.

"The Shield blood test does have a lower degree of sensitivity than the Cologard stool test for detecting colon cancer," Stephen Grabelsky, M.D., a hematologist and medical oncologist at the Eugene M. & Christine E. Lynn Cancer Institute at Boca Raton Regional Hospital, told Fox News Digital.

The test is only intended for people with a standard risk for colon cancer, which excludes patients with a family history of colon cancer or a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, Grabelsy added. (He also was not involved in the test's development.)

The compliance rate for colorectal cancer screenings is only about 59% — well below the National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable’s goal of 80% for eligible individuals, according to Weist.

"More than one out of three eligible Americans – over 50 million people – do not complete CRC screenings, often due to the perception that other available options, such as colonoscopies or stool-based tests, are invasive, unpleasant or inconvenient," he said. 

When detected early, colon cancer has a relative survival rate of 91% — compared to just 14% if the cancer has spread to distant parts of the body. 

"Early detection is critical," Weist said. "The most effective screening test is the test that gets done."

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

The Shield test is indicated for colorectal cancer screening in individuals age 45 and older who have an average risk for the disease, he told Fox News Digital. 

The test is expected to be commercially available by this fall. 

Patients interested in the Shield test should discuss the benefits and limitations with a health care provider before making a choice, Smith recommended, and should also determine whether their insurance will cover it. 

"It is important to appreciate that a colorectal cancer screening test that is positive is not complete until the patient has had a colonoscopy," Smith noted.

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health

"Any non-colonoscopy screening test for colorectal cancer that is positive must be followed up with a colonoscopy."

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/q0FbnAX

Read More

'Loner' telltale signs, plus Alzheimer's announcements and Olympics safety concerns

RED FLAGS – Amid the FBI's assertion that Trump's would-be assassin was a "loner," mental health experts share warning signs and tips for how to help. Continue reading…

LINE OF SIGHT – "Pickleball saved my sight," claims a Florida woman, 79. She shares with Fox News Digital how her love for the sport led to an important diagnosis. Continue reading…

HIGH ACCURACY – A new Alzheimer’s blood test showed 90% accuracy in detecting the dementia at routine health care appointments. Doctors weigh in on the "surprising" results. Continue reading…

AFFORDABLE AND ACCESSIBLE – The first generic GLP-1 medication is now available – here's what that means for patients with diabetes. Continue reading…

KNOW YOUR RISK – Excess body fat in two particular areas could put you at a higher risk for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, a new study found. Continue reading…

TESTING THE WATERS – Concerns about heavy rains negatively impacting the water quality of the Seine River led to cancellations of some Olympic events. Experts share the specific risks swimmers could face. Continue reading…

FIRE HAZARD – Exposure to wildfire smoke could increase the risk of dementia, researchers have discovered. Cognitive experts break down the link between fires and brain health. Continue reading…

EXTREME EXPOSURE – Some teens are chasing higher UV indexes to maximize their tans. Here's why that could be dangerous, according to dermatologists. Continue reading…

FIT TO SERVE? – Some medical experts question whether staying in office could put Joe Biden's health at further risk. Continue reading…

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

Twitter

LinkedIn

Fox News First

Fox News Opinion

Fox News Lifestyle

Fox News Health

Fox News Autos

Fox News Entertainment (FOX411)

Fox Business

Fox Weather

Fox Sports

Tubi

Fox News Go

Fox Nation

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/61S0CzE

Read More

OneBlood issues urgent call to blood donors after cyber attack

A blood donation service that partners with more than 300 hospitals in the southeast has suffered a ransomware attack that significantly reduced its capacity, according to a news release. 

OneBlood, a nonprofit blood center, said it is working with cybersecurity specialists, along with federal, state and local law enforcement, to respond to a "ransomware event" impacting its software system. 

"OneBlood takes the security of our network extremely seriously.  Our team reacted quickly to assess our systems and began an investigation to confirm the full nature and scope of the event," said Susan Forbes, OneBlood senior vice president of corporate communications and public relations.

"Our comprehensive response efforts are ongoing and we are working diligently to restore full functionality to our systems as expeditiously as possible." 

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT DONATING BLOOD DURING RED CROSS MONTH

The nonprofit said its centers remain operational and continue to collect, test and distribute blood to hospitals, but at a significantly reduced capacity.  

"We have implemented manual processes and procedures to remain operational. Manual processes take significantly longer to perform and impacts inventory availability," said Forbes.

"In an effort to further manage the blood supply, we have asked the more than 250 hospitals we serve to activate their critical blood shortage protocols and to remain in that status for the time being." 

YOUNG GIRL SURVIVES CANCER THANKS TO LITTLE SISTER'S LIFESAVING DONATION: ‘A PERFECT MATCH’

The ransomware attack has created an urgent need for blood donations at OneBlood's operational centers, the nonprofit shared in a call to action. The group said all blood types are needed, but specifically requested O positive, O negative and platelet donations.

Blood centers across the country are also donating blood and platelets to OneBlood, and the AABB Disaster Task Force is coordinating national resources to assist with additional blood products being sent to OneBlood, according to the news release.

BLOOD CANCER AWARENESS: COMMON TYPES, SIGNS AND TREATMENT OPTIONS

"The blood supply cannot be taken for granted. The situation we are dealing with is ongoing. If you are eligible to donate, we urge you to please make an appointment to donate as soon as possible," said Forbes.

OneBlood provides safe, available and affordable blood to 355 hospitals in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia, according to its website. 

The nonprofit operates more than 90 donor centers and its fleet of 250 Big Red Bus bloodmobiles are a familiar sight at blood drives throughout the southeastern United States. 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Founded in 2012 when three independent Florida blood centers merged, OneBlood has grown to become the second-largest blood center in the United States. The nonprofit distributes more than 1 million blood products to hospitals annually. 

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/AQhjpdP

Read More

With some Olympic events postponed, Seine River water quality poses concerns

As Paris opened the 2024 Summer Olympic Games along the Seine River, it was easy for many to fall in love with the romantic waterway and forget what lies beneath.

But the steady rain this past Friday was a reminder of how the weather impacts the river’s water quality.

Organizers canceled the practice run for the upcoming triathlon on both Sunday and Monday due to concerns that the heavy rains negatively impacted the water quality, according to multiple reports.

LISTERIA INFECTION LINKED TO DELI MEATS KILLS 2, INFECTS 28 ACROSS US, CDC WARNS

Officials were still optimistic that warmer temperatures would reduce the bacteria levels so the men’s triathlon could proceed as planned on Tuesday — but the race was ultimately postponed.

"Despite the improvement in the water quality levels in the last hours, the readings at some points of the swim course are above acceptable levels," the World Triathlon said in a statement on X.

Experts from University of Florida (UF) Health, a member of the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Medical Network, discussed with Fox News Digital how the Seine River could impact athletes’ health.

IN COLORADO, PLAGUE CASE CONFIRMED IN HUMAN, HEALTH OFFICIALS SAY: ‘MUST BE TREATED PROMPTLY’

The quality of water may vary depending on the time of day and the number of infectious particles consumed, Kartikeya Cherabuddi, M.D., professor of infectious diseases and global medicine at the University of Florida, told Fox News Digital.

"Taking precautions and being aware of potential symptoms so they can be managed early is important," he said.

For the past 100 years, swimming has been illegal in the Seine River due to poor water quality — with the exception of rare competitions, according to multiple reports.

"The city of Paris has put a great deal of effort into cleaning up the Seine," Nicole Iovine, M.D., Ph.D., chief epidemiologist and chief quality officer at UF Health, told Fox News Digital.

"[As in] many old cities, both sewage and storm runoff travel in the same pipe that is destined for water treatment plants," she said.

"If there are heavy rains, the pipe capacity can be overwhelmed, and the excess can end up in the Seine."

ON THIS DAY IN HISTORY, JULY 20, 1968, FIRST SPECIAL OLYMPICS SUMMER GAMES ARE HELD IN CHICAGO

To prepare for the Olympics, the city spent $1.5 billion to build an underground storage basin, called "Austerlitz Basin," along with a renovated sewer system and upgraded treatment plants.

The goal was for the improved system to collect excess rain to prevent wastewater from flowing into the Seine, according to a recent report.

Heavy rains, however, could thwart those efforts.

About one week before the Olympic Games, Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo took a highly publicized dip on July 17 to show that the waters were safe for the triathlon and marathon events.

Later testing, however, revealed that in some areas, levels of E. coli bacteria were above Europe’s maximum safety limit, which is 900 colony-forming units per 100 milliliters.

One person swimming in the river doesn’t prove that the water is safe, experts pointed out.

"The risk of aspirating river water is much greater when engaged in a highly exertional activity like a competitive race compared to a more leisurely dip in the Seine," Iovine said.

Eau de Paris, the largest public water company in France, found that the Seine’s water quality for the week of July 17 "reached the compliance thresholds of the European directive at all four points monitored over four days," according to the city’s website.

DIVERS DISCOVER 19TH CENTURY SHIPWRECK CONTAINING HISTORICAL ARTIFACTS IN BALTIC SEA

The water is tested early each morning during the Olympics to ensure that the events can proceed as planned, officials say. 

The tests typically screen for certain types of bacteria called total coliforms, and generally do not look for other germs, like viruses and parasites, Iovine noted.

Most coliforms, which are found naturally in the environment as well as in human and animal waste, are not harmful — and the ones that can cause illness are usually present in low amounts that don’t pose a threat, he said.

High levels of coliforms, however, can be a marker of excessive fecal matter, which can make people sick, according to experts.

"If the amount of coliforms increases, that could be because significant numbers of pathogenic bacteria, like E. coli, have entered the water, making it potentially unsafe," Iovine warned.

E. coli (Escherichia coli) is a group of bacteria in the intestinal tract that helps to digest food and protect the body from harmful germs, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Some types, however, can cause illness.

People can get infected by swallowing water that is contaminated with the waste of an infected person.

Common bacterial symptoms include watery or bloody diarrhea, severe stomach cramps, and vomiting that may be associated with a fever, according to the CDC.

WATER SAFETY TIPS FROM EXPERTS FOR FAMILIES AND CAREGIVERS AS DROWNING DEATHS INCREASE

Other bacteria associated with sewage, such as Enterococcus, Salmonella and Campylobacter, can cause a similar array of infections, Iovine warned.

"I am concerned that if the level of harmful bacteria is too high, the athletes [could be] at risk for contracting gastrointestinal illness," she said.

Skin and eye infections are also possible if people have small nicks or abrasions on their skin before entering the water.

Parasites, like Giardia, amoebas and Cryptosporidium — and viruses, such as norovirus, hepatitis A and hepatitis E — may also be present in human and animal sewage, Iovine added.

Symptoms of viruses and parasites are predominantly stomach-related, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain, but can also include fevers, headaches, and respiratory or urinary issues, Cherabuddi noted.

"Symptoms may start within one to two days, but could present a week or two later," he added.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Harmful pathogens carried by rodents can also enter the river with overflow from rainwater, Iovine said.

The urine of rodents, for example, can contain bacteria called Leptospires, which can cause a bacterial disease called leptospirosis. 

That condition can cause nausea, vomiting, body aches, red eyes, fever and headache, according to Iovine.

"Since these athletes are young and healthy, I would expect them to recover from these infections if they occurred, but it could impact their ability to compete in their events if they are sick," she said.

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health

Athletes who are immunocompromised may experience more severe illness than those with healthy immune systems.

Fox News Digital reached out to the International Olympics Committee and Eau de Paris requesting comment.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/5hXvZ0x

Read More

Ozempic may help diabetes patients quit smoking, study finds

Smokers with type 2 diabetes taking Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic had fewer tobacco-related medical encounters and fewer interventions to help them quit smoking than those who received other diabetes drugs, according to a study of electronic health records published on Monday.

In the year after starting treatment, Ozempic users with a previous diagnosis of tobacco use disorder were up to 32% less likely to discuss tobacco use with a healthcare provider than those taking other diabetes medications. This was true even compared with those taking medicines in the same class, known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, researchers reported in Annals of Internal Medicine.

They were also up to 68% less likely to receive prescriptions for smoking cessation medication and up to 21% less likely to receive smoking cessation counseling.

DIABETES PATIENTS USING OZEMPIC, OTHER TREATMENTS INSTEAD OF INSULIN HAVE LOWER CANCER RISK, STUDY FINDS

The findings were drawn from electronic health record data on nearly 229,000 patients, including 6,000 recipients of Ozempic.

The researchers called for clinical trials to evaluate the potential of the drug’s active ingredient, semaglutide, for use in smoking cessation to backup the findings from this study sponsored by the U.S. National Institutes of Health.

They noted earlier reports have suggested a reduced desire to smoke in patients treated with semaglutide, possibly related to a dampening of addictive nicotine's reward effects in the brain. Novo's wildly popular weight-loss drug Wegovy has the same active ingredient.

The current study did not include data showing whether patients actually stopped or decreased tobacco use after starting on the various drugs.

While the observed reduction in tobacco disorder-related encounters might suggest reductions in tobacco use or relapses, it "could also reflect other scenarios, such as a reduced willingness to seek help to quit smoking," the researchers acknowledged.

The classes of diabetes drugs looked at in the study included insulins, metformin, DPP-4 inhibitors, SGLT-2 inhibitors, sulfonylureas, thiazolidinediones and other GLP-1's than Ozempic.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/ekwtJRy

Read More

Trump’s attempted assassin was a ‘loner,’ FBI says, as experts share telltale signs in others across America

Ever since Thomas Matthew Crooks attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump on July 13, a picture has emerged of his social behaviors and possible mental state.

Some residents of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania — the small Pittsburgh suburb where Crooks lived with his parents — have described the shooter, 20, as a "loner" when speaking to local news outlets.

An evaluation of Crooks’ phone revealed that he had previously searched for symptoms of depressive disorder, according to reports.

TRUMP ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT COULD HAVE WIDESPREAD MENTAL HEALTH IMPACT, EXPERTS SAY: ‘VICARIOUS TRAUMA’

During a press conference call with reporters on Monday, Kevin Rojak, special agent in charge at the FBI's Pittsburgh field office, described Crooks as a "loner, as far as his association or any other activities related to his mental state."

"His primary social circle appears to be limited to his immediate family, as we believe he had few friends and acquaintances throughout his life," Rojak said.

Jason Kohler, who attended the same high school as Crooks, described the shooter to Fox News as an "outcast" who was always alone and was "bullied every day."

Kohler told reporters that Crooks sat alone at lunchtime and was mocked for his clothing, which often included "hunting outfits."

TRUMP’S SURVIVAL WAS ‘MIRACULOUS’ GIVEN BULLET’S PROXIMITY TO HIS BRAIN, DOCTOR SAYS

Looking back, some classmates said, there were warning signs that Crooks could have had the capacity to plan the type of violent attack that left one man dead, wounded two people critically and injured a former president of the United States.

"The signs were there, and somebody definitely had to have known," said Vincent Taormina, another former classmate of Crooks, in a previous interview with Fox News Digital.

Jonathan Alpert, a Manhattan-based psychotherapist and author, pointed out that many loners are "absolutely harmless."

"Being a loner in itself is not at all a dangerous trait," he told Fox News Digital via email on Monday. "Withdrawing from society and extreme isolation can be indicative of depression, and that's it."

In some cases, however, people who are known to be loners can be "quite disturbed," Alpert noted. 

"Any extreme behavior or erratic shifts in mood suggest emotional instability and should not be taken lightly, especially if the person has a history of hostility directed at others or society," the expert said.

"Enter into the mix obsessions with violence, weapons or death — and you have an individual with potential to inflict harm on others."

Paranoid or delusional thinking can heighten the risk, Alpert warned, from these individuals — "especially if they think they have a special mission to carry out or if they think others are out to get them."

Dr. Judy Ho, associate professor and IRB chair at Pepperdine University in California, agreed that preferring to be alone is often just a personality trait, and not always a sign of potential danger.

"Sometimes people like to have some alone time to recharge, because being with people all the time is exhausting to them," she said. 

TRUMP SHOOTING: ‘GOD’S HAND OF PROTECTION WAS ON HIM,' SAYS REV. FRANKLIN GRAHAM, OTHERS

"This is the traditional ‘introvert’ style, where they do like being with people in small doses and tend to feel more relaxed when they have ample alone time."

Some people also tend to isolate due to depression, she noted, which often comes with signs of a down mood, loss of interest in activities they usually enjoy, irritability, low self-esteem or feelings of worthlessness, sleep and appetite changes, complaints of fatigue, and/or even suicidal ideation or self-harm attempts.

"A more dangerous ‘loner’ mentality would involve some specific elements, such as acting like they are harboring a big secret, expressing that they feel disenfranchised or lost, or having strong feelings of people ‘wronging’ them and expressing wishes that people should pay for these types of bad deeds," Ho said.

DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY MAY IMPACT YOUNG ADULTS TWICE AS MUCH AS TEENS, HARVARD SURVEY FINDS

Other telltale signs might include lacking a specific purpose or drive, desiring power but feeling like they lack it, and spending hours studying conspiracy theories or getting into hobbies that have some sense of danger or riskiness to them, according to Ho. 

Judy Gaman, CEO of Executive Medicine of Texas and a healthy living expert, reiterated the distinction.

"Everyone gets the blues from time to time, and depression can be linked to many things such as trauma or hormone fluctuations," she told Fox News Digital. 

"Transient mood changes are far different than the personality disorders that are seen in what we often term ‘loners,'" she went on. 

"The loner type personality is anti-social, often angry at the world or a specific group of people, and may have a history of being bullied or abused as a child."

If you suspect that someone you know is a loner and exhibits the warning signs shared above, there are steps you can take to help avoid escalation.

"Take note of the specific behaviors and patterns that lead you to believe he or she poses a threat," Alpert suggested. 

As part of this assessment, it’s important to avoid acting on assumptions, he added.

"All too often, people are quick to conclude, erroneously, that someone is prone to certain behaviors simply based on how they look — for example, not everyone dressed in black is potentially a school shooter," Alpert said.   

The best way to begin, according to Ho, is to share observations of some concerning behaviors without interpreting what those behaviors might mean. 

"Express that you are concerned about the person and ask what’s going on, and allow silence so they can fill the space and share their thoughts," she advised.

"Once they’ve shared, ask what you can do to help, rather than assuming what you should do, or what you might want, because it can be different than what they really want," Ho recommended.

Consider volunteering to go with the person to talk to a mental health professional or other trusted individuals if they are open to that, the doctor suggested. 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

"The stigma against mental illness is still really prevalent, so sometimes knowing they are not judged for sharing their vulnerabilities will mean everything to them," Ho added.

If you truly suspect that someone poses a danger to others, it’s best to avoid direct confrontation with the person, Alpert said.

"You don't want to set them off," the expert warned. "Instead, contact the authorities with your concerns."

Teachers, parents and health care providers should all be paying extra attention to mental health warning signs, added Gaman.

"We often don’t want to intrude or violate someone’s privacy, but by saying something when you see something concerning — whether to the person directly and/or to law enforcement — you can possibly save their lives as well as those of others," Ho said. 

"Don’t underestimate what you can do to help someone who is suffering. Just lending a helping ear is often enough for them to step back and see the big picture, and find a reason for hope and to continue on."

If Crooks’ isolation was a factor in his decision to commit the attempted assassination on July 13, that highlights the importance of social support for mental health, experts agree.

"Community is important to all people," Ho told Fox News Digital.

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health

"Everyone needs to feel like they belong to something bigger than themselves, and that they have people who care about them," she went on.

"Even if it is just a very small group of friends, it’s important for every human being to feel like they have a few trusted individuals they can rely on."

Audrey Conklin and Christina Coulter, both of Fox News Digital, contributed reporting.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/0EbRnr2

Read More

Dementia risk rises with exposure to wildfire smoke, per Alzheimer’s Association: 'Real problem'

Exposure to wildfire smoke could increase the risk of dementia, researchers have discovered.

A 10-year study of more than 1.2 million people in southern California — an area experiencing frequent wildfire activity — found that wildfire smoke can be "particularly hazardous" for brain health.

The Alzheimer’s Association announced the findings during the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in Philadelphia on Monday.

ALZHEIMER'S BLOOD TEST DETECTS DISEASE WITH 90% ACCURACY IN ROUTINE DOCTORS' APPOINTMENTS: STUDY

The study found that wildfire smoke increases dementia risk more than other types of air pollution, including emissions from motor vehicles and factories called fine particle matter (PM2.5), according to a press release from the Alzheimer's Association.

The microscopic droplets in wildfire smoke were found to have a "notably stronger" effect on dementia risk with even less exposure, the researchers found.

High levels of PM2.5 also have been linked to a higher risk of heart disease, asthma and low birth weight.

MAYO CLINIC FINDS NEW TYPE OF MEMORY LOSS THAT’S OFTEN MISTAKEN FOR ALZHEIMER’S

The study analyzed data from Californians age 60 years or older between 2009 and 2019, determining the participants’ exposure according to where they lived.

The researchers observed a 21% increase in the likelihood of dementia diagnosis for every 1 microgram increase of PM2.5 per meter.

Dr. Claire Sexton, senior director of scientific programs and outreach for the Alzheimer’s Association, told Fox News Digital that exposure to air pollution is known to be bad for brain health, as previous reports have linked PM2.5 to dementia.

Improving air quality could help to protect cognitive function and reduce dementia risk, according to Sexton. 

"Each year, approximately 44 million people are exposed to unhealthy air quality due to wildfires worldwide," she said. "Wildfires are increasing around the globe in frequency, severity and duration."

AMID CONCERNS ABOUT BIDEN’S MENTAL ACUITY, EXPERTS REVEAL HOW COGNITIVE TESTS WORK AND WHAT THEY REVEAL

This new study highlighted several reasons that wildfire smoke is more dangerous, Sexton said.

Wildfire smoke is produced at higher temperatures and contains a greater concentration of toxic chemicals compared to other forms of air pollution, she noted.

Wildfire smoke also produces a smaller diameter of PM2.5 than other sources, Sexton added.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

"With the rising global incidence of wildfires — including current wildfires in California, Oregon, Alaska and the southwestern U.S. — exposure to wildfire smoke is an increasing threat to brain health."

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health

Research shows that on "poor air quality days" in California, air pollution produced by wildfires accounts for more than 70% of total fine particulate exposure, according to Sexton.

"This is a real problem," she said. 

To lower the risk of exposure, Sexton recommends that people update their home air filtration systems and stay inside during periods of unhealthy air quality.

Researchers also suggest wearing an N95 mask outdoors when the Air Quality Index is over 100.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/gA9af64

Read More

Alzheimer’s blood test detects disease with 90% accuracy in routine doctors’ appointments: study

A simple blood test has been shown to detect Alzheimer’s disease in routine health care settings with up to 90% accuracy, according to Swedish researchers.

The findings were presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in Philadelphia on Sunday.

The test works by measuring the levels of Plasma Phospho-Tau217, a biomarker that is linked to the presence of Alzheimer’s pathology in the brain.

BLOOD TESTS FOR ALZHEIMER'S MAY BE COMING TO YOUR DOCTOR'S OFFICE: WHAT TO KNOW

It has been shown to detect the disease even before the person begins experiencing symptoms, researchers say.

"The tested blood test can detect Alzheimer’s disease with high accuracy even in real-life settings in primary care," said study author Oskar Hansson, M.D., head of the Clinical Memory Research Unit at Lund University, Sweden, in an email to Fox News Digital.

It is currently difficult for primary care physicians to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease due to a lack of adequate tools, he said. 

In the most recent study — also published in the journal JAMA — 1,213 people who were experiencing mild memory loss were evaluated by either primary care doctors or memory specialists. 

MAYO CLINIC FINDS NEW TYPE OF MEMORY LOSS THAT’S OFTEN MISTAKEN FOR ALZHEIMER’S

The patients then underwent both the blood test and cerebrospinal fluid tests, and researchers compared the results.

"Primary care doctors’ accuracy in identifying Alzheimer’s disease was 61%, while specialist physicians were correct 73% of the time," study author Sebastian Palmqvist, associate professor of neurology at Lund University, stated in a press release.

By comparison, the blood test had an accuracy of 90%.

"I was surprised by how well the blood test worked in real-life settings in primary care, where the patients are older and have more comorbidities like kidney disease, which can affect the blood test results," Hansson told Fox News Digital.

The main limitation of the research was that it was only conducted in Sweden. 

AMID CONCERNS ABOUT BIDEN’S MENTAL ACUITY, EXPERTS REVEAL HOW COGNITIVE TESTS WORK AND WHAT THEY REVEAL

"We need studies in the U.S. and other countries to better understand the generalizability of the findings," Hansson said.

Looking ahead, there is a need for clear guidelines on how doctors should use these tests in clinical practice, according to the researchers. 

"My prediction is that highly accurate blood tests will very soon be recommended for use in patients with cognitive impairment who are assessed at clinics specialized in memory disorders," Hansson said. 

This could help to reduce the need for more advanced and expensive methods, like PET scans and cerebrospinal tests.

"I think it will take one or two years before there are clinical guidelines in place for use of blood tests in primary care," Hansson also noted. 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

The researchers do not currently recommend screenings for "cognitively normal people" — as there are not any approved treatments for people with Alzheimer’s disease pathology who do not have cognitive impairment, the researcher said.

Added Hansson, "Further, we propose that the blood test should be used as an adjunct to, and not replacement for, the clinical assessments used today."

Approximately one in five women and one in 10 men develop dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health

The condition is misdiagnosed in 25% to 35% of patients who are treated at specialized clinics, previous studies have shown — and researchers believe that number is even higher for patients assessed by their primary care physicians.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/EadiTCl

Read More

Blood tests for Alzheimer's may be coming to your doctor's office: What to know

New blood tests could help doctors diagnose Alzheimer’s disease faster and more accurately, researchers reported Sunday – but some appear to work far better than others.

It’s tricky to tell if memory problems are caused by Alzheimer’s. That requires confirming one of the disease’s hallmark signs — buildup of a sticky protein called beta-amyloid — with a hard-to-get brain scan or uncomfortable spinal tap. Many patients instead are diagnosed based on symptoms and cognitive exams.

Labs have begun offering a variety of tests that can detect certain signs of Alzheimer's in blood. Scientists are excited by their potential but the tests aren't widely used yet because there's little data to guide doctors about which kind to order and when. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration hasn't formally approved any of them and there's little insurance coverage.

ALZHEIMER’S ON MOTHER’S SIDE OF THE FAMILY COULD INCREASE DISEASE RISK, STUDY FINDS

"What tests can we trust?" asked Dr. Suzanne Schindler, a neurologist at Washington University in St. Louis who’s part of a research project examining that. While some are very accurate, "other tests are not much better than a flip of a coin."

More than 6 million people in the United States and millions more around the world have Alzheimer’s, the most common form of dementia. Its telltale "biomarkers" are brain-clogging amyloid plaques and abnormal tau protein that leads to neuron-killing tangles.

New drugs, Leqembi and Kisunla, can modestly slow worsening symptoms by removing gunky amyloid from the brain. But they only work in the earliest stages of Alzheimer’s and proving patients qualify in time can be difficult. Measuring amyloid in spinal fluid is invasive. A special PET scan to spot plaques is costly and getting an appointment can take months.

Even specialists can struggle to tell if Alzheimer’s or something else is to blame for a patient’s symptoms.

"I have patients not infrequently who I am convinced have Alzheimer’s disease and I do testing and it’s negative," Schindler said.

Blood tests so far have been used mostly in carefully controlled research settings. But a new study of about 1,200 patients in Sweden shows they also can work in the real-world bustle of doctors' offices — especially primary care doctors who see far more people with memory problems than specialists but have fewer tools to evaluate them.

In the study, patients who visited either a primary care doctor or a specialist for memory complaints got an initial diagnosis using traditional exams, gave blood for testing and were sent for a confirmatory spinal tap or brain scan.

Blood testing was far more accurate, Lund University researchers reported Sunday at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference in Philadelphia. The primary care doctors' initial diagnosis was 61% accurate and the specialists' 73% — but the blood test was 91% accurate, according to the findings, which also were published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

There’s almost "a wild West" in the variety being offered, said Dr. John Hsiao of the National Institute on Aging. They measure different biomarkers, in different ways.

Doctors and researchers should only use blood tests proven to have a greater than 90% accuracy rate, said Alzheimer’s Association chief science officer Maria Carrillo.

Today's tests most likely to meet that benchmark measure what’s called p-tau217, Carrillo and Hsiao agreed. Schindler helped lead an unusual direct comparison of several kinds of blood tests, funded by the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health, that came to the same conclusion.

That type of test measures a form of tau that correlates with how much plaque buildup someone has, Schindler explained. A high level signals a strong likelihood the person has Alzheimer’s while a low level indicates that’s probably not the cause of memory loss.

Several companies are developing p-tau217 tests including ALZpath Inc., Roche, Eli Lilly and C2N Diagnostics, which supplied the version used in the Swedish study.

Only doctors can order them from labs. The Alzheimer’s Association is working on guidelines and several companies plan to seek FDA approval, which would clarify proper use.

For now, Carrillo said doctors should use blood testing only in people with memory problems, after checking the accuracy of the type they order.

Especially for primary care physicians, "it really has great potential to help them in sorting out who to give a reassuring message and who to send on to memory specialists," said Dr. Sebastian Palmqvist of Lund University, who led the Swedish study with Lund’s Dr. Oskar Hansson.

The tests aren't yet for people who don't have symptoms but worry about Alzheimer's in the family — unless it's part of enrollment in research studies, Schindler stressed.

That's partly because amyloid buildup can begin two decades before the first sign of memory problems, and so far there are no preventive steps other than basic advice to eat healthy, exercise and get enough sleep. But there are studies underway testing possible therapies for people at high risk of Alzheimer's, and some include blood testing.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/yJbfHcD

Read More

‘Pickleball saved my sight,’ says Florida woman, 79: ‘I was really worried’

Those who play pickleball are known to gain physical and cognitive benefits from the activity — but for one Florida woman, the fast-growing game also helped to save her sight.

Linda Corcoran, 79, an avid pickleball player and great-grandmother, has been playing the paddle sport three times a week for the past four or five years. 

She knew something was amiss in 2021, when the lines on the court suddenly began appearing wavy and distorted to her.

PICKLEBALL HELPS BOOST SENIORS' MENTAL HEALTH, SURVEY FINDS

"Beyond this affecting my ability to play, I was really worried about what these symptoms meant for my vision and overall eye health," Corcoran told Fox News Digital via email. 

Corcoran also began seeing floaters and wavy lines in both of her eyes – on and off the pickleball court. 

"When I texted, the letters on the screen looked tilted," she said — which she later found out was due to fluid in her retina.

Corcoran made an appointment with her eye specialist — who diagnosed her with wet age-related macular degeneration (wet AMD).

The leading cause of vision loss for people age 65 and over, AMD affects 1.5 million people in the U.S., experts say.

Symptoms of wet AMD include blurred vision, blind spots in the middle of the field of vision, difficulty distinguishing colors, and edges or lines appearing wavy, according to Corcoran’s ophthalmologist, Dr. Matthew Cunningham of the Florida Retina Institute.

PICKLEBALL INJURIES COULD COST UP TO $500 MILLION THIS YEAR

"In Linda’s case, lines on the pickleball court were an effective indicator of her vision, as she saw something that was supposed to be straight appearing wavy," he told Fox News Digital. 

"For many who play pickleball or other sports, noticing the court looking wavy is an important sign to come in right away and get your eyes checked."

Other warning signs can include noticing that window blinds appear crooked when they're not, or that something that’s supposed to be straight, like a flagpole, appears wavy, Cunningham said.

Having trouble reading in low light can also be a symptom of wet AMD.

The condition may also affect the ability to see or recognize faces or objects, read and write, or drive, the doctor added.

Early detection is key to preventing vision loss due to wet AMD, according to Cunningham. 

MEET THE AMERICAN WHO FOUNDED PICKLEBALL, THE FASTEST GROWING SPORT IN THE NATION

"In the early stages, there may be no symptoms, which is why it’s important for everyone to visit their eye doctor at least once a year for an eye exam, even if they don’t notice anything wrong," he advised.

If left untreated, wet AMD can cause rapid and severe vision loss, Cunningham warned.

There are treatments available to help improve and maintain vision for people with wet AMD. 

"Wet AMD is most often treated with medicine injected into the eye, which can help improve and maintain your vision," said Cunningham.

"While treatment has traditionally required intravitreal injections as often as every month, newer treatments have been found to be effective for up to 12 to 16 weeks between injections."

After a different medication was ineffective, Cunningham suggested that Corcoran try a treatment called Vabysmo.

The prescription medication — made by Genentech, a member of the Roche Group in Switzerland — is administered in both eyes every 10 weeks, designed to dry up damaging fluid in the back of the eye to help preserve vision.

Vabysmo is the first and only FDA-approved treatment designed to block two causes of wet AMD, the company told Fox News Digital via email.

ASK A DOCTOR: ‘IS IT SAFE TO SWIM UNDERWATER WITH MY EYES OPEN?’

"When the doctor first told me I needed to receive injections, I was overwhelmed and nervous," Corcoran said. 

"I dreaded the shots, but now I know that my consistency with the treatment allows me to preserve my vision to help me continue doing the things that I love, like pickleball."

Today, a year after starting Vabysmo, Corcoran’s vision has significantly improved.

"It has successfully kept the fluid out of her retina and has had a positive effect on her vision," said Cunningham.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Corcoran added, "It’s overwhelming to feel like your favorite hobbies and ability to socialize could be in jeopardy when you start to see changes in your vision, so I feel really lucky to have found a treatment that has worked so well for me."

Some of the common side effects of Vabysmo include cataract and blood on the white of the eye (conjunctival hemorrhage), according to a statement from the company provided to Fox News Digital.

For all adults, Cunningham recommends getting annual, comprehensive eye exams to detect potential disease early — particularly for older adults or those who have been diagnosed with conditions like diabetes or hypertension, which can impact eye health and cause vision loss. 

"You don’t need to wait to see an eye doctor, as we have a number of tests that can identify early signs of diseases before symptoms appear," he added.

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health

More than half of pickleball players in the U.S. are age 55 or older, with almost a third (32%) of them over the age of 65.

Fox News Digital reached out to Genentech, maker of Vabysmo, for comment.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/NzlD14Y

Read More

Diabetes patients now have access to first generic GLP-1 medication: ‘More accessible and affordable’

Ozempic, Wegovy and other GLP-1 medications have gained widespread popularity for weight loss and diabetes control in recent years — but the spike in demand has made it difficult for some people to get the drugs.

To help eliminate supply chain snafus, the first-ever generic GLP-1 — a duplicate of Victoza — launched on June 25.

Manufactured by Novo Nordisk and distributed and sold by Israel-based Teva Pharmaceuticals, Victoza is an injectable medication intended to treat type 2 diabetes. It has also been shown to promote weight loss in certain patients, according to Teva.

OZEMPIC AND WEGOVY COULD DOUBLE AS KIDNEY DISEASE TREATMENT, STUDY SUGGESTS

While Ozempic and Wegovy contain semaglutide and Mounjaro has tirzepatide, Victoza has liraglutide as its active ingredient.

"By launching an authorized generic for Victoza (liraglutide injection 1.8mg), we are providing patients with type 2 diabetes another option for this important treatment," said Ernie Richardsen, SVP, head of U.S. commercial generics at Teva, in a press release from the company.

The new authorized generic is the exact same medication as brand-name Victoza, but without the brand name on the label and sold at a lower price point, explained Alyssa Billingsley, PharmD, the senior director of Pharmacy Content at GoodRx in St. Louis, Missouri.

OZEMPIC, WEGOVY MAY BE LINKED TO STOMACH PARALYSIS AND OTHER DIGESTIVE ISSUES IN LARGE-SCALE STUDY

Just as Wegovy is a higher-dose version of Ozempic to treat obesity, there is a higher-dose version of Victoza — sold under the brand name Saxenda — but a generic version is not yet available.

"This is a positive step forward to making GLP-1 agonist medications more accessible and affordable," Billingsley told Fox News Digital via email. 

This class of drugs has a growing list of beneficial applications beyond just treating type 2 diabetes, Billingsley noted, but their cost can be a barrier for many people to access them.

"In general, authorized generics are usually priced at a discount, potentially making them a more affordable option for some people," she said. 

AMID ADHD DRUG SHORTAGE, FDA APPROVES GENERIC VERSION OF MEDICATION: 'OPPORTUNE TIME'

"However, some insurers may still prefer brand-name Victoza, even with a lower-cost authorized generic available."

Patients should check with their insurance provider to confirm which options are covered and what they can expect to pay, Billingsley advised.

Dr. Brett Osborn, a Florida neurologist and longevity expert, agreed that the availability of the first generic GLP-1 is "great news."

The generic’s lower price point is particularly beneficial for people who have chronic conditions like diabetes, Osborn noted — "where long-term medication use is necessary to prevent downrange effects like vascular disease, strokes and heart attacks, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, and obesity, the latter of which is also a ‘gateway disease,’" he said. 

There are some differences between the generic version of Victoza and Ozempic and other GLP-1 agonists, doctors noted.

The new drug’s active ingredient is liraglutide instead of Ozempic’s semaglutide — and it is approved for use in both adults and children age 10 and older who have diabetes.

Semaglutides are not yet approved for children.

There are also dosing differences — while semaglutides like Ozempic are given once each week, liraglutide medications require daily dosing because they have a shorter half-life, the doctor said.

"Each medication has pros and cons," Osborn said. "At base level, however, the molecules are similar and subserve identical bodily functions — appetite suppression and the promotion of insulin secretion from the pancreas."

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health

The most common side effects of liraglutides include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, indigestion and constipation, according to the company’s release. Other, more serious side effects are possible.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Patients who experience adverse or lingering side effects should see a health care provider.

Fox News Digital reached out to Teva Pharmaceuticals and Novo Nordisk for comment.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/ZlSHeXv

Read More

Stay fresh in the heat of summer with 5 hygiene trends from dermatologists

Heading into the hottest part of summer, many people are looking for ways to stay fresh and clean amid high temperatures. 

When preparing for summer activities, following some simple personal hygiene tips can make a big difference, according to dermatologists.

From skin and hair maintenance to sleep routines and fragrances, below are some recommendations from experts for ensuring a fresh summer.

5 TIPS FOR RAMPING UP YOUR SKIN CARE ROUTINE THIS SPRING FROM A BEAUTY EXPERT

Olga Skydan, a New York-based certified cosmetologist and dermatologist who works with the face yoga app Luvly, shared with Fox News Digital some of her main "hygiene hacks" for feeling revived in the hottest months of the year. 

Check these out …

Swapping cotton pillowcases for a silk material could help with beauty sleep in more ways than one, according to experts. 

Over time, this habit can "keep the skin looking young and the hair lustrous and silky," Skydan shared in an email message.

SUNBURN SOS: 7 TIPS TO SOOTHE YOUR SUN-DAMAGED SKIN, ACCORDING TO A WELLNESS EXPERT

"Because of its hypoallergenic features, the silk pillowcase reduces skin creases, hair tangling and the emergence of facial rashes after sleep," she said.

Dr. Fayne Frey, a dermatologist in West Nyack, New York, told Fox News Digital that although silk pillowcases could be helpful, potentially, for the skin, more research is needed to confirm this effect.

SKIN CARE SECRETS: DERMATOLOGIST REVEALS BEST WAYS TO KEEP SKIN LOOKING AGELESS

"There is no evidence that sleeping on a silk pillowcase minimizes acne breakouts, minimizes the formation of facial wrinkles or prevents split ends or chemical exposure," she said via email.

"Don't expect healthier skin or hair from making such a purchase."

To help extend the longevity of perfume or cologne, Skydan suggested applying petroleum jelly to the skin prior to application. 

"Apply a small amount of [petroleum jelly] behind your ears, wrists and neck, then spritz perfume over them," she said. 

"Viola! Your perfume will linger both in the morning and evening."

To decrease surface bacteria and minimize body odor, Frey suggested washing the underarms and feet with benzoyl peroxide.

She did advise users to be careful when applying the product, however, as it can sometimes cause irritation and redness and could remove color from clothes.

To help minimize side effects, Skydan also recommended checking the usage instructions on the benzoyl peroxide packaging.

For those who can't tolerate the product, a mild cleanser is a good alternative, Frey said.

Using antiperspirant wipes could help maintain dryness for those who tend to sweat excessively, Skydan recommended.

For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews/lifestyle

Antiperspirant protects against sweat and odor, while a typical deodorant only prevents odor, according to Dove. 

Antiperspirant wipes should be used at night once a week to "keep you dry for up to seven days," Skydan said.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

She added, "If you’re a heavy sweater, antiperspirant wipes should be in your arsenal."

"Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate" seems to be a common tip given by dermatologists and skin experts. 

"Regular exfoliation keeps your skin healthy, smooth and fresh by removing dead skin cells and stimulating new cell growth," Skydan told Fox News Digital.

Frey, however, only recommends exfoliating for the purpose of removing dead cells, dirt and oil — and says to do so with caution, noting that it can be difficult to measure the positive effects.

"Measuring cell turnover is a very difficult, time-consuming and expensive metric to accurately measure," she said. 

"If you have healthy skin, forget the exfoliants and scrubs."

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/8Z47Awk

Read More

Biden's health, senior longevity, travel sleep tips and more wellness highlights of the week

Fox News Digital publishes an array of health pieces all week long to keep you in the know on wellness topics, cancer risk factors, nutrition tips, mental health trends and much more — plus, personal stories of people overcoming surprising obstacles.

As you enjoy the remainder of your weekend and look ahead to the coming week, check out these eight top stories in Health.

These are just a few of what's new. 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

There are many more to see at http://www.foxnews/health. 

After President Joe Biden's Oval Office address — during which he stated his intention to remain in office until the end of his term — doctors revealed the potential health risks of staying on the job. Click here to get the story.

Before Biden, these five past presidents faced their own health issues amid re-election. Woodrow Wilson, FDR, Teddy Roosevelt and other presidents suffered medical complications. Click here to get the story.

It’s common for people to experience sleep struggles while away from home, experts say — but there are ways to improve your rest while on the road. Experts shared seven tips for sleeping well away from home. Click here to get the story.

Two people have died so far and 28 have reported illness due to a listeria outbreak in the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) alerted on Friday. A doctor shared key prevention tips. Click here to get the story.

From sleeping to socializing, there are certain behaviors and habits that can help seniors age with purpose and vitality. Two gerontologists shared 11 tips for thriving in the golden years. Click here to get the story.

Pop star Taylor Swift has helped fans achieve a more positive outlook overall on diet culture, disordered eating and body image, according to a new study from the University of Vermont. Psychologists weighed in. Click here to get the story.

A new study revealed that hot and cold weather impact seniors' attendance at doctors' appointments; experts shared four tips to ensure that aging patients get the health care they need. Click here to get the story.

It can be a startling and somewhat disgusting occurrence — but is swallowing a bug dangerous, or just a nuisance? A doctor gave important answers. Click here to get the story.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/Y6nZomp

Read More

Measles cases surge to triple last year's — with 5 months to go

The United States' rate of measles infections in 2024 is more than triple that of 2023, despite almost half the year still remaining.

There have been 188 reported cases of measles in the U.S. this year, according to statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated on Thursday. 

It's a significant increase from last year, when only 58 cases were reported nationwide.

MEASLES BREAKS OUT AT MASSIVE NYC MIGRANT SHELTER

Approximately 65% of this year's cases are associated with outbreaks, which the CDC defines as three or more related cases. There have been 13 outbreaks in the U.S. in 2024, compared to 4 outbreaks in 2023 that made up 48% of national cases.  

About half of cases this year required hospitalization for the purposes of isolation or management of complications.

According to the CDC, 85% of infected individuals this year were "unvaccinated or unknown," while 10% had received one Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccination and 5% had received two doses. 

TRAVELER INFECTED WITH CONFIRMED CASE OF MEASLES AT SEATTLE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AS CASES IN US INCREASE

Medical professionals say the risk of contracting measles is extremely low after getting vaccinated.

Measles is a highly contagious and serious airborne disease that can lead to severe complications and even death, especially in children. It is characterized by a fever as high as 105°F and malaise, cough, coryza and conjunctivitis followed by spots and a rash, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Despite the drastic increase in the rate of infection, it comes nowhere near 2019, when almost 1,300 cases of measles were reported across the United States in a single twelve-month period.

Fox News Digital's Sarah Rumpf-Whitten and Michael Dorgan contributed to this report.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/HnKcUl2

Read More

Why higher UV index numbers are more dangerous during sun exposure

Tracking the UV has become a trend among some young adults — namely members of Gen Z, who are looking for optimal sun exposure.

The UV index is a daily forecast that measures the intensity of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.

The numbers range from 1, the lowest exposure, to 11+, which indicates extreme sun exposure.

TANNING PILLS CAN POSE SERIOUS DANGERS, DERMATOLOGISTS WARN: ‘CONSUMERS SHOULD BE AWARE’ 

Many young adults keep track of the UV through weather apps on their smartphones, in hopes that a high number will lead to a better tan — but some health experts are warning of the potential dangers.

Tanning at higher UV levels is more likely to cause damage that can lead to skin cancer, according to Eric D. Whitman, M.D., medical director of Atlantic Health System's oncology service line in New Jersey.

"While some effects might be seen immediately, such as dark spots and marks, cancer may not become apparent for decades," he told Fox News Digital.

DOES SUNSCREEN CAUSE SKIN CANCER? DOCTORS DEBUNK CLAIMS GONE WILD ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Exposure to higher UV levels can result in a faster and deeper tan, but this comes at a "significant trade-off of an increased risk of skin cancer," Whitman warned.

"So, it is important to take precautions when planning to spend time outdoors," he added.

Dr. Brendan Camp, a Manhattan-based board-certified dermatologist, also shared with Fox News Digital that there is "no such thing as a safe tan."

Tanning represents the skin’s response to the damaging insult of UV radiation, the doctor noted.

SKIN CANCER CHECKS AND SUNSCREEN: WHY THESE (STILL) MATTER VERY MUCH FOR GOOD HEALTH

"The skin increases pigment or melanin production as a way to protect cellular components, namely DNA, from the effects of UV radiation," Camp said.

Spending time outdoors when the UV index is high increases the risk of sunburn and sun damage, which can later develop into fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots or skin cancer, according to the dermatologist.

For safe sun exposure, experts recommend using sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or after swimming and sweating.

Whitman and Camp also suggested wearing protective clothing, using an SPF lip balm, seeking shade and avoiding peak sun hours.

"Especially during summertime, it’s important to pay closer attention to kids to ensure they are properly protected against the sun," Whitman advised.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Some degree of sun exposure can be healthy due to the vitamin D benefits, he added, but only if limited to brief periods during non-peak hours.

While some may think they look healthier with a tan than without one, Whitman said it's important to dispel this misconception.

"Prolonged unprotected sun exposure can potentially increase the risk of skin cancer," he reiterated.

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health

Skin cancer can only be diagnosed through regular skin examinations by a health care professional, Whitman noted.

When self-examining the skin, Whitman recommends looking for new or changing spots.

"But these [exams] should never replace a visit to the doctor," he said. 

"Any irregularities should be promptly evaluated by a health care professional to rule out potential risks or concerns."

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/ZBKetHo

Read More

Ask a doctor: ‘I swallowed a bug — now what should I do?'

Most people have experienced that moment of discomfort when they realize a bug has wound up where it shouldn't be — in their windpipe.

That includes Taylor Swift, who on more than one occasion has accidentally swallowed a bug while performing on stage in front of thousands of people.

It can be a startling and somewhat disgusting occurrence — but is this dangerous, or just a nuisance?

LOCAL DENGUE FEVER CASES CONFIRMED IN FLORIDA KEYS, SPREAD BY MOSQUITO BITES

Dr. Raj Dasgupta, a quadruple board-certified physician in California, shared with Fox News Digital the true impacts of accidentally swallowing a bug, and the best thing to do if it happens.

"Swallowing a bug can often happen accidentally when you’re eating or drinking outside, or if a bug flies into your mouth," Dasgupta, who serves as chief medical advisor for Fortune Recommends, told Fox News Digital via email.

"It can also happen if you’re talking or laughing outdoors. Sometimes it might even happen indoors if bugs are in your food or drink and you don't realize it."

ASK A DOCTOR: ‘HOW CAN I PREVENT SCARRING FROM BUG BITES AND POISON IVY?’

Swallowing a bug is usually not dangerous, Dasgupta noted. 

"The stomach's digestive acids usually break down the bug, and it is passed out of the body without causing harm," he said.

If the bug carries harmful bacteria or parasites, however, it could cause gastrointestinal issues or allergic reactions, according to the doctor.

The type of bug can make a difference, he said.

"Bugs like beetles or ants are less of a concern, but bugs that are known to spread diseases — such as mosquitoes — might be riskier."

If you happen to swallow a bug, drinking some water can help wash it down, Dasgupta said. 

"If you start feeling sick, like abdominal pain, vomiting or nausea, keep an eye on your symptoms," the doctor said.

If you have severe stomach pain, ongoing vomiting, trouble breathing, or swelling, rash or itching, Dasgupta said to see a doctor. 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

"If you know the bug could have diseases or if you have health conditions that might complicate things, it’s a good idea to get checked out to be safe," he added.

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health

Some bugs — including grasshoppers, beetles, termites, mealworms and even stink bugs — are actually considered edible in certain countries, and are prepared and eaten as part of meals, according to WebMD’s website.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/gKxFId0

Read More

Joe Biden's health: Leadership ability questions mount as Oval Office speech gave no reason for exiting race

During a live address on Wednesday night, President Joe Biden spoke of his decision to exit the 2024 race, endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for the Democratic nomination, and announced his intent to stay in office for the rest of his term, which is 178 days at this point.

He did not, however, mention his health status or his recent COVID battle.

Dr. Kevin O’Connor, Biden’s personal physician, told reporters on Thursday that Biden’s health and mental cognition were both "excellent," yet some experts have been expressing concerns that remaining in office could take a physical and mental toll on the president.

DOCTORS REACT AFTER BIDEN'S LIVE ADDRESS TO THE NATION: A CONCERNING 'LACK OF EMOTION'

Here's what some doctors are saying.

Health experts said the high-pressure nature of the presidency could pose "significant health risks" for Biden, who has recently displayed signs of cognitive challenges.

"I am definitely concerned about the stress, and am worried he could be depressed while apparently continuing to fail cognitively," Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and a Fox News medical contributor, told Fox News Digital on Thursday.

He has not treated Biden. 

He also said, "I am furious that the White House is in denial mode and is not giving us any details, and that the White House doctor is not coming forward," adding that he "feels compassion" for the president.

BIDEN HEALTH CONCERNS PERSIST AS HE MAKES FIRST APPEARANCE AFTER ENDING CAMPAIGN

Dr. Brett Osborn, a Florida neurosurgeon and longevity expert, reiterated that the "immense, demanding and relentless" stress of the presidency can significantly impact physical and cognitive health.

"For President Biden, who has a history of cognitive issues, the toll of such stress is particularly concerning," he told Fox News Digital, expressing his professional opinion. Osborn has not examined or treated the president. 

Stress can worsen cognitive issues by causing a spike in cortisol, the primary stress hormone, Osborn said.

"Prolonged exposure to high cortisol levels can accelerate the deterioration of brain regions, such as the frontal and temporal lobes, which are crucial for cognitive functions like memory, decision-making and impulse control," he said.

"This suggests that the demanding nature of the presidency could further accelerate any existing cognitive decline in President Biden, potentially diminishing his ability to fulfill the complex and high-stakes responsibilities of his office."

AFTER BIDEN DROPS OUT OF RACE, DOCTORS REVEAL WHY THE DECISION MAY HAVE BEEN BEST FOR HIS HEALTH

Dr. Earnest Lee Murray, a board-certified neurologist at Jackson-Madison County General Hospital in Jackson, Tennessee, also surmised that in the presence of any type of dementia, it may be more difficult to process stressors and handle stressful situations, which can lead to worsening cognitive abilities. 

"In the long run, this can affect overall physical health," Murray told Fox News Digital.

Even with cognitively healthy presidents, Murray said, the high-pressure job has been known to have physical ramifications. (Murray and other doctors referenced here have not treated Biden.)

"If you look through presidential history, [you can] compare pictures of presidents at the beginning of their term to pictures of them at the end of their term," he said. 

"It's obvious that the aging process has likely occurred at a faster rate than the normal population due to the immense pressure and stress the presidency brings on a daily basis," he also said. 

"This would be accentuated in someone with cognitive limitations."

Although continued public scrutiny could also lead to increased stress, the fact that Biden has bowed out of the presidential race means that a significant stressor in his life has been eliminated, according to Jonathan Alpert, a psychotherapist and author based in New York City.

AFTER BIDEN’S 'TERRIBLE' DEBATE, HEALTH EXPERTS WARN OF DENIAL DANGERS, CALL FOR INVESTIGATION OF SYMPTOMS

"Biden might actually feel a bit of relief now that he has stopped running for president," he told Fox News Digital.

"The intense pressure and stress from constant attacks by the opposing side and scrutiny from within his own party will be lessened significantly, and he will likely be better able to focus on his role and responsibilities," Alpert added.

Doctors who shared professional opinions with Fox News Digital agreed that in their view, Biden should receive ongoing medical care and monitoring.

"Given the noticeable decline in the president's health, my hope would be that he is closely monitored by his physician and that the team brings in any experts necessary to properly evaluate any new issues that might arise in coming months," Alpert said.  

"President Biden should be given full treatment and support that's honest and transparent, as the remainder of his term plays out."

Neurologist Murray said that a patient of his with a certain degree of dementia "needs fairly consistent supervision."

He added, "I would not recommend making large financial decisions or higher-level executive decisions without advice from family members who are looking out for the best interests of the patient." 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

It is essential that the president receives appropriate medical care and stress management for the remainder of his term, Osborn said.

"While President Biden's commitment to serving his country is commendable, the potential health risks associated with continuing in such a high-pressure role cannot be ignored," the neurosurgeon said.

It is crucial for Biden to prioritize health and well-being, according to Osborn, even if it means stepping back from demanding roles. 

Healthy lifestyle behaviors — such as daily exercise, stress management, and proper nutrition and supplements — are also important, he advised, as well as a "robust support system of professionals, including a neurologist who specializes in Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease and a physical therapist."

"These are crucial steps in maintaining his health and, by extension, the effective governance of the nation, which he otherwise places at extreme risk," Osborn added.

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health

In response to earlier outreach from Fox News Digital, the White House press office said that "health was not a factor" in the president's decision to withdraw from the 2024 race. 

"He looks forward to finishing his term and delivering more historic results for the American people," the White House said in its statement.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/dGCSiIO

Read More

Doctors react after Biden’s live address to the nation: A concerning ‘lack of emotion’

After President Joe Biden’s address to the nation Wednesday night, multiple doctors shared their opinions with Fox News Digital about his perceived health status based on his live speech.

Seated in the Oval Office, the president spoke relatively briefly about his withdrawal from the 2024 race and his commitment to continuing to serve the country for the next few months. 

He did not mention his recent COVID-19 infection, ongoing concerns about his cognitive health, or the recent assassination attempt on the life of former President Donald Trump.

AFTER BIDEN DROPS OUT OF RACE, DOCTORS REVEAL WHY THE DECISION MAY HAVE BEEN BEST FOR HIS HEALTH

Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and a Fox News medical contributor — who has never treated the president — noted that Biden seemed to be reading from a teleprompter on Wednesday night, as he often does, making it difficult for those watching to gauge his medical fitness.

Although Biden stumbled over his words a few times, Siegel was more concerned about the president’s apparent "lack of emotion."

"It is a very emotional time for him and he isn't showing it," the doctor told Fox News Digital after the speech. "He seems to lack conviction."

JOE BIDEN WITH COVID AT AGE 81: WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT THE RISK THE VIRUS POSES TO OLDER ADULTS

Siegel expressed concern that Biden "could be depressed and shocked by the current reality."

"I feel compassion for him," Siegel went on. "How can he quote from the Declaration [of Independence] without much conviction? I feel bad for him and for us."

Dr. Robert Lufkin, a California-based physician and medical school professor at UCLA and USC, also weighed in on Biden.

Lufkin noted that he has never examined Biden, but offered his observations based on Wednesday’s speech and recent media events.

BIDEN HEALTH CONCERNS PERSIST AS HE MAKES FIRST APPEARANCE AFTER ENDING CAMPAIGN

In previous appearances, Biden has shown signs of "cognitive deterioration," the doctor told Fox News Digital.

"The findings in his previous presentations could have a variety of causes, including sleep deprivation, sedation, metabolic abnormalities or even neurodegenerative diseases."

Tonight’s short presentation appeared to be read from a teleprompter, Lufkin agreed — "which is less demanding than the more spontaneous Q&A debate format of some of his previous events."

In previous appearances, such as the June 27 debate, Biden has shown "confused rambling, sudden loss of train of thought in the middle of a sentence, halting speech, and the repeated use of the word ‘anyway’ when lost in a sentence," Lufkin noted.

"Tonight, we did not see these in his presentation," he said. "His delivery was fairly uniform without interruptions."

The fact that these findings were less apparent tonight could be due to the speech format of the presentation and use of a teleprompter, according to Lufkin.

"That format is much less challenging and less likely to uncover pathology than a more rigorous Q&A exchange or debate format," he went on.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

He said he hoped that "continued interactions with Mr. Biden in various presentation formats will allow us to understand his situation in more detail."

Dr. Earnest Lee Murray, a board-certified neurologist at Jackson-Madison County General Hospital in Jackson, Tennessee, said the speech from the Oval Office was "clearly better" for Biden than the debate, but also noted that the president struggled at times with reading the teleprompter. 

Murray has not treated or examined Biden.

"Reading simple passages do become difficult in patients with dementia," he told Fox News Digital, expressing a professional opinion in general about such cases. 

"Patients with a dementing process have significant difficulties with multitasking," said Murray, again speaking generally.

"President Biden seemed more rested and relaxed tonight," Murray said. 

"I suspect the stress of trying to run for office and be president was leading to even worse daily cognitive performance," he also said. 

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health

In response to earlier outreach from Fox News Digital, the White House press office stated that "health was not a factor" in the president's decision to withdraw from the 2024 race. 

"He looks forward to finishing his term and delivering more historic results for the American people," the White House said in its statement. 

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/sMOGgbX

Read More