Shopping for a better pharmacy? Have you checked your mailbox?

If you take a regular prescription, comparison shopping for the right pharmacy can be important to your health. One option you may be unaware of puts quality medication and lower costs as close to home as your mailbox. Read More

Weight loss requires a multifaceted approach

Whenever someone loses a lot of weight, we often want to know, "What's your secret?" But anyone who's been able to shed a lot of pounds will likely tell you that there is no one secret to losing weight. Read More

Conquer childhood obesity with tips for healthy family living

Today, health professionals encourage parents of even very young children to actively confront the childhood obesity epidemic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention find that obesity rates for children ages 2 to 5 have more than doubled over the past 30 years, and The White House Task Force on Obesity reports that more than half of obese children became obese by their second birthday. Read More

Home improvement for your health

When considering home improvements, people tend to choose projects that will improve the value of their home. While this is important for a healthy bottom line, investing in the health of those living inside the home also is a value-added improvement. Having the right fitness equipment and resources at home can turn the best intentions to work up a sweat into a successfully completed workout. Read More

Ten risk factors contributing to strokes

A recent study suggests that 90 percent of strokes are the result of 10 risk factors. Conducted by the Population Health Research Institute at McMaster University in Ontario Canada, this study found that those individuals demonstrating one or more risk factors, ranging from hypertension and stress to abdominal obesity and diabetes, are at a greater risk of experiencing a stroke than those who do not. Read More

Get biking to help stop diabetes

Biking is a very popular form of exercise and transportation for Americans. Cities continuously update and add trails, and families look for a way to cut back on gas prices, while also spending time together. Read More

How to keep your pet healthy during any season

Americans love pets - to the tune of 62 percent of all households with at least one pet in residence. Ask any pet owner about the benefits of having a dog or cat. Many describe their pet as part of the family. A professional offers tips to improve your pet's health and quality of life. Read More

Putting the spotlight on rare diseases

For people with a rare and serious disease, the journey to getting an accurate diagnosis and confirming a proper treatment regimen can be arduous. Rare diseases, including some cancers, can be difficult to diagnose because symptoms are often misleading, misunderstood or misinterpreted. As a result, it can sometimes take years for patients to reach a correct diagnosis and begin the path to proper care. Read More

How to protect your heart and increase your energy levels

One of the secrets to enjoying life while aging is to take care of your heart. Heart health is important for Americans to discuss with their doctors, as heart disease is the No. 1 killer of both men and women in the United States. In addition to following a good diet and exercise program, taking an antioxidant supplement like coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is also a good practice to help maintain a healthy heart. Read More

Prenatal surgery promises brighter future for babies with spina bifida

For expectant parents, the 18-week ultrasound marks an exciting milestone. For most, it is the first time they get to see their child, they can learn the sex of the baby and the doctor makes sure development is progressing normally. Mike and Katherine Mulligan of Cincinnati, Ohio, went for their first ultrasound in September 2000, and like most parents-to-be, expected to hear only good news. Instead, their dreams were dashed when they learned their unborn baby had spina bifida. But there was hope. Read More

Resolved to quit smoking? Tips for saving on smoking cessation products

Although smoking is often touted as an expensive habit, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) to aid in quitting smoking can seem like an expensive purchase as well. The reluctance to spend money on smoking cessation products leads many smokers to try to do it "cold turkey" - the most popular method for quitting smoking, but also one that frequently leads to relapse. However, the use of NRT products to quit smoking can almost triple a smoker's chances of success. Read More

Surprising facts you should know about hearing loss

When it comes to our health, many Americans have two realities: what we know and what we think we know. When what we think we know is less than accurate, it can be as harmful to our health as the things we don't know at all. Perceptions about hearing loss are a good example of this phenomenon. Read More

Ways you can make a difference in the lives of domestic abuse victims

Everyone deserves to share a loving home with their family, but for many women and children, home is not the safest place to be. The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reports that one in four women will experience domestic violence, and nearly 1.3 million women are victims of domestic abuse each year. In addition, more than 41 percent of our nation's homeless population is comprised of women and families. It's a difficult topic to discuss, and that makes many people hesitant to have a conversation about it. However, you can take action to help victims of domestic abuse and homelessness, and make a real difference in their lives. Here are a few ideas of how you can help. Read More

Fighting the five most common foot woes

From eating healthier foods to getting an adequate amount of sleep and exercise, we're a very health-aware society. So why is it that many Americans routinely overlook one of the cornerstones of good health? Here are the five most common types of foot problems and their causes. Read More

Your body naturally produces HGH - what are the benefits?

Human growth hormone - HGH for short - might have a negative, or at least unnatural connotation to most. When you hear HGH in the news, it's most often talked about as injections, in many cases used to boost athletic performance. But did you know that HGH is actually a hormone the body produces naturally? Read More

Nationwide diabetes education events create awareness, promote healthy living

Whether you are at risk for, have been recently diagnosed or are living with diabetes, it is essential to make sure you have the information necessary to manage your disease. It can also be overwhelming caring for someone with diabetes. Read More

You can help provide comfort to hospitalized children and families

Each year in the United States, millions of American children are hospitalized and must face the challenges of overcoming illness while staying in unfamiliar hospital environments. The physical and emotional toll can be extensive for children whose illnesses require a long hospitalization, as well as for their families whose only wish is for their child to be healthy. You can bring comfort to these families during difficult times. Here are some ideas for how you can make a difference. Read More

Healthy children's options are now appearing on restaurant menus

Today's youth might be the first generation of American children to be less healthy than their parents, with childhood obesity more than tripling in the past 30 years. What's encouraging, however, is that this is a time of increased national focus on healthy eating - and it is going to take all stakeholders to make a true and sustained difference. With physical activity initiatives popping up in communities across the country and recently announced new U.S. Department of Agriculture guidelines on school lunches, there are more opportunities for children to thrive. Read More

Beware of the outdoors this summer

Heading out for an afternoon in the park and a good book? Few things beat whiling away the warm summer hours immersed in a spine-tingling mystery or engrossed in a heart-warming romance. And while enjoying the latest best-seller curled up in the sun like a sleeping cat is a great way to help your body relax and unwind from all of life's stresses, you should still be aware of the dangerous health factors. Read More

Save money and help the environment by checking on your water quality

Nearly 90 percent of American homes have hard water - water containing high levels of calcium and magnesium, according to The U.S. Geological Survey. If your shampoo and soap don't lather up like they should, if you see scaling on your pipes and showerheads or if you have nasty brown rings in your sinks and toilets, your water is probably hard. To know exactly how hard, and what to do about it, you should have your water diagnosed by a water quality professional. Read More

Simple cleaning solutions: medicine cabinet makeover

Medicine cabinets are one of the most overlooked areas in the bathroom. People often stock them and forget to ever update products, especially as time goes on. As you age, it's important to reassess the types of products to keep on hand for daily comfort, minor health issues or in the event of an emergency. Read More

Exercise for healthy aging

When sedentary seniors experience a decline in health - stiff joints, achy limbs, fatigue, even chronic illness - they often mistake the need for more rest when the real prescription is exercise. Read More

Why surgical technology is a growing career in health care

Today's health care industry offers a wider variety of positions than ever before. This is in part due to the expanding health care needs of about 78 million aging baby boomers. Surgical technology can be a rewarding career choice for those looking to enter the health care arena. Here's what you need to know. Read More

Early warm temps bring early allergy symptoms

Spring-like temperatures arrived early this year, and with them came early allergy symptoms for many: itchy throats and eyes, stuffy noses, sneezing, teary eyes and more. These developments come on the heels of the fourth warmest winter since record keeping began, according to the U.S. National Climatic Data Center. Read More

Spring cleaning plans? Tips from the pros help you get the best clean

Warm weather has arrived and Americans are planning to shake out the rugs and wash the windows for the unofficial tradition of spring cleaning ... or are they? Read More

An apple a day keeps the dentist away

While tooth decay remains one of the most common health problems in children, it is also the most preventable, experts say. Here are some tips on what children and parents can do to protect and strengthen their smiles for years to come Read More

Tips to keep feet healthy and in-step with summer fun

In summer, your feet may be exposed to risks that don't occur in winter. Here's some expert advice on how to keep feet health this summer. Read More

Four tips to help prepare for pregnancy from mom expert Rosie Pope

Once you and your partner have made the big decision to start expanding your family, whether in the next few months or years, thinking about how to prepare can be a little overwhelming. Don't worry! Some simple steps and an optimistic attitude can help pave the way for a healthy pregnancy. Read More

Taking control of your cancer diagnosis

Nurses are amazing: Celebrate one today

When you, or a family member, need medical attention, one of the first people you encounter may be a nurse. Nurses provide constant care throughout the patient journey. From helping patients understand their treatment, through assisting with procedures, to the administration of medicine - the role of nurses is pivotal. Nurses are the critical-thinking, quick-acting, deeply caring professionals at the heart of good patient care. Read More

The best treatment for eczema can depend on the person and severity of the condition

If you think you might have eczema, the best first step is to see a health care professional. Since the skin condition comes in a variety of forms and can be accompanied by other conditions such as hay fever or asthma, the best treatment will depend on your situation. Read More

How to get relief from excessive underarm sweat

For most people, sporting a sweat-drenched T-shirt at the gym is no big deal. However, wearing a sweat-stained blouse or shirt at work or in a social setting is an entirely different, and in many cases mortifying, scenario. One in five adults are bothered by sweat and suffer silently, going to great lengths to conceal the unsightly effects. It is an embarrassing condition, impacting both men and women, and often negatively interfering with a person's social and professional life. Read More

Are little urine leaks a big problem? How to talk to your doctor

Your friend tells you a funny joke, and then it happens. You start pedaling during your spinning class, and it happens again. You hear water running and oops, you know you will also be wet. You might feel frustrated and embarrassed, but you are not alone. In fact, these types of urine leaks are quite common. Up to 50 percent of all women have occasional urine leaks and up to 10 percent have them frequently, according to the MedlinePlus Encyclopedia. Here's what you need to know. Read More

A caregiver's guide to understanding and managing opioid dependence

Weight loss requires more than just a simple fix

If losing weight was as simple as putting the money down to purchase a treadmill, or taking diet pills every day, the market for these products would disappear, because everyone would be thin. The key to losing weight is developing an exercise and diet plan that you can stick to consistently. If you've committed yourself to an exercise and diet regimen, and want to enhance your fitness program with a weight-loss product - whether it's a piece of equipment or a nutritional supplement - there are still a few questions you should ask yourself. Read More

Medication-free ways to relieve morning sickness

The moment you've dreamed about has arrived, and the pregnancy test reads "positive." Congratulations! During the first months of your pregnancy you'll probably experience joy, excitement and anticipation - and, unfortunately, morning sickness too. Fortunately, if you're experiencing morning sickness, there are natural, alternative remedies that can help. Read More

Bid adieu to achoo: finding relief from spring allergies

For many, spring signifies the budding of flowers and longer days filled with warm sunshine. But for one in five people, spring also means allergies are in full swing. Whether you're affected year-round or during a specific season, learning how to manage allergy symptoms can be vital to restoring your comfort and quality of life. Read More

Understanding asbestos: risk of exposure still exists

Help smokers keep resolutions and stay on track to quit - simple tips and tools

On average, it takes a smoker up to nine attempts to quit before they're able to do so successfully. Every relapse begins with smaller lapses - so quitters shouldn't stop trying. Here are some tips to help. Read More

Is your showerhead making you sick?

Hand sanitizer, flu shots and regular exercise are just some of the ways Americans build their immunity to protect themselves from harmful bacteria and illness. But many may be missing a simple step for preventing health problems. Showerheads are moist, warm, and dark, and those that spray hard water are especially ripe for bacterial growth. Read More

Enjoy outdoor activities while keeping ticks and mosquitos away

While warmer weather brings many opportunities to enjoy outdoor living spaces, it also ushers in unwanted pests like ticks and mosquitos. Read More

Natalie Coughlin gears up for the Games

Have you ever wondered how the top athletes stay in such great shape? Wonder no more - Gold Medalist and World Champion swimmer Natalie Coughlin is sharing her top training tips - from stretching to eating. Read More

The many benefits of bird watching

Bird watching is quickly becoming one of America's most popular hobbies and has fans spanning all age ranges, from the young to old. Whether it is the health benefits to people, the increased care for birds, or the scientific observations that occur during time spent watching birds, this hobby certainly creates positive paybacks to all involved. Read More

Five things you should know about hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a silent epidemic in America. Millions of Americans have chronic hepatitis C, which is caused through infection with the hepatitis C virus. Hepatitis C is a leading cause of liver cancer. As many as 75 percent of people who are living with hepatitis C don't know they are infected. Many myths prevail about this often-hidden disease. Here are the five things you need to know about hepatitis C. Read More

Military families and mental health: Understanding the issues and available resources

Today's service men and women are facing particularly challenging circumstances. Many soldiers have been deployed several times to the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, often serving in prolonged combat operations. Many soldiers, veterans and their families may have trouble recognizing the signs of a mental health condition. Read More

Simple diagnosis, treatment and prescriptions now a click away

Consumer access to medical information is also easier than ever. Since the first medical websites emerged in the late 1990s, people have flocked to them in skyrocketing numbers. Today, an estimated 80 percent of Americans go online to search for health information. Still, most health sites, while informative, can't diagnose or treat you. A new breed of "online clinics" connects customers directly with experienced practitioners who can treat them safely - and very conveniently - wherever they are. Read More

Secrets of safe sleep: What parents need to know before putting baby to bed

When a baby arrives in your home, the world changes. Even after the months of preparation and planning for the little one's arrival, the love a parent feels is stronger than could have been imagined - and so is the protective instinct. Giving your baby the finest of everything and keeping her safe are the top priorities for parents, but the gap between what seems like the right thing to do and what will actually be best for your child can be wide. Read More

Put kids' dental health on the fast track

When you're a NASCAR driver like Greg Biffle, driver of the No. 16 3M Ford Fusion in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, nothing makes you smile like a trip to victory lane. Biffle is helping deliver the message to children about healthy habits like brushing, flossing, visiting the dentist and making smart food choices. Read More

Volunteering: small acts, big change

For many communities across the country, the smallest acts of kindness can make the biggest difference. Whether it's working at a local soup kitchen, visiting a nursing home, mentoring youth, or helping to paint a local house in disrepair, there are many ways to get involved. Read More

Say 'opa' to a better you with a Mediterranean-flavored lifestyle

For many, adopting a healthier lifestyle can be a huge challenge, especially with everyone's unique body shape, personalities and likes and dislikes. A program that works for one person, may not work for you. The good news is many healthy activities found in a Mediterranean lifestyle can help you say "opa" - a Greek exclamation of joy -- to a better you. Read More

From scrape to scar and beyond: tips to minimize scarring

Fever facts for parents: What you should know when treating your child

With cold and flu season also comes fever season, and across the country, parents will experience anxiety levels that rise in tandem with their children's temperatures. But a child's fever doesn't have to be a scary experience for parents. Here are some things to know about managing a child's fever. Read More

Ten steps to conquering heart disease

Heart disease claims the lives of 600,000 Americans each year, and another 12.7 million suffer from heart attacks, yet 80 percent of all heart disease is preventable. Here are some tips for reducing your risk. Read More

How food safety knowledge can affect your health

Whether you're feeding yourself or feeding your family, it's important to know that the food you're eating is safe and nutritious. But perceptions about finding a balance between those two essential factors have become muddled in recent years. While there is an increased effort to promote the consumption of healthy foods, particularly fruits and vegetables, there are also conflicting messages about their safety. Read More

The rewards of a career as an occupational therapist

What do pediatrics, geriatrics and cardiology have in common? Patients in these three very different branches of medicine can benefit from occupational therapy. An occupational therapist (OT) helps people with disabling conditions to recover or develop daily living skills, such as dressing, cooking and eating. An OT's right-hand man, or woman, is the occupational therapy assistant (OTA). This versatile occupation is proving to be a rewarding career choice for many who are returning to school to heighten employment prospects. Read More

Five must-have fitness tools

Everyone wants to look and feel great, and selecting the right workout gear can make all the difference when pursuing a life of health and fitness. The five tools below are designed to help individuals achieve their wellness goals, whether kick starting a new workout regime or taking a current routine to the next level. Read More

Understanding and spreading knowledge about the risks of type 2 diabetes

Knowing your risk for developing type 2 diabetes is the first step in preventing or delaying the disease. Read More

Baby boomers - More active than ever with no plans of slowing down

Baby boomers are reshaping everyone's view of aging because they are living healthier, more active lifestyles and have no intention of slowing down. Despite their active lifestyles, many baby boomers and non-boomers alike live with bladder control issues - also known as incontinence. Read More

Surprising facts on hearing loss

Hearing loss alters the lives of millions of Americans, forcing families to make adjustments in living, working and social situations. It affects the elderly, veterans returning from war zones and even teenagers. Often, loud noises found at work or at home are the cause of hearing loss. Read More

A colonoscopy can be a lifesaver: simple tips to lower your risk of colon cancer

Every year, colon cancer takes the lives of tens of thousands of mothers, fathers, husbands, wives and friends, despite the fact that with an early screening, these deaths are highly preventable. Read More

Best options for beating the bugs of cold and flu season

Cold and flu season is now in full swing and staying healthy this time of year can be a challenge. For those suffering, identifying the type of illness - cold, flu, sinus infection, etc. - and finding the right over-the-counter medications are key in helping to alleviate symptoms. Read More

How to build muscle in your body with the help of a popular supplement

If you're into weightlifting or follow sports on even a superficial level, you've probably heard of creatine. A supplement that's exploded in popularity over the past 20 years, creatine is often used by professional athletes and casual weightlifters alike, in hopes it will enhance their performance and help build muscle. Read More

Maintain the health of your home with spring mold and mildew intervention

Mold and mildew are types of microscopic fungi that can be found both indoors and outdoors. There are more than 3,000 different types of mold, the spores of which are invisible and float through the air, attaching themselves to surfaces, and creating damage before we are able to even see the problem. Here's what you need to know and what you can do about it. Read More

Keeping snacks light

Hunger pangs between breakfast, lunch and dinner can strike even those with the most nutritious meal regimens. In fact, snacking recently has become popular; 97 percent of Americans snack daily, up from 71 percent four decades ago, according to a new study from the Journal of Nutrition. Read More

How to prevent accidental medication poisoning in children

Every day in the United States, about 165 kids - or roughly four busloads of children - are seen in emergency rooms for accidental medication poisonings. Medications are the leading cause of accidental child poisoning deaths today, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Read More

Consuming more fatty acids may reduce symptoms of dry eye

Dry eye is a condition where tears lack sufficient moisture and lubrication, which is necessary to maintain good eye health and clear vision. Tears not only wash away dust, but also soothe the eyes, provide oxygen and nutrients to the cornea and help defend against eye infections by removing bacteria. Several new studies have confirmed the correlation between fatty acids and an improvement in dry eye syndrome. Read More

Create a safer retreat for backyard summer fun

Swimming is the most popular summer activity and if you have a pool or spa, your backyard just may be this summer's most popular retreat for friends, neighbors and all the children that come with them. Adding as many water safety steps as possible is the best way to assure a safer and fun experience this summer. Read More

Feeling thirsty? You may want to talk to your doctor about that

Back pain, headaches and difficulty sleeping are common symptoms many people discuss with their doctors during routine checkups. Yet one symptom many patients overlook is dryness, especially dry mouth. If you think dry mouth isn't serious enough to mention to your doctor, think again. Read More

The insomnia wakeup call: Sleep deprivation is a serious health risk

It's 3:30 a.m. and you've just rolled over in bed for what seems like the 500th time. As you watch the minutes on the clock tick by, all you can think about is how tired you are going to be tomorrow. While the cause of your insomnia may vary night to night, the outcome is still the same: you're not asleep. You're also not alone. Read More

Centenarians can leave a lasting legacy by donating DNA to science

Living to 100 years old is a remarkable feat in itself, but now 100 centenarians will have the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy that could radically change medical care for generations to come. Read More

Women: Life-changing tips for better health and energy

Moms, career women, singles enjoying life with close friends and family, and even women approaching their retirement years - women at every life stage can benefit from adding simple activities to improve their happiness and health. Read More

Allergies or a cold? Decode your symptoms

When the weather warms up, it's hard to tell what is causing your sneezing, coughing and runny nose symptoms. The question is - when you sneeze, are you suffering from allergies, or experiencing the symptoms of a cold or the flu? Read More

Girlfriends banding together to conquer a common health issue

Nearly everything we'll ever need to know about being a girl, we'll learn from other girlfriends who've "been there, done that" before us. Even when things are medical, even when we love our OBGYNs, sometimes we're embarrassed or don't want to waste their time with things not involving making babies. That may explain why more than 7 million women suffer from heavy cycles, but go years without getting the help they need. Read More

What experts say about managing or preventing diabetes

Although genetics, environmental factors and obesity all play a role, the root cause of diabetes is essentially unknown. What experts do know is that certain people are more at risk for diabetes, and personal health goals, regular screenings and guidance from health professionals can help you manage or prevent the disease. Read More

Smart snacking that can boost your fitness routine

Eating right and exercising are the two most important elements of a healthy lifestyle. We hear it time and again that these simple principles hold more power than the latest fad diet, and for those who heed the advice, the proof is in the results. However, it's not always easy to figure out what's really good for you in the process of building - or maintaining - a healthy body. Read More

Keeping informed and educated about your health

Spring to it: Cleaning tips for creating a healthy home environment

Allergens lurk inside and outside your home, causing more than 40 million Americans with allergies to cough, sneeze and have itchy eyes all year long, especially in springtime. And, for 25 million Americans with asthma it can be even more problematic. You'd assume cleaning your home would help reduce these allergy triggers, but if you're not cleaning the right way, you could actually be making the problem worse. Read More

Elevate the traditional wedding with contemporary flair

If long-standing wedding traditions seem a little confining and out of date for your modern nuptial celebration, you're not alone. Lifestyles are trending toward practical and tasteful simplification. An easy-going elegance and a balance of formality and fun is now the norm. So you might ask, "How can creative couples introduce more contemporary options to their celebrations yet still craft a memorable, classy wedding?" Read More

Boomers: Living comfortably at home in style

As the years pass, Americans in the baby boomer generation are changing the definition of how they want to live comfortably during their later years. Boomers are opting to continue living where they're already secure and happy - right at home. Read More

How to protect your greatest asset - your home - from subterranean termites

When it comes to protecting your home's value, you have no control over some of the factors that influence real estate values, like nearby retail development or the job market in your area. You can, however, take control over one major factor in your home's value, its health and the health of your neighborhood - termites. Read More

Health care trends: looking for value without sacrificing quality

If there is one thing that the recent health care debate made clear, it is that Americans are unwilling to trade quality for economy when it comes to their health. But with the growing shortage of primary care physicians in the United States and an aging population, one trend born in underserved areas of the country may have the ability to cut costs without sacrificing quality: the use of non-physician professionals, such as physician assistants and nurse practitioners, in primary care facilities. Read More

When is nonprescription cold medicine not enough?

Do you have a cold that just won't go away? The aisle at your local drugstore is overflowing with different cold medicines, and choosing the right one feels like a gamble with your wallet taking the hit at every purchase. Here are some helpful tips to help you get better quick. Read More

Suffer from migraines? Treatments help prevent attacks before they start

What really is migraine? Some people casually use the term to describe a bad headache. But the millions who have been diagnosed with a migraine condition know that it's so much more than that. In addition to severe head pain that can last for hours or even days, they may also experience nausea, vomiting and extreme sensitivity to light or sound. Are there effective treatments for preventing debilitating migraine attacks? New guidelines say yes, but many people are not taking advantage of these treatments. Read More

Unscrambling the myths behind eggs and cholesterol

When it comes to eggs, dietary cholesterol and heart health, what you think you know may be a bit scrambled. Concerns over dietary cholesterol and its impact on heart disease keeps many people from eating eggs, despite their nutritional benefits. However, more than 40 years of research shows healthy adults can enjoy an egg every day without significantly impacting their risk of heart disease. Read More

How to increase your body's HGH level naturally

If you're a sports fan, you're probably familiar with the term human growth hormone - HGH for short. While you may have become familiar with HGH as a performance-enhancing substance that's banned in competitive sports, human growth hormone is actually something that your body produces naturally. Read More

Seven signs you may be experiencing hearing loss

Have you ever had a family member or coworker suggest you may be experiencing a problem hearing? Sure, sometimes your friends might joke about a missed conversation - especially if you weren't paying attention. But if the comments are happening more frequently, and not in a jovial manner, your friends and family may be trying to tell you something is wrong. Read More

Move over apples: For some patients, an aspirin-a-day may keep the doctor away

The statistics are staggering: As the leading cause of death in the United States, cardiovascular (or heart) disease accounts for more than 2,200 deaths per day, or one every 39 seconds. Adults should know how they can avoid becoming a statistic of heart disease. For many, knowing the leading risk factors and maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle will go a long way. Read More

Keep kids injury free while playing their favorite sports this summer

Summer vacation gives children a break from schoolwork, but for many, their participation in sports will continue in warm weather months. Parents, coaches and players need to keep injury prevention in mind to ensure sports stay safe and fun throughout the summer. Read More

Safe at home: the importance of using infant gear properly

Who's responsible for keeping infants safe from gear-related injury? Is it gear-makers, who must meet stringent manufacturing codes, perform strict mandatory government safety testing, and submit to oversight by safety-focused government agencies? Or are parents responsible? The answer, experts agree, is: both. Read More

Seven effective habits to prevent hearing loss

Hearing loss is common, but the perception that hearing loss is only caused by aging is incorrect. More than 36 million American have hearing loss. Changing lifestyle habits, and treating a variety of health conditions can help to prevent hearing loss. Read More

Food: Where does it come from? Straight answers to consumers' questions

Is the food we're eating healthy long-term? Is the planet able to sustain the amount of food we're producing? Americans are asking questions and thinking more critically when it comes to the food they eat. They want to know where it comes from, how it's grown and produced, and what effects this process has on our health as well as the health of the planet. Read More

Fuel your summer activities with smart foods that keep you going

As the sun stays in the sky longer and temperatures warm up, being more active is simply second-nature. Getting outdoors gives a new vitality to any exercise routine, whether you're kicking off training for your first 5K or maintaining a program you've enjoyed for years. Read More

Achieving a slimmer summer body for swimsuit season and beyond

Longer days, bright sun and warm weather can serve as a well-needed dose of motivation to get fit for summer. The trick is to sustain that energy through each changing season as you strive to achieve a healthier lifestyle. Read More

Summer allergies: Fact or fiction?

Allergens know no boundaries, and allergies don't disappear with May's showers. While bothersome grass pollens are gone by late June, other common triggers arise, making symptoms difficult to escape. But that doesn't mean the more than 60 million Americans who suffer from allergies and asthma can't enjoy barbecues, festivals and other outdoor activities. Read More

What you don't know about eyeglasses could affect your vision

For most people, selecting eyeglass frames is the highlight of the eye appointment and the lenses are seen as pieces of plastic or glass that don't involve a lot of buyer choice. But on the contrary, the best eyeglass lenses today are as hi-tech as any smartphone, and the visual difference between adequate lenses and great lenses can be as pronounced as the difference between a standard TV and your new HDTV. Once you've experienced the latter, you'll never want to watch TV the old way again. Read More

Lose weight for the wedding, but say 'I do' to a healthy lifestyle

Every bride wants to look great when the big day comes, but how many brides commit to fitting into her wedding dress on their 10th anniversary? Do you want to look good for a day, or feel good for the rest of your life? While considering vows, include a commitment to live healthfully ever after. Read More

Professionals find passion, paychecks in sports business industry

Decades ago, the sports industry was a combination of talented athletes and mom and pop business owners. But now, in an economic time when many industries are hurting, sports business is one that is thriving and growing. Read More

Early colon cancer detection means earlier treatment - what are the treatment options?

Colon cancer is the No. 2 cancer killer in the United States because it frequently catches people unaware, according to the National Cancer Institute. But half of the colon-cancer deaths each year could be avoided if every adult older than 50 is screened. Read More

What you can do to sleep better

If you're like many Americans, you long for more and better sleep. The secret to more restful nights varies for each person, but you can do several things to give yourself the best chance of getting a good night's rest. Read More