The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a health alert regarding an outbreak of Sudan virus disease in Uganda, a viral hemorrhagic fever that belongs to the same family as Ebola. This alert comes as a Level 2 travel advisory, urging travelers to practice enhanced precautions due to the outbreak. The CDC's Health Alert Network advisory, issued on Thursday, provides crucial information for healthcare providers and public health agencies to be vigilant for potential cases.

February is often associated with heart health awareness, a time when many focus on eating right, exercising, and recognizing the signs of heart attack and stroke. As a urologist, however, I see a different side of heart health every day. Many of my patients require "cardiac clearance" before undergoing urological surgery. Yet, most patients have little understanding of what this process entails—or how crucial it can be for surgical outcomes. Contrary to popular belief, cardiac clearance isn't just a quick stamp of approval from a heart doctor. It's a comprehensive assessment that can reveal hidden heart issues, reduce surgical risk, and sometimes even save a life.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the first new type of pain reliever in over two decades, marking a significant milestone in the field of pain management. The drug, suzetrigine, is a 50-milligram prescription pill that will be sold under the brand name Journavx. This approval comes at a crucial time, as the US continues to grapple with the opioid crisis, and the need for non-addictive pain management options has never been more pressing.

On Thursday, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) made a landmark decision that has sent ripples through the public health community, the tobacco industry, and the political landscape. For the first time in history, the FDA authorized the sale of nicotine pouches, specifically Philip Morris International's Zyn, as a tool to help adult smokers cut back or quit cigarettes. This move marks a significant shift in the regulatory approach to tobacco products, but it is not without its fair share of controversy.

In the heart of Georgia, where the poultry industry reigns supreme as the state's number one agricultural sector, a new specter has risen to cast a dark shadow over the livelihoods of thousands. On a Friday, officials announced the confirmation of bird flu in a commercial poultry operation in Elbert County, marking a grim milestone in the ongoing battle against this highly contagious and potentially devastating disease. This is not just another case; it is a stark reminder of the vulnerability of Georgia's poultry industry and the relentless march of the virus that has swept across the nation since 2022.

In the quiet suburbs of Portland, Oregon, Jamila Acfalle, a dog trainer by profession, found herself in a unique predicament. Her home was a sanctuary for dogs with behavioral issues, animals that had been cast aside or were on the brink of euthanasia. These were not ordinary pets; they were troubled souls in need of understanding and rehabilitation. Amidst the chaos of barking and bounding canines, Acfalle yearned for a companion who could hold her own—a cat who would not cower in fear but stand her ground. Thus, when she met a litter of long-haired Maine Coons in 2021, it was the smoke gray kitten who boldly approached her, sat at her feet, and captured her heart. "I knew at that moment that she was my cat," Acfalle told CNN. With a dog named Hero, it seemed fitting to name the cat Villain.

The recent decision by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ban red dye No. 3 has reignited a long-standing debate over the safety of artificial food dyes and the regulatory oversight of these additives. Red dye No. 3, a synthetic colorant derived from petroleum, has been linked to cancer in animal studies for over three decades. Despite this, it has remained permissible for use in food, beverages, and ingested drugs until now. The ban, prompted by a 2022 petition from advocacy groups, raises questions about the safety of other widely used dyes, including red dye No. 40 and five other color additives commonly found in American products.

The Biden administration's announcement that Ozempic and Wegovy, two blockbuster GLP-1 medications, will be included in the next round of Medicare price negotiations has sparked significant attention. These drugs, known for their effectiveness in treating Type 2 diabetes and obesity, have also become popular for weight loss, despite their high costs. The inclusion of these medications in the negotiation process is a step towards addressing the soaring prices of essential drugs, but the ultimate impact on consumers remains uncertain, especially with the incoming Trump administration's stance on healthcare still unclear.

Charmella Roark vividly recalls the moment she learned of her younger sister Kiki's breast cancer diagnosis in 2018. The shock was palpable, especially given their family history with the disease. Just a few years prior, their aunt had succumbed to breast cancer. "I was in disbelief," Charmella said. "That’s my first best friend." The Roark sisters' story is not just a personal tragedy but a reflection of a broader trend emerging in the United States: the increasing incidence of cancer among younger women.

In recent years, GLP-1 medications have revolutionized the treatment landscape for conditions like diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. These drugs, including well-known names like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound, have not only transformed healthcare but also had a significant impact on public health, insurance coverage, and even the global economy. However, a groundbreaking new study published in Nature Medicine suggests that these medications may have far broader implications than initially realized—both in terms of potential benefits and previously underappreciated risks.

In the wake of the devastating wildfires that have swept through Southern California, survivors have faced a cascade of challenges. First came the fires, forcing thousands from their homes. Then, as evacuees sought refuge in shelters, they encountered new threats: ash, contaminated water, and now, outbreaks of norovirus and other gastrointestinal illnesses. This unexpected turn of events has highlighted the complexities of disaster response and the importance of proactive public health measures in the face of natural calamities.

In the ongoing battle against emerging infectious diseases, the United States is taking a significant step forward in the fight against avian influenza. The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced a $590 million investment in Moderna to accelerate the development of a vaccine to protect against bird flu. This move underscores the urgency and importance of preparing for potential pandemics, as well as the Biden-Harris administration's commitment to public health and safety.

As we step into a new year, many of us are making resolutions to improve our health. One critical resolution that often goes overlooked is the need to identify and address chronic medical conditions before symptoms arise. This proactive approach is essential for conditions like hypertension and diabetes, which can silently wreak havoc on our bodies over time. In this exploration, we delve into the prevalence of these conditions, the importance of early detection, and the steps individuals can take to manage or even prevent them. To guide us through these critical questions, we turn to Dr. Leana Wen, an emergency physician, adjunct associate professor at George Washington University, and former health commissioner of Baltimore.

As the clock strikes midnight and the new year begins, the air is filled with resolutions and aspirations. Gyms swell with new memberships, and fitness apps see a surge in downloads. Yet, amidst the hype of unrealistic goals and fleeting fitness trends, there lies a humble yet powerful form of exercise that can pave the way to a healthier, more active lifestyle: walking. Research has shown that even a modest amount of walking can set the stage for greater fitness achievements and significantly improve our health.

Stepping into the gym, you're fueled by determination and armed with a workout plan. Whether it's a brisk jog on the treadmill or a focused session of bicep curls on arm's day, your goals are set. Yet, amidst the clatter of weights and the hum of cardio machines, there's a crucial element that often gets overlooked: the art of stretching. It's a simple act, but one that can dramatically enhance your gym experience and results.

As the confetti settles and the holiday decorations are packed away, the start of a new year often brings with it a sense of exhaustion. The hustle and bustle of the festive season – hosting the perfect party, finding the right gifts, or staging the ideal holiday mise-en-scène – can leave us feeling drained. And just when we think we can catch our breath, popular culture steps in with a new set of demands: the New Year's resolutions. These self-imposed marching orders to improve ourselves, often with a focus on health, can feel like yet another mountain to climb. But what if the solution to better health – mental, emotional, and physical – lies not in doing more, but in doing less and learning to let go, even just a little?

In an era where health consciousness is on the rise, it's paradoxical to note that fewer people are embracing a healthy diet – and even more concerning, they're not enjoying it. This alarming trend has been brought to light by new data, painting a gloomy picture of our global eating habits. "In some instances, we're still seeing strong majorities of people saying that they enjoy their food," said Andrew Dugan, consulting principal researcher at Gallup. "But the decline has been pretty stark."

Imagine this: you tuck yourself into bed, exhausted from a long day at work, only to find sleep elusive. The hours tick by as you toss and turn, your mind racing with thoughts of deadlines and meetings. Finally, you drift off, but all too soon, the alarm blares, jolting you awake. You stumble through your day, bleary-eyed and sluggish, struggling to focus on tasks that once came easily. Sound familiar? You're not alone. In fact, you're part of a growing epidemic of sleep-deprived workers, and the very nature of your job may be the culprit.

Arthritis is a widespread chronic health condition that affects over 53 million adults in the U.S. alone, according to the Arthritis Foundation. It is not a single disease but an umbrella term encompassing more than 100 different types of arthritis and related diseases. Despite its prevalence, arthritis is often shrouded in myths and misconceptions, leading to confusion about its causes, treatments, and management strategies. To help you better understand and manage this common condition, let's debunk some of the most common myths and provide evidence-based insights.

When it comes to maintaining optimal health, few aspects are as crucial yet often overlooked as bowel regularity. Constipation, bloating, and digestive discomfort can significantly impact your quality of life, leaving you feeling sluggish and unwell. Fortunately, there is a simple yet powerful daily habit that can greatly support your digestive system and improve your bowel health: regular exercise.