A person’s genes play a far greater role in likely lifespan than previously thought, according to a major new study published Thursday in the journal Science . Using data from human twin studies, an international team of researchers arrived at the conclusion that the genetic contribution to how long we’re likely to live is as high as 55%. This new finding is strikingly higher than previous estimates, which have calculated the role of genetics in lifespan could range from 6% t

There are more than 2 million new cancer cases diagnosed each year in the United States, and cancer is the country’s second leading cause of death. Most cancers are caused by factors outside your control, but at least 42% of new cases are potentially avoidable. Strategies that can lower your risk often improve your overall health. ‘I’ve Been Intentional About Having Fresher Foods’ Research has repeatedly linked ultra-processed foods—generally those with a long shelf life that

There’s good news for the 86 million Americans with high cholesterol. A new study from researchers at the University of Oxford found that statins, a group of cholesterol-lowering medications, do not cause the majority of side effects listed on their packaging, such as weight gain, nausea, and fatigue. “This finding has huge public health implications,” said Michael D. Shapiro, DO, MCR, director of the Center for Preventive Cardiology at Wake Forest Baptist Health, who was not

This could be  grate  news for cheese lovers: A recent study found potential links between cheese and positive health outcomes, particularly when it comes to sleep. The results of the study, published in the December edition of the Sleep Medicine journal, found that eating more cheese may be linked to a reduced likelihood of developing sleep apnea, a potentially serious medical condition that can cause you to stop breathing while you sleep. The study’s researchers pointed out

It’s likely that you might have taken your health for granted in early adulthood. Maybe you could run a quick mile or stand on your feet all day long at a theme park. However, as you age, you may notice that your body doesn’t usually work as well as it used to. For example, after the age of 50, bone breakdown happens quicker than formation, which results in bone loss. That said, there are daily habits and practices that older adults can engage in to help ease some of the ache

Most people can meet their daily vitamin C needs—75 milligrams (mg) for women and 90 mg for men—through their diet and don't need a supplement. Eating foods high in vitamin C provides additional benefits from nutrients such as fiber and other essential vitamins and minerals. 1. Acerola Cherry Serving: 1/2 cup Vitamin C: 825 milligrams (mg) Daily value: 1,100% for women, 917% for men Acerola is a small red cherry species that's grown in certain tropical regions. Acerola cherri

While many factors may contribute to feeling tired all the time, certain nutrient deficiencies may also play a role. Vitamins and minerals support a variety of body functions, and having too little of some of them can impact your energy levels, making it harder to get through your day. 1. Magnesium Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in many chemical reactions throughout the body, including those that create energy. Magnesium also helps regulate your nervous system, k

Reading books benefits both your physical and mental health, and those benefits can last a lifetime. Even if you didn’t fall in love with reading as a kid, it’s never too late to start. Reading can even be a form of therapy for improving well-being. Bibliotherapy is a complementary therapeutic tool for emotional release and reduced stress and anxiety. Here’s how reading books can change your brain — and your body — for the better. Strengthens the brain Reading involves activi

Belly Fat: More Than Skin Deep One fact about stomach fat you should know is this: It's not just that squishy layer right under your skin -- the kind you grab to see if you can "pinch an inch." Visceral fat is the name for the kind that lies deep in your torso. It packs around your intestines, liver, and stomach. It can also line your arteries. And it can be risky for your health. But you don't need special diets or exercises to lose it -- just healthy habits. What Are the He

A new report predicts that close to half of U.S. adults will be diagnosed with obesity a decade from now. The analysis, published as an original investigation in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA)Trusted Source, projects that 126 million U.S. adults will be living with obesity by 2035. That would be almost 47% of the population. That compares with the 107 million U.S. adults currently estimated to have obesity. They comprise about 42% of the population. Th

Heart Attack Arm or shoulder pain can be a sign, especially if you also have pain or pressure in the center of your chest and shortness of breath. A heart attack can be sudden, but sometimes it’s gradual. The feeling might last a few minutes, or stop and return. Your stomach, jaw, back, or neck also might hurt. You could also get sick to your stomach, lightheaded, and clammy with sweat. Call 911 if you notice these symptoms. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Nine tendons and a nerve (ca

Can you help your brain stay healthy as you age by doing things that challenge your mind? Could that also help you avoid memory loss, or even prevent or delay dementia such as Alzheimer's? Scientists need to do more research to find out for sure. But a number of studies show there are benefits to staying mentally active. Here’s what we know about the impact of exercising your brain. Can brain exercises help delay memory loss or dementia? When people keep their minds active, t

Some things in life feel unavoidable: death, taxes and … brushing your teeth. Yet for all the “practice” you get caring for your pearly whites — ideally, you’re brushing twice a day and flossing daily, year in and year out — you’d think you’d be a pro at it by now. But the health data tell a different story. Tooth decay, which includes cavities or caries, is the most common noncommunicable disease around the globe, a statistic that holds true even in the United States. That,

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is taking his Make America Healthy Again agenda to Nashville, Tennessee, on Wednesday to rally support from voters for the Trump administration’s health policies. Tennessee marks Kennedy’s second stop on his "Take Back Your Health" tour this year in the lead-up to the 2026 elections, and he is likely to address various health policy goals from President Donald Trump. Healthcare will likely be a major motivator for vote

On New Year’s Eve, Lee Zeldin did something out of character for an Environmental Protection Agency leader who has been hacking away at regulations intended to protect Americans’ air and water. He announced new restrictions on five chemicals commonly used in building materials, plastic products and adhesives, and he cheered it as a “MAHA win.” It was one of many signs of a fragile collaboration that has been building between a Republican administration traditionally supportiv