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Menopause supplements: Effective relief or empty promises?

Dozens of over-the-counter supplements are marketed to women in the menopause transition that purportedly help relieve bothersome symptoms such as hot flashes, low libido, brain fog, or mood shifts. But because these products don't require FDA approval or rigorous testing, women should be wary about their effectiveness. Women who consider menopause supplements should avoid blended products, stop taking them if they experience side effects, and try healthy lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, and weight control to allay symptoms.

Tattoos may raise lymphoma risks

A 2024 study suggests that having one or more tattoos may raise a person's risk of developing lymphoma, a type of blood cancer.

What kinds of cancer screenings should men get as they age?

Of the cancer screening tests for men, tests for colon cancer has the strongest evidence for benefit. Men who opt in for prostate cancer screening may have more options beyond PSA blood testing to more accurately identify aggressive cancers. Other screening tests such as full body scans have not been shown to improve outcomes.

Want to cool down? 14 ideas to try

Climate change has made summers hotter, and the struggle to stay cool has led to more cases of heat-related illness. Don't wait until you're overheated to figure out how to cool down; use these ideas to get you started.

Beyond tobacco: Lung cancer in nonsmokers

While cigarette smoking remains the biggest cause of lung cancer, between 15% and 25% of cases globally occur in people who have never smoked. Lung cancer claims more women's lives than breast and ovarian cancer combined. Risk factors among nonsmokers include age, family history, chronic lung conditions, and exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke, radon, diesel fumes, air pollution, and asbestos. People concerned about their risks should discuss it with their doctor, reduce exposure to lung cancer contributors, and get involved in advocacy efforts.

Hormone therapy benefits outweigh risks for younger women

A 2024 study suggests that hormone therapy for women under 60, including micronized progesterone and estrogen taken through the skin, effectively treats menopause symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats while posing few health risks.

Depression more likely during perimenopause than before or after

A 2024 study suggests that women in perimenopause are significantly more likely to experience depression than either before or after this stage.

What causes a man's breasts to grow?

Breast enlargement can be common in men. The two primary reasons are excess weight and gynecomastia, a condition that causes the breast's glandular tissues to grow.

Why is there blood in my urine?

Blood in the urine is often due to a urinary tract infection or kidney stones, but it might also indicate a more serious problem. To determine the cause, doctors start by analyzing a urine sample. Other tests may include imaging scans or cystoscopy to look inside the bladder.

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