Diseases & Conditions Archive

Physical activity, even as little as 15 minutes a day of moderate-intensity exercise, is linked with a lower risk of stroke and death in people with atrial fibrillation.

Men without evidence of low testosterone levels (hypogonadism) who use testosterone appear to face a higher risk of serious cardiovascular problems and death from all causes than men who use testosterone replacement therapy for documented hypogonadism, according to a 2026 study.

For people with excess weight, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease, using the GLP-1 drug tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) may lower the risk of heart attack, infection, and death from any cause more than taking an older drug, sitagliptin (Januvia), according to a 2026 study.

Several factors increase the risk for complications from COVID-19 or influenza and should prompt someone to request an antiviral medication as soon as possible, even if they have been vaccinated or have had the infections before. The risk factors are age (being 65 or older), an impaired immune system, and underlying conditions (especially heart or lung disease). Pregnant women also are at increased risk for severe influenza and COVID, and should consider taking an antiviral.

Symptoms of atrial fibrillation include a fluttering, pounding sensation in the chest and a lightheaded, dizzy, or breathless feeling. But about a quarter of people with this disorder don’t notice any symptoms.

Head or neck trauma can sometimes damage key arteries supplying the brain. Find out how this rare injury might trigger a stroke in younger adults.

GLP-1 drugs, such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, used for diabetes and weight loss, may also reduce knee osteoarthritis pain and delay knee replacement surgery. In a large 2026 study, the use of any GLP-1 was linked to a reduced likelihood of knee replacement over eight years.

For people managing a chronic illness or recovery, medically tailored meals—home-delivered and dietitian-planned—can help. Research shows they improve health outcomes, reduce hospitalizations, and save billions in health care costs. Programs range from full meal delivery to grocery boxes and produce vouchers.

A prediabetes diet is an eating plan that may help prevent prediabetes from turning into full-blown diabetes. Many different foods can fit into this style of eating, including fruits and vegetables, beans and legumes, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. While no foods are off-limits, prediabetes diets generally are low in sugary foods, refined carbohydrates, fast foods, fried foods, and alcohol.