Diseases & Conditions Archive

A 2026 study found that larger waist measurements increased heart disease-related risks, even among people with normal weight. Obesity with a small waist conferred no greater risks compared to people with normal weight and a small waist.

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.

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.

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.

An elevated GGT result can have several explanations, from supplements and pain relievers to underlying liver conditions.

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.

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.

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.