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Healthy aging and longevity Archive

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Cancer survivors' sleep is affected long after treatment

According to a new study, many people who have survived cancer treatment experience poor sleep long after treatment has ended. These people also reported emotional distress, financial hardship, and concern that their cancer might return. Many sleep disorders can be treated successfully, but an accurate diagnosis is essential to choosing the correct treatment.

What happened to trusting medical experts?

In all aspects of our lives, we rely on the knowledge and advice of experts. So why are hundreds of thousands of people in the US rejecting advice on COVID-19 from well-respected health authorities, and embracing advice from those with dubious expertise –– and unproven and potentially dangerous remedies?

Surprising findings about metabolism and age

Metabolism is combination of all the chemical processes that allow an organism to sustain life. Multiple factors like age, sex, body mass, physical activity all have an effect on metabolism, but a new study revealed surprising information about the timing of age-related changes in metabolism over the course of the lifespan.

Did we really gain weight during the pandemic?

Researchers studying weight gain during the pandemic looked at health records for millions of people from both before it and during the first year of it. Unsurprisingly, a significant percentage of people gained weight, but less expected is that nearly as many people lost weight during the same time period.

Inspect your nails for melanoma

Melanoma doesn’t only affect the skin; it can sometimes occur in and around the nails on the fingers and toes. People should examine the nails as well as the skin for signs of cancer. One sign to look for is dark streaks or bands under the nail.

What are the best ways to trim my waist?

Attacking visceral fat found deep inside the abdomen, around the organs, is the best way to reduce waist size. Doing more aerobic and resistance exercise, limiting sugary foods and beverages, getting enough sleep, and managing stress can help.

Sunscreen makers withdraw products found to contain cancer-causing substance

In July 2021, Johnson & Johnson recalled five aerosol sunscreen products and CVS stopped selling two sunscreen products because of the presence of the carcinogen benzene.

Reduce the health risks from "forever chemicals"

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of thousands of manmade chemicals that are widely used in products such as nonstick pans, stain repellants for furniture and carpets, cosmetics, and industrial products. These compounds are dangerous to human health and may lead to immune system problems and increased risk of certain cancers. Avoiding exposure by filtering water and choosing PFAS-free products can help to reduce those risks.

Do statins increase the risk of dementia?

A study published June 29, 2021, by the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC) found no link between statin use and a higher incidence of dementia in adults ages 65 and older, but other studies have described possible cognitive changes related to statin use. Experts say that the benefits of taking a statin for people who have risk factors for cardiovascular disease generally far outweigh the risks. Statin use can reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke by 25% to 30%.

Fitness with a function

Functional fitness is about improving everyday movements like bending, reaching, twisting, and squatting. Conventional exercises can strengthen the muscles needed to perform these movements, but older adults often need additional exercises that improve how the body moves when doing these actions. These can include sit-to-stand, walking, and chair twists and arm raises.

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