Healthy aging and longevity Archive

A 2024 study suggests that women who engage in the most physical activity-regardless of how it's measured-have significantly lower risks of developing cardiovascular disease or dying early.

Prolonged grief disorder (PGD) involves 12 months or longer of debilitating grief. An estimated 7% to 10% of bereaved people experience PGD. Signs include feeling as though part of you has died, marked sense of disbelief about the death, denial or immense difficulty accepting the loss, extreme loneliness, and feeling that life is meaningless. People who are more vulnerable to PGD include women in general as well as people who lost a loved one in a traumatic or unexpected way, lost a child, or have coped with anxiety or depression. Treating PGD may involve a blend of therapies.

Annually, about 790,000 Americans (about 60% women) undergo knee replacement surgery. Women are more likely to have arthritis, the main culprit leading to most knee replacements. Before surgery becomes an option, people first need to try conservative treatments such as pain relievers, injectable medications, and physical therapy. Signs a knee replacement may be necessary include pain that hinders people from doing basic activities, unstable walking, and needing multiple medications to function.

Cuticles hinder germs from entering the nail bed. Dry, cracked, or damaged cuticles may become infected, leading to a red, swollen, painful area around the nail. Mild nail infections can be treated at home, but people should see their doctor if the infection doesn't resolve.

Charcoal toothpastes, marketed as tooth whiteners, contain activated charcoal, an abrasive substance that can help remove surface stains. While safe in small doses, charcoal toothpaste shouldn't be used daily, since it may damage tooth enamel.

A 2024 study found that low-dose aspirin therapy was more effective than taking anticoagulants for reducing the risk of blood clots following a total knee replacement surgery. Aspirin therapy also caused fewer bleeding complications.

Updated guidelines say adults don't need routine testing of vitamin D levels. However, they should aim for daily vitamin D intake of 600 international units (IU) until age 70, and 800 IU after that either through vitamin D-fortified foods or a supplement of up to 1,000 IU.

Eating a plant-based diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables has been shown to help lower high blood pressure. A 2024 study has found that these foods may also protect against worsening of chronic kidney disease in people with high blood pressure.

In a 2024 study of 900 dementia-free older adults, those who developed mild cognitive impairment had lower levels of life purpose and personal growth years before a diagnosis, compared with those whose thinking skills remained sharp.

In 2024, the FDA approved a blood test called Shield as a screening method for colorectal cancer. The test detects 83% of colorectal cancers, but only 13% of precancerous polyps. The FDA approval means that now many insurance plans will pay for the test.