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Blood test shows promise as simple test for Alzheimer's disease

A 2023 study suggests a blood test that looks for a specific biomarker may help identify people with Alzheimer's disease who may benefit from anti-amyloid therapy long before the disease is evident.

COVID-19 vaccination may lower the risk for long COVID

People who received a COVID vaccine during the first two years of the pandemic had a lower risk of developing long COVID, according to a 2024 study.

Polycystic ovary syndrome linked with cognitive decline at midlife

A 2024 study suggests that women with polycystic ovary syndrome, a condition stemming from a hormonal imbalance, may face higher risks of cognitive decline at midlife.

Migraines plus early menopause symptoms may add up to cardiovascular risks

A 2024 study suggests that younger women with migraines and early menopause symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats may have higher cardiovascular risks at midlife.

New allergies in adulthood

Contrary to common assumptions, new allergies can emerge well into adulthood. New food allergies are more common than new seasonal ones, and shellfish is the most prominent late-emerging allergen. Women are more likely to develop food allergies in adulthood than men and to grapple with severe food-related anxiety. Some people with childhood allergies, such as those to peanuts or pollen, stop having symptoms when they reach adulthood. People who experience potential new allergy symptoms should see their primary care doctor or an allergist.

Best treatments for this common finger problem

Doctors have three ways to treat Dupuytren's contracture, a condition that pulls one or more fingers toward the palm. A needle aponeurotomy breaks up the thick collagen tissue sticking to the tendons. A collagenase injection contains an enzyme that eats up and dissolves the collagen. Surgery involves the removal of the collagen tissue. With all three procedures, the condition can return. The procedure that's right for someone depends on the condition's severity and the location of the collagen.

Is there a good side to drug side effects?

Not all drug side effects are created equal: some are tolerable, some are dangerous -- and some may turn out to be surprisingly beneficial with weight loss and hair growth as superstar examples. Silver linings like these can lead to a new purpose for some medications.

Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) for type 2 diabetes: When and for whom are they useful?

Continuous glucose monitors, or CGMs, offer valuable and accurate insights into blood sugar levels. But it's important to understand who CGMs are most appropriate for.

Dupuytren's contracture of the hand

One condition affecting the hands and fingers is Dupuytren's contracture, where one or more fingers become curled, making it difficult to perform everyday activities. Dupuytren's affects one in 20 Americans, so what do people need to know about it?

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