Public Health

How to stay healthy this flu season

About 40 million people contracted the flu last year, with hundreds of thousands hospitalized and 35,400 to 61,000 deaths, including 134 children, according to...

A single teabag can release 11 billion pieces of microplastics in your cup

In a new study, researchers found plastic teabags shed micro- and nano-size plastic into people’s drink. Because the possible health effects of ingesting the particles...

Flavoring ingredient exceeds safety levels in e-cigarettes, Duke study shows

In a new study, researchers found a potential carcinogen that has been banned as a food additive is present in very high levels in...

This popular artificial sweetener may harm your health

Aspartame, more commonly known as Nutrasweet, is the world’s most widely used artificial sweetener. Nutrasweet is found in thousands of products around the world including...

New method for pain relief without opioids

The United States has approximately 5% of the world’s population, but accounts for 99% of the world’s consumption of hydrocodone, an opioid used to...

These e-cigarette flavors may harm your body most

Cigarette smoking causes 1 out of every 3 deaths that result from heart disease. But there is little scientific evidence on the toxicity and health...

FDA: People should avoid THC-containing vaping products

Consumers are likely aware of the recent reports of respiratory illnesses — including some resulting in deaths – following the use of vaping products. The...

Suicide rates surging, especially in rural America

In a new study, researchers found suicide is becoming more common in America, an increase most pronounced in rural areas. They also found a cluster...

Hurricanes, Fires, Floods: How to be fully prepared

As people prepare for the wild winds and heavy rain that Hurricane Dorian may bring, you may be wondering what to do if disaster...

Quitting smoking may cut heart disease risk by 40%

In a new study, researchers found heavy cigarette smokers with at least a 20 pack-year smoking history can reduce their risk of heart disease...