PAIN
Study suggests migraine may be overlooked in women with enlarged breast tissue: Women with enlarged breast tissue who experience frequent headaches are often told they have “tension headaches,” but new research from Wake Forest University School of Medicine suggests many have migraine, a neurologic condition that requires different evaluation and treatment. The findings were recently published in Cephalalgia Reports.
Fighting back pain and sports injuries: Could microgravity be a new solution? Degenerative disc disease (DDD) and chronic low back pain (LBP) together represent a massive global health challenge. Current treatments often focus on symptom relief rather than addressing underlying causes. A groundbreaking review by Dr. Zhang’s team, published on Spine Research, synthesizes evidence suggesting that short-term simulated weightlessness could be a game-changing therapeutic strategy. The research evaluates practical ground-based techniques to achieve this effect—from costly parabolic flights to more accessible options like water immersion and patient-friendly dry immersion therapy. These techniques are particularly valuable for athletes, whose spines endure persistent high stress, serving as a powerful rehabilitation tool to relieve nerve pressure, correct spinal alignment, and lower re-injury risk. Spine Research
Emotional pain, not fear, weighs more heavily on individuals with PTSD: New research is challenging the long-held view of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a fear-based disorder. In a new study, 68% of trauma-exposed individuals reported that emotional pain (guilt, shame, sadness, loss of joy) impaired their daily functioning more than fear. The findings from this research in Biological Psychiatry, published by Elsevier, underscore the need to broaden PTSD models beyond fear and re-evaluate treatment pathways accordingly.
Blocking pain at the source: Hormone therapy rewires nerve signals in aging spines: A new study published in Volume 14 of the journal Bone Research on January 22, 2026, suggests that a hormone treatment may help relieve chronic back pain by limiting abnormal nerve growth inside damaged spinal tissue.
What causes chronic pain? New study identifies key culprit in the brain: A neural circuit hidden in an understudied region of the brain plays a critical role in turning temporary pain into pain that can last months or years, according to new University of Colorado Boulder research. The animal study, published in the Journal of Neuroscience, found that silencing this pathway, known as the caudal granular insular cortex (CGIC), can prevent or halt chronic pain.
Shared process underlies oral cancer pain and opioid tolerance Blocking growth factor receptor signaling using cancer drugs may overcome two challenges: managing cancer pain and preventing tolerance to painkillers. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling in the tissue around oral cancers both increases nerve sensitivity and makes opioids less effective, according to new research published in Science Signaling. The findings point to a shared mechanism underlying both oral cancer pain and opioid tolerance—and a possible new treatment strategy for both.
Acupuncture for migraine without aura and connection-based efficacy prediction: This trial demonstrated acupuncture’s efficacy for migraine without aura pain relief and functional improvement. Connectome-based predictive modeling identified default mode network and subcortical cerebellum hypoconnectivity as predicting pain relief and subcortical-cerebellum-motor hyperconnectivity as predicting reduced disability, providing a personalized treatment framework. JAMA Network Open
Physical therapy research highlights arthritis’ toll on the workforce — and the path forward: According to new research from the University of Delaware, nearly 40% of American adults ages 18 to 64 with arthritis — almost 10 million people — say the medical condition is limiting their ability to work. Co-author Daniel White, associate professor of physical therapy at UD, analyzed findings from the 2023 National Health Interview Survey, which was recently published in the journal Arthritis Care & Research. Although the data did not classify employment types, it included socioeconomic factors that showed Hispanic adults, veterans and those without a college education were more likely to experience arthritis challenges at work. “That points to more manual labor or to those working in trades suffering more from arthritis-attributable work limitations,” White said. “Whereas with veterans, it could be past combat-related injuries; they’re also at a higher risk for osteoarthritis from carrying heavy backpacks and gear.”
COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE
People who switched to cannabis drinks cut their alcohol use nearly in half: A new University at Buffalo study suggests cannabis-infused beverages could help some people cut back on alcohol. In a survey of cannabis users, those who drank cannabis beverages reported cutting their weekly alcohol intake roughly in half and binge drinking less often. Nearly two-thirds said they reduced or stopped drinking alcohol after starting cannabis drinks. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, 2026
Mindfulness practices found to significantly reduce depression symptoms, especially for those with early-life adversity: A new study reveals that mindfulness practices may significantly reduce depression symptoms, particularly in people who have experienced early-life adversity, such as childhood abuse and neglect. Led by Eric Loucks, professor of medicine, epidemiology, and of behavioral and social sciences and director of the Mindfulness Center at Brown, the study enrolled 201 participants, 101 of whom were randomized into the Mindfulness-Based Blood Pressure Reduction Program, while 100 were randomized into an enhanced usual care control, which included home blood-pressure monitors, physician access and health-education materials. Researchers also had a measure of participants’ early-life adversity, particularly their exposure to abuse or neglect.
Study finds mindfulness enables more effective endoscopies in awake patients: In the study, published in the British Journal of Nursing, patients whose endoscopies were supported by mindfulness had higher satisfaction levels than had previously been reported by patients who’d been sedated. Researchers say mindfulness, combined with advanced endoscopy techniques and state-of-the-art digital technology, enables procedures to be done to a higher standard in awake patients than is currently possible under general anaesthesia or sedation. This means there is less chance of cancers being missed, with fewer associated complications, and less cost.
Patients tried everything for depression then this implant changed their lives: Researchers report that vagus nerve stimulation helped many people with long-standing, treatment-resistant depression feel better—and stay better—for at least two years. Most participants had lived with depression for decades and had exhausted nearly every other option. Those who improved at one year were very likely to maintain or increase their gains over time. Even some patients who didn’t respond initially improved after longer treatment. International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology
FDA
• Approved a first-of-its-kind device for the treatment of adult patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer. Optune Pax, developed by Novocure, is a portable, non-invasive device that delivers alternating electrical fields, known as tumor treating fields (TTFields), to the abdomen.
• Approved drug labeling changes to six menopausal hormone therapy products, also known as hormone replacement therapy (HRT), to clarify risk considerations for these drugs. Specifically, risk statements related to cardiovascular disease, breast cancer and probable dementia were removed from the “boxed warning,” the agency’s most prominent safety-related warning.
• Approves Bysanti for Treatment of Bipolar 1 Disorder and Schizophrenia
• Approves Calquence in Combination with Venetoclax for Treatment of Adults with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia and Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma
PREVENTION: Exercise
Best Types of Exercise for Anxiety and Depression, According to New Research: A new study found that aerobic exercise can be highly effective for reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety, with benefits comparable to standard treatments.
Group-based exercise provides the strongest relief for depression, offering structure, social connection, and accountability. Shorter, lower-intensity exercise programs are best for easing anxiety, helping individuals build tolerance without triggering overstimulation. Experts say exercise is a powerful stand-alone or complementary mental health tool for many people. British Journal of Sports Medicine,
Physical Activity May Reduce Breast Cancer Risk, Study Shows: Research has long shown that adult females who are more physically active may have a lower risk of developing breast cancer than those who are not. However, new research published in Breast Cancer Research has found that more physical activity during adolescence may affect breast cancer risk markers later in life.
Previous researchTrusted Source has found that adult females who are more physically active may be able to lower their risk of breast cancer by up to 21% compared to those who are less active.
Which types of physical activity may help prolong life span? A mix of healthy lifestyle choices, such as getting enough physical activity, can help people live a longer, healthier life. However, the types of physical activity best for longevity remain underexplored. A new study says that regularly participating in a variety of different types of physical activity, such as running, cycling, and swimming, may be the best way to help prolong your lifespan. BMJ Medicine
Regular Exercise Can Help Reduce Anxiety and Make You More Resilient: A recent study published in Acta Psychologica investigated whether higher cardiorespiratory fitness may be associated with lower levels of anxiety and anger. The researchers examined whether people with different fitness levels exhibit distinct emotional responses to unpleasant visual stimuli. The findings indicate that people with higher levels of physical activity experienced less anxiety and greater emotional resilience in response to stressful situations.
Regular Exercise Lowers Death Risk Across 7 Cancer Types, Study Finds: a new large-scale study published on February 17 in JAMA Network Open found that participating in moderate to vigorous physical activity after a cancer diagnosis may help improve survival rates. Several less commonly studied cancers were examined in the study, including bladder, endometrial, kidney, lung, oral cavity, ovarian, and rectal. The authors also noted that even individuals who were inactive prior to their cancer diagnosis may find taking up exercise beneficial. Altogether, 17,141 adults were included who were survivors of one of the seven cancers studied.
Short Sprints May Beat Relaxation Therapy For Treating Panic Disorder: In a clinical trial of 72 adults with panic disorder, researchers found that brief bursts of intense running, alternated with gentle walking, reduced the severity and frequency of panic attacks more effectively than a standard relaxation technique used in cognitive behavioural therapy. And the benefits held up for at least six months.
Physical Inactivity Linked to Diabetes Complications Like Stroke, Eye Disease: A recent study published in the Journal of Sport and Health Science found that a lack of physical activity may drive certain health issues associated with type 2 diabetes. “Our findings challenge this idea by showing that a meaningful proportion of these complications could be prevented through achievable increases in physical activity among people living with diabetes.”
PREVENTION: Sleep
Short Afternoon Nap May Boost Brain Health, Improve Learning Ability: A small new study published in NeuroImage suggested that even a short afternoon nap can help your brain recover and improve your ability to learn. The findings show that a nap may be enough to reorganize connections between nerve cells, allowing your brain to store new information more efficiently. Up until now, this was something that was thought to only occur after a full night’s sleep. This new study found that short sleep periods can relieve your brain and return it to a state of readiness to learn. This process may be particularly beneficial for those with a high workload.
Pink Noise May Disrupt REM Sleep and Harm Sleep Quality, Researchers Say: Pink noise is a constant, soothing sound that contains all the frequencies humans can hear. It’s often compared to natural sounds, like rain, the rustling of leaves, or a waterfall. People often use pink noise in sound machines or apps to mask other noise, sharpen focus, and promote a deeper sleep. However, a recent study published in the journal Sleep suggests that using pink noise may disrupt restorative rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and interfere with sleep recovery. REM sleep is an active stage of sleep that involves high brain activity, vivid dreaming, increased heart rate, and temporary paralysis. A disrupted REM cycle can affect your mental health, your ability to learn, and your memory. Pink noise alone, at 50 decibels, was associated with a nearly 19-minute decrease in REM sleep. This level of pink noise is often compared to the sound of moderate rainfall.
Are You a Night Owl? Your Cardiovascular Disease Risk May Be Higher: “Night owls,” or people who go to bed later for any number of reasons, may have worse cardiovascular health outcomes compared to those who follow traditional sleep patterns. A new study published on January 28 in the Journal of the American Heart AssociationTrusted Source found that night owls had higher risks of cardiovascular events like heart attack and stroke.
PREVENTION: Diet
Ultra-Processed Foods Linked to Higher Death Risk in Cancer Survivors: Cancer survivors who eat higher amounts of ultra-processed foods in their diets have a significantly increased risk of death from all causes, as well as from cancer. A new study found that people who ate the highest amount of ultra-processed foods by weight ratio had a 48% higher rate of death from any cause. They also had a 57% higher rate of death from cancer compared to those who ate the least amount of ultra-processed foods. The findings were published on February 4 in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention.
Morning Coffee May Help Lower Your Cardiovascular Disease, Dementia Risk: A 2025 study analyzed patterns of coffee drinking and whether the time of day it is consumed affects mortality outcomes. The study found that people who consumed coffee primarily in the morning, rather than throughout the day, had a lower mortality risk than non-coffee drinkers. JAMATrusted Source
Healthy Low Carb, Low Fat Diets May Improve Heart, Metabolic Health: New research shows that healthy versions of low carb and low fat diets that emphasized plant-based foods, unsaturated fats, and whole grains were associated with a significantly lower risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). The findings were published on February 11 in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology
12-Week Intermittent Fasting Protocol Reduces Crohn’s Symptoms by 40%: A new study found that people with Crohn’s disease with overweight or obesity can significantly reduce their symptoms and reduce inflammation by adhering to a type of intermittent fasting known as time-restricted feeding. “This research suggests that changing when we eat — not just what we eat — can improve metabolism, help the immune system work better, and support long-term remission from Crohn’s disease.” Gastroenterology.
Intermittent Fasting for Weight Loss: Does the Evidence Live Up to the Hype? A new review of evidence found that intermittent fasting is not superior to other dietary patterns for weight loss.The researchers said that intermittent fasting is unlikely to lead to greater weight loss in people who are diagnosed with overweight or obesity when compared to traditional dietary advice or not adopting any dietary plan at all. The findings were published on February 15 in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.
Can a Keto Diet Really Help With Depression? Studies Offer Insight: A ketogenic diet is a low-carbohydrate, high fat diet that has been shown to provide various benefits, such as weight loss. A recent study published in JAMA PsychiatryTrusted Source suggested that following a keto diet may help manage symptoms in people with treatment-resistant depression. Treatment-resistant depression is a subset of major depressive disorder (MDD) that does not respond to traditional first-line treatments, such as medications and psychotherapy. Despite these positive findings, experts caution that a keto diet should not replace standard treatment for depression. There may also be certain risks associated with keto, which is why it’s important to consult with a mental health or healthcare professional before trying this diet.
Mediterranean Diet May Lower Stroke Risk in Females, Study Says: A new study shows an association between the Mediterranean diet and a lower risk of stroke in females. Those who most closely followed the diet were 18% less likely to experience a stroke. The Mediterranean diet emphasizes vegetables, legumes, fruits, fish, and olive oil, and a reduced intake of dairy, red meat, and saturated fats. Neurology Open Access
Short-Term Oatmeal Diet May Help Lower 'Bad' Cholesterol, Aid Weight Loss: A new study published in Nature CommunicationsTrusted Source suggests that a short-term diet that consists almost exclusively of oatmeal may help lower cholesterol levels, especially in people who have metabolic syndrome.
Plant Based Diet May Improve Heart Health, Lower Cancer, Kidney Disease Risk: Recent research suggests that a plant-based diet may help lower the risk of prostate cancer and heart disease. Other studies have shown that the Portfolio diet may help reduce the risk of death from heart disease. A new study found that following a plant-forward diet may help reduce the risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD). A plant-based diet focuses on foods that are primarily from plants. This is more than just fruits and vegetables; it includes nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains, and oils. Plant-based diets don’t necessarily mean you can’t ever eat meat or dairy. Following these eating patterns simply means you choose more foods derived from plant sources. Healthline
14 or More Alcoholic Drinks Per Week Could Raise Colorectal Cancer Risk: A recent study indicates that higher lifetime alcohol consumption may raise the risk of colorectal cancer. The findings show that heavy drinking is associated with the highest risk, particularly rectal cancer, and that former drinkers had a lower risk. The research suggests that lower lifetime alcohol consumption may help reduce the overall risk of developing cancer. CancerTrusted Source
This simple diet shift cut 330 calories a day without smaller meals: People who switch to a fully unprocessed diet don’t just eat differently—they eat smarter. Research from the University of Bristol shows that when people avoid ultra-processed foods, they naturally pile their plates with fruits and vegetables, eating over 50% more food by weight while still consuming hundreds fewer calories each day. This happens because whole foods trigger a kind of built-in “nutritional intelligence,” nudging people toward nutrient-rich, lower-calorie options. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition,
A 25-year study found an unexpected link between cheese and dementia: A massive Swedish study tracking nearly 28,000 people for 25 years found an unexpected link between full-fat dairy and brain health. Among adults without a genetic risk for Alzheimer’s, eating more full-fat cheese was associated with a noticeably lower risk of developing the disease, while higher cream intake was tied to reduced dementia risk overall. The findings challenge decades of low-fat dietary advice but come with important caveats. Neurology
Can Habitual Meat Intake Affect Risk for Flares in IBD? Among patients in self‑reported remission of ulcerative colitis (UC), habitual meat intake was associated with the risk for objective flares reported by those with treatment escalation and an increase in biomarker levels. Higher faecal calprotectin levels were associated with an increased risk for both patient-reported and objectively confirmed flares in those with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). published online on January 19, 2026, in Gut.
PREVENTION: Vitamins/Supplements
UCalgary study investigates the use of a common vitamin to treat the aggressive brain cancer glioblastoma Findings indicate vitamin B3 looks promising to help rearm a compromised immune system. Findings are published in the Journal of Neuro-Oncology
Dermatologists say collagen supplements aren’t the skin fix people expect: Collagen pills sound like a shortcut to younger skin, but solid evidence doesn’t back them up. Higher-quality studies show little benefit, and your body doesn’t absorb collagen in the way ads suggest. Some supplements may even pose safety concerns and lack proper testing. Experts recommend focusing on proven habits like sunscreen, retinoids, and a nutrient-rich diet instead. Science Daily
PREVENTION: Other
Hair Extensions May Contain Harsh Chemicals Linked to Breast, Uterine Cancer: A new study has found that many types of hair extensions contain chemicals linked to cancer. A chemical banned from boat paint because it’s too toxic for fish is allowed in products worn by millions of Black women The beauty industry has no federal safety standards, no testing requirements, despite mounting evidence of harm. All but two of the 43 hair extension products tested contained harmful chemicals linked to cancer, fibroids, hormone disruption, and metabolic disease. The Silent Spring Institute study, published on February 11 in Environment & Health, analyzed the chemical composition of 43 hair extension products and found nearly all products tested contained at least one cancer-causing chemical.
More Than a Third of All Cancer Cases Linked to Modifiable Risk Factors: Common lifestyle habits like smoking, drinking alcohol regularly, and avoiding exercise can increase cancer risk. New research found nearly 40% of new cancer cases could have been prevented due to these factors. The global study, published on February 3 in Nature Medicine, tracked rates of cancer diagnoses in 2022 that were caused by modifiable lifestyle or environmental factors. The most common cancers linked to these factors included lung, stomach, and liver cancers.
Fewer Cervical Cancer Screenings Needed for Females Vaccinated Against HPV: A new study from researchers in Norway suggests that due to the widespread uptake of HPV vaccines, the screening program for cervical cancer may be able to be updated. The authors suggest that females ages 12 to 24 who’ve received the HPV shot may only require cervical cancer screening every 15 to 25 years, or two to three times in their lifetimes. The findings were published on February 3 in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
Younger Males May Face Higher Heart Attack Risk, 7 Years Before Females: A recent study found that younger males develop a slight risk of cardiovascular disease seven years before females. The risk of coronary heart disease began to diverge between males and females around age 35. This earlier risk profile in males suggests that factors beyond high blood pressure and diabetes may be at play. Journal of the American Heart Association (JAHA)Trusted Source
To-Go Coffee Cups Release Thousands of Microplastics: How to Stay Safe: A new study found that heat influences the amount of microplastics released from disposable cups. The type of cup can also affect how much microplastic is leached into a beverage. Cups made of stainless steel or ceramic are your safest options. If you must use a disposable cup, paper cups coated with PHA are generally a safe option. Journal of Hazardous Materials: Plastics
Can brain training games actually reduce dementia risk? New study offers evidence: A new study published in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia: Translational Research and Clinical InterventionsTrusted Sourcehas found that older adults who participate in computer-based “cognitive speed training” may reduce their dementia risk for up to 20 years.
Viagra and shingles vaccine show surprising promise against Alzheimer’s: A major new study has spotlighted three familiar medicines that could take on an unexpected new role in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease — with a shingles vaccine emerging as the front-runner. After reviewing 80 existing drugs, an international panel of experts identified Zostavax, Viagra (sildenafil), and riluzole as the most promising candidates for repurposing. Alzheimer\'s Research
The Maternal Brain Advantage: Pregnancy, Breastfeeding Tied To Higher Cognitive Function For Postmenopausal Women: The findings, published this month in Alzheimer’s & Dementia, reveal associations that seem small on paper but could reshape how we think about women’s brain health. Each additional month a woman spent pregnant correlated with a 0.01-point higher score on global cognition tests later in life. Each month spent breastfeeding showed the same boost in overall cognitive function, plus an additional 0.02-point improvement in both verbal and visual memory. Tiny numbers, perhaps. But here’s the context: these effect sizes match what researchers see with well-established protective factors like not smoking and maintaining high physical activity. For a disease as stubbornly resistant to prevention as Alzheimer’s, that’s noteworthy.
TB, Chronic Bronchitis Tied to Lung Cancer in Never Smokers: A history of tuberculosis (TB) and a history of chronic bronchitis were associated with an increased risk for lung cancer in individuals who had never smoked, whereas asthma had a positive, nonsignificant association overall and a significant association in women. published online on January 11, 2026, in Chest.
Midlife PSA Predicts Long-Term Risk for Prostate Cancer: In a population-based cohort study, a single prostate-specific antigen (PSA) measurement in men aged 45-70 years effectively identified individuals with low risk for cancer. Men with PSA levels < 1.00 ng/mL (55.9% of the cohort) had a low cumulative incidence of prostate cancer (3.3%) over 20 years, whereas higher PSA levels were associated with a substantially greater incidence. Older age, higher PSA levels, and higher PSA density were associated with an increased risk of developing prostate cancer. published online in JAMA Network Open
A common painkiller may be quietly changing cancer risk: Ibuprofen may be doing more than easing aches and pains—it could also help reduce the risk of some cancers. Studies have linked regular use to lower rates of endometrial and bowel cancer, likely because the drug dampens inflammation that fuels tumor growth. Researchers have even found it can interfere with genes cancer cells rely on to survive. Still, experts warn that long-term use carries risks and shouldn’t replace proven prevention strategies. Science Daily
One simple daily change that could slash depression risk: Swapping just an hour of TV a day for something more active could significantly lower the risk of developing major depression—especially in middle age. A large Dutch study tracking more than 65,000 adults over four years found that replacing 60 minutes of TV with other activities cut depression risk by 11% overall, and by nearly 19% in middle-aged adults. The more time people reallocated—up to two hours—the greater the benefit, with risk dropping as much as 43% in midlife. European Psychiatry
TREATMENT
Most Statin Side Effects Are Not Caused by the Drug, Major Review Finds: Most statin side effects listed on drug packaging are not supported by strong evidence, a new study suggests. Out of 66 potential side effects, researchers only identified four that were linked to statin use. These four include: Abnormal liver transaminases — an indication that the liver is under stress; Other liver function abnormalities — signs that the liver may be impaired; Altered urinary composition — a possible indicator of kidney abnormalities; and Edema — fluid buildup, most commonly in the ankles, feet, and legs. The identified side effects are uncommon and manageable.Statins remain broadly safe and effective, despite persistent fears and misinformation. The LancetTrusted Source.
Metformin May Help Treat Age-Related Vision Loss, Prevent Blindness: A commonly prescribed medication to treat type 2 diabetes may also help older adults with age-related macular degeneration, according to a new study. Researchers said people with diabetes ages 50 and older who were taking metformin were 37% less likely to develop the intermediate stage of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which can lead to vision loss and blindness. The findings were published on February 2 in BMJ Open Ophthalmology.
Oral Semaglutide Lowers Heart Failure Risk in People with Type 2 Diabetes: Oral semaglutide reduced the number of significant heart failure-related events in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D), a new study has found. The largest benefit was observed in a particularly hard-to-treat subtype of the disease. JAMA Internal MedicineTrusted Source
Tirzepatide, Hormone Therapy May Aid Weight Loss After Menopause: A new study found that postmenopausal females who use hormone therapy in combination with tirzepatide experience greater weight loss compared to those who don’t. Tirzepatide (Zepbound) is an FDA-approved medication prescribed for weight loss. It’s also the active ingredient in the GLP-1 medication Mounjaro to treat type 2 diabetes. The findings could expand treatment possibilities for females experiencing obesity or obesity-related conditions after menopause. The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, & Women’s Health
Common Gout Medication May Help Lower Heart Attack, Stroke Risk: Researchers say that allopurinol and other drugs used to treat gout can help reduce heart attack and stroke risk. Experts say these medications help reduce inflammation, which can lower cardiovascular health risks. Diet can also be a key factor in the development of gout. Avoiding foods high in purines, such as red meat, can help lower risk. JAMA Internal MedicineTrusted Source.
Low Dose Aspirin Not Tied to Cancer, but May Raise Cancer-Related Death Risk: In a new study, researchers say aspirin should not be given to older adults as a cancer prevention strategy. They say that the results of their research indicate that a daily routine of low dose aspirin actually increased the risk of cancer-related mortality among adults 65 years and older during a 10-year study period. They added that the daily aspirin regimen did not impact the overall risk of cancer incidence. JAMA OncologyTrusted Source.
Hearing aids didn’t boost memory tests but dementia risk dropped: A long-term study of older adults with moderate hearing loss found that hearing aids did not lead to better performance on memory or thinking tests, but the story did not end there. Over seven years, people who were prescribed hearing aids were significantly less likely to develop dementia than those who were not. Neurology
Surgical Tweak Slashes Ovarian Cancer Risk Nearly 80%: In 2010, a team of Canadian researchers made British Columbia the first place in the world to offer something called opportunistic salpingectomy, OS for short. The concept is straightforward, almost absurdly so: when you’re already doing pelvic surgery, remove the fallopian tubes too. Keep the ovaries (they produce essential hormones), but take the tubes. The logic was simple. Scientists had discovered that most ovarian cancers don’t actually start in the ovaries. They begin in the fallopian tubes. Now, after more than a decade of follow-up, the numbers are in. And they’re remarkable. People who had their fallopian tubes removed during routine gynaecological surgery were 78 per cent less likely to develop serous ovarian cancer, the most common and lethal form of the disease, compared with those who had similar operations but kept their tubes. The findings, published today in JAMA Network Open, come from the Ovarian Cancer Observatory, an international collaboration led by researchers at the University of British Columbia.
A Single Dose of Short-Acting Psychedelic Rapidly Eases Major Depression: A single 10-minute intravenous infusion of the psychedelic dimethyltryptamine (DMT) with psychological support led to a statistically significant reduction in depressive symptoms. Results of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 2a study of adults with moderate-to-severe major depressive disorder (MDD). The antidepressant effects were observed as early as 1 week following the session and, in some cases, lasted for up to 3 months. The study was published online on February 16 in Nature Medicine.
OTHER
Healthgrades Names America’s Best Hospitals for 2026: On January 27, Healthgrades, a leading website for finding a doctor, announced the winners of its 2026 Best Hospitals Awards, recognizing the nation’s top-performing hospitals based on clinical outcomes. The annual awards highlight the top 1%, 2%, and 5% of hospitals nationwide.
Pediatricians Release Child Vaccine Recommendations That Break With CDC: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released an updated childhood vaccine schedule on January 27 that contrasts with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) controversial changes from earlier this month. The CDC reduced its universally recommended vaccines, moving six vaccinations into conditional categories. The AAP continues recommending all vaccines previously on the schedule. The AAP’s updated vaccine guidance marks a significant break in decades of collaboration with the CDC.
The Kindness Frequency Can Nudge People To Behave Less Selfishly: A new neurobiology, where researchers are finally uncovering why some of us are naturally kinder than our peers, indicates that the difference between a miser and a saint might not be a matter of moral character or upbringing, but a simple question of neural timing. A study of 44 patients used a technique called transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS). They beamed a specific frequency into the brain, forcing the frontal and parietal regions to fire in perfect sync. It’s a bit like forcing two distant instruments to play the same beat so they can finally find a harmony. The rhythm they chose was the “gamma” band—a high-frequency pulse that the brain uses when it’s deeply engaged in processing information. As the participants played hundreds of rounds of the Dictator Game, making over 500 decisions about whether to share or hoard their money, the researchers turned the dial. The results were striking. When the stimulation boosted the synchrony of those gamma waves, people became significantly more altruistic. They were more likely to offer more money to their partners, even when it meant they would walk away with less than the person they were helping.
How The 2024 Election Changed Who Wants A Gun: 1,530 adults surveyed in the two weeks before election day, then the same group questioned again in early January. This before-and-after snapshot revealed patterns that hadn’t shown up in previous election cycles. Some groups were more likely to say they wanted to buy a gun, carry one outside the home, or store firearms where they could grab them quickly. And crucially, they attributed these urges directly to the election results themselves. Black adults stood out in the data. Among those intending to purchase firearms after the election, 21.7% identified as Black, roughly double their representation (9.6%) among those not planning to buy. The statistical analysis went further, showing that identifying as Black was associated with increased urges to carry firearms in direct response to the election outcome. It’s a shift that echoes something from 2020, when firearm purchasing patterns changed dramatically during the COVID-19 pandemic and racial justice protests – though this time, respondents explicitly linked their intentions to the political environment. Liberal beliefs were associated with both greater urges to carry firearms and higher odds of storing them more accessibly because of the election results. For each step towards more liberal beliefs on the survey scale, individuals were 2.11 times more likely to have made their firearms quicker to access following Trump’s victory. The pattern suggests people who might feel threatened by the incoming administration’s policies were responding by changing how they think about guns. “These findings highlight that communities that feel directly threatened by the policies and actions of the second Trump administration are reporting a greater drive to purchase firearms, carry them outside their home, and store them in a way that allows quick access.”
Colorblind Patients Face 52% Higher Mortality From Bladder Cancer: Bladder cancer is the fourth most common cancer among men in the United States. Nearly 85,000 Americans received the diagnosis in 2025 alone. In the vast majority of cases, somewhere between eighty and ninety percent, the first sign arrives quietly: painless blood in the urine. Without pain. Without other warning. Just that telltale discoloration that sends people racing to seek help, unless you can’t see it. For patients with colorblindness, the practical implications are concrete. Get a urine test at every annual checkup. And perhaps ask the person you share your life with to notice what you cannot. To periodically check your urine for the presence of blood, a simple act of attention that could mean the difference between a treatable early-stage cancer and an aggressive late-stage disease. Nature Health
Depression may be the brain’s early warning sign of Parkinson’s or dementia: Depression in older adults may sometimes signal the early stages of Parkinson’s disease or Lewy body dementia. Researchers found that depression often appears years before diagnosis and remains elevated long afterward, unlike in other chronic illnesses. This suggests depression may reflect early brain changes rather than emotional distress alone. General Psychiatry
Menopause linked to grey matter loss in key brain regions: A major study suggests menopause is linked to changes in brain structure, mental health, and sleep. Brain scans revealed grey matter loss in areas tied to memory and emotional regulation, while many women reported increased anxiety, depression, and fatigue. Hormone therapy did not reverse these effects, though it may slow age-related declines in reaction speed. Researchers say menopause could represent an important turning point for brain health. Psychological Medicine
