PAIN
Pain supplement glucosamine linked to faster dementia progression: Οne popular supplement for osteoarthritis is glucosamine sulfateTrusted Source, which people take to alleviate pain and stiffness. According to one study, around 6-7% of people over the age of 70 in the United States are prescribed glucosamine to relieve symptoms. Many more buy it without prescription as a dietary supplement, despite there being little study evidenceTrusted Source for its efficacy. Now, a new study has found that glucosamine may speed the progression of dementia and hasten mortality, by enhancing a process in the brain that is overactive in people with Alzheimer’s disease. The study, which is published in Nature MetabolismTrusted Source, suggests that glucosamine may increase hyperglycosylation — a process that impairs the function of nerve cells in the brain.
Common dizziness drug class shows promise for treating vestibular migraine: A new study finds that a class of oral and intranasal medications known as gepants may be an effective and well-tolerated treatment for vestibular migraine (VM). Otolaryngology
At least two weather patterns increase headaches, University of Cincinnati study suggests: Two specific weather patterns were associated with a higher risk of new-onset headaches in the Northeastern region. One is an approaching cold front, or low-pressure system, with precipitation, which can occur in all seasons. The other is the Bermuda High, a high-pressure system that heavily dictates summer weather across the eastern half of the U.S. American Headache Society Annual Scientific Meeting
GLP-1 agonists linked to significantly lower long term risk of knee replacement: GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs, used for the treatment of diabetes, and more recently, weight loss, are associated with a significantly lower long term risk of knee replacement surgery as a result of osteoarthritis, finds an analysis of medical records data, published in the open access journal Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine.
Five minutes of prayer reduces pain and anxiety in primary care patients, randomized trial finds: A randomized controlled trial conducted at the University of Maryland School of Medicine has found that a five-minute session of proximal intercessory prayer (PIP) — in-person prayer offered by a trained volunteer — significantly reduced pain and anxiety in primary care patients compared to a music control group. The findings, published in the May/June 2026 issue of Annals of Family Medicine, suggest that proximal intercessory prayer may offer a practical, non-pharmacologic complement to conventional care, particularly for underserved populations.
Widely available drug combination is first effective treatment for Sjögren’s disease: A combination of two widely available anti-rheumatic drugs offers the first effective and affordable treatment for patients with Sjögren’s disease with systemic disease activity, according to new results from a clinical trial that was coordinated by UMC Utrecht. The study showed that treatment with leflunomide and hydroxychloroquine reduced disease activity in patients with moderate-to-severe disease, while maintaining a favorable safety profile. Lancet Rheumatology, published May 20, 2026
SMFM reaffirms acetaminophen as first-line medication for treating pain and fever during pregnancy:Acetaminophen remains the recommended first-line medication to treat pain and fever during pregnancy, according to an updated statement from the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM). A comprehensive review of the available scientific evidence does not establish a causal relationship between acetaminophen taken during pregnancy and an increased risk of autism spectrum disorders and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, according to SMFM. SMFM’s statement is based on a thorough review of recent studies and earlier research on acetaminophen during pregnancy. The newest studies vary in their findings on the potential association between prenatal acetaminophen exposure and risk of childhood neurobehavioral issues and have significant limitations in their study design.
In middle-aged and older adults, migraine with aura associated with higher stroke risk: Migraine with aura was associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke in middle-aged and older people, according to a study published May 20, 2026, in Neurology®Open Access Migraine without aura was not associated with an increased risk. The study does not prove that migraine with aura causes an increased risk of stroke, it only shows an association.
Low vitamin D levels linked to more pain after breast cancer surgery: Vitamin D deficiency is associated with more moderate to severe pain following breast cancer surgery and an increased consumption of opioid drugs, finds research published online in the journal Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine. Breast cancer patients with low levels of vitamin D (below 30 nmol/L) may benefit from taking supplements before undergoing a radical mastectomy, suggest researchers.
Nationwide study finds reduced triptan use for migraine one year after semaglutide initiation for weight loss among women: A nationwide study from Denmark presented at this year’s European Congress on Obesity (ECO2026) in Istanbul, Turkey, shows that use of semaglutide (Wegovy) for weight management is associated with a 7% reduction in the use of triptan-class drugs for treatment in migraine one year after initiation. A sex-specific effect was observed, with women demonstrating an 8% reduction and men showing no significant change.
Scientists discover simple way to relieve arthritis pain without pills or surgery: A surprisingly simple walking tweak may offer new hope for millions living with knee osteoarthritis. In a year-long clinical trial, researchers found that slightly changing the angle of a person’s foot while walking reduced knee pain as effectively as common medications — and even slowed cartilage damage inside the joint. The Lancet Rheumatology
New procedure delivers lasting knee arthritis pain relief without surgery: A minimally invasive treatment that blocks inflammation-driving blood vessels in the knee provided significant pain relief and improved function for osteoarthritis patients, with benefits lasting at least a year. The procedure was safe, highly successful, and could offer a new alternative for people seeking relief before considering knee replacement. The treatment, known as genicular artery embolization (GAE), is an emerging nonsurgical procedure designed to target abnormal blood vessels that develop around arthritic knee joints. These excess vessels are believed to contribute to ongoing inflammation and pain. During the procedure, an interventional radiologist uses a thin catheter to reach the affected blood vessels and injects tiny particles that block blood flow to them. By shutting down these abnormal vessels, the treatment aims to reduce inflammation and relieve pain without surgery. The prospective single-center study enrolled 194 patients with osteoarthritis-related knee pain, including 114 women and 80 men. All participants had failed to achieve adequate relief after at least three months of conservative treatment, including physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and intra-articular injections. Radiology
COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE
Psilocybin Effective for Resistant Depression in Real-World Trial: Psilocybin therapy showed significant improvement in depressive symptoms for treatment-resistant depression patients in real-world settings. Despite some adverse effects, the study supports its feasibility, though optimal dosing remains unclear. The study was published online on June 1 in The Lancet Regional Health.
Large psilocybin dose briefly improved dementia in case study: A new case study describes the reversal of symptoms in a woman with advanced Alzheimer’s disease after taking magic mushrooms. The findings hint that psilocybin may temporarily relieve symptoms, at least for some people. However, experts call for caution and larger studies. This is not an open-and-shut case, and the paper only outlines one patient’s story. Frontiers in Neuroscience
Online cognitive behavioral therapy: An accessible solution for insomnia and anxiety in older adults: Cognitive behavioural therapies for insomnia (CBT-I) are increasingly being delivered online in order to improve accessibility. However, although insomnia and anxiety frequently occur together in older adults, few interventions address both conditions simultaneously. A new digital platform developed by researchers at the Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal (CRIUGM), in collaboration with Concordia University, Université Laval and the Université de Montréal, aims to fill that gap. The results of a clinical trial, published in the journal Age and Ageing, highlight the feasibility and effectiveness of the program, with promising applications for improving mental health and sleep among older adults.
FDA APPROVALS
• Bemotrizinol as a new sunscreen ingredient, the first since 1999, offering broad-spectrum UV protection with low skin absorption. This innovation may enhance sunscreen options in the US by July 2026.
• Baxdrostat (Baxfendy, AstraZeneca) to lower blood pressure (BP) in combination with other antihypertensives in patients with uncontrolled hypertension.
• Afrezza, an inhaled insulin for children and adolescents
• The nonprescription sale of the Stelo Glucose Biosensor System manufactured by Dexcom for children ages 2 to 18 years.
• Utebzi to treat complicated urinary tract infections
• Ambeivist to detect and visualize lesions with abnormal vascularity, in conjunction with MRI
• Cypsedo to induce general anesthesia in adults undergoing surgery
• Xocova to use as post exposure prophylaxis of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) following contact with an individual who has COVID-19
• zaynich to treat complicated urinary tract infections, including pyelonephritis, caused by designated susceptible microorganisms
• Decnupaz to treat adults with blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm
• Hepcludex to treat chronic hepatitis delta virus infection in adults without cirrhosis or with compensated cirrhosis
• Welireg with pembrolizumab for renal cell cancer
• Rextovy an over the counter intranasal naloxone product for the emergency treatment of opioid overdose
PREVENTION: Exercise
Cycling Linked to Higher Arrhythmia Risk in Middle-Aged Men: Middle-aged men who logged more hours of lifetime endurance exercise were more likely to report atrial fibrillation (AF) or atrial flutter, with cycling independently associated with higher odds of self-reporting either condition. published online on May 22, 2026, in European Heart Journal Open
Cycling linked to improved brain health and well-being in new review of 87 studies: A new peer-reviewed publication published in Frontiers in Sports and Active Living, highlights bicycling as a powerful, accessible tool for improving brain health and overall well-being. The review, carried out by researchers from Outride, University of Oklahoma, and Loma Linda University, synthesizes findings from 87 studies of cycling interventions across 19 countries, demonstrating that cycling has many positive impacts on psychological, social, affective, and cognitive outcomes, particularly in outdoor and multi-session programs.
Just 2 Hours of Strength Training a Week May Help You Live Longer: A new study found that 90–120 minutes of strength training each week could help promote longevity.
Around 1.5 to 2 hours of weekly strength training lowered the risk of death from cardiovascular and neurological diseases, and death from any cause. The findings add to the known health benefits of strength training, including bone health, improved balance, and weight management. The 30-year study, published on June 2 in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, found no additional benefits from more than 120 minutes of strength training. Strength training included exercises using weights or body weight, such as push-ups, lunges, and squats.
How Much Exercise Do You Need to Lower Your Risk of Cardiovascular Disease? A new study suggests that adults should aim for up to 4 times the current recommended amount of aerobic exercise per week for optimal heart health. The researchers say that adults should engage in aerobic exercise for 560–610 minutes per week to achieve a significant reduction in the risk of heart attack and stroke. They note that less fit adults may need to exercise more to achieve the same cardiovascular benefits. The results of the study were published on May 19 in published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.
Pregnant women may reduce key health risk through less sitting, more light exercise: Recommendations are: Reduce sedentary time to fewer than eight hours each day. Engage in light physical activity for at least seven hours each day. Engage in approximately 22 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity, such as a brisk walk, each day. Get nearly nine hours of sleep each night. British Journal of Sports Medicine.
WVU study shows pregnant women who sit less and move more have fewer adverse outcomes: “The big finding was that women who were sitting for over 10 hours a day were developing twice as many adverse pregnancy outcomes as women who were sitting for shorter amounts of time,” “We were expecting to find that more sitting may be less healthy in pregnancy, but the magnitude of extra risk was bigger than we thought it would be. Our study supports the idea that a daily activity pattern with lots of prolonged sitting should be discouraged during pregnancy.” The study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, shows that two in five women who sat for 10 or more hours a day had an adverse pregnancy outcome, while only one in five women who sat approximately seven hours a day experienced an adverse pregnancy outcome.
Monash research suggests secret to healthy ageing could be hiding in skeletal muscle: Physical activity is one of the most powerful ways to combat biological ageing, which is the way our organs and tissue decline as we get older. The new research, published today in Science Advances, has used preclinical models to uncover the key role a protein found in skeletal muscle, NOX4, plays in this process. Physical activity and NOX4 naturally declines as we age, making it more difficult to achieve the health and anti-ageing benefits of exercise. The research shows lower levels of NOX4 are associated with muscle wasting and frailty, while restored levels are linked to better regulated metabolism and improved muscle mass and strength.
Four minutes of daily resistance training can quadruple fitness in older adults: Just four minutes of daily strengthening exercise dramatically increases key factors in quality of life for aging adults, according to a new study led by researchers at Penn State College of Medicine. Results published in PLOS One showed that strength — which impacts fall risk, longevity, independent living and more — significantly improved for adults aged 65 and older in as little as 12 weeks.
Activity and mood closely linked, study finds: The study analyzed more than 8,000 participants and 320,000 mood ratings across 67 datasets. Researchers found that people felt happier, more energetic and more positive shortly after being more active than usual. The pattern also worked in reverse: when people felt better than usual, they were more likely to be physically active soon afterward.
Yes, Stair Climbing, Housework Count as Exercise. They Can Even Boost Your Mood: A large-scale study found that even 5 to 10 minutes of physical activity can improve energy levels and mood. The findings, recently published inNature Human BehaviorTrusted Source, emphasize the value of light-intensity movement. Everyday activities, such as household chores, taking the stairs, or going for a short walk, can have immediate positive effects on well-being. The researchers identified a bidirectional connection between movement and mood. Translation: Movement boosts your mood, which in turn, only makes you want to move more.
Smartphone Apps, Wearables Boost Activity in People With Cardiovascular Disease: Smartphones and wearable devices are effective at increasing physical activity among patients with cardiovascular disease, according to research published online June 17 in the Journal of the American Heart Association. Abstract/Full Text
PREVENTION: Sleep
Researchers harness the body’s internal clock to improve stroke recovery: A new study from scientists at the University of Rochester Medicine suggests that reinforcing the body's natural daily rhythms to improve sleep could help the brain recover after a stroke, pointing to a potential new strategy to improve brain waste clearance and outcomes long after the initial injury. The research, which was published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, found that interventions designed to reinforce the body's natural circadian rhythms improved recovery in mouse models of stroke. The benefits were accompanied by improvements in the glymphatic system—the brain's waste-clearing network—and reductions in inflammatory molecules that can linger in the brain after a stroke.
Long naps may increase the risk of chronic liver disease in people with diabetes: People with type 2 diabetes who nap longer than 30 minutes every day, regardless of their sleep patterns at night, increase their risk of developing metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), according to a study being presented Monday at ENDO 2026, the Endocrine Society’s annual meeting in Chicago, Ill.
PREVENTION: Diet
Food Additives: Is New Evidence Raising Safety Questions? French researchers reported in three recent studies that certain food colorings may be associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and cancer, while several preservatives have been linked to a higher risk of hypertensionand cardiovascular disease. These additives are common ingredients in ultraprocessed foods, making the findings relevant to a large share of the population.
More Than 1 Drink a Day Linked to Health Risks, Clashing With U.S. Guidelines: A major new analysis suggests alcohol-related health risks may begin at lower levels of drinking. Researchers found no clear health benefit from low-level alcohol consumption and concluded that both men and women should limit intake to no more than 1 drink per day. The study concludes that the risk of alcohol-related death begins at lower levels of consumption than previously suggested by federal guidelines. The research, published on June 8 in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs, estimated that the risk of death and other health risks begins with relatively small quantities. Researchers concluded that current U.S. alcohol guidance should recommend no more than 1 drink per day for both males and females. The findings add to growing evidence that even moderate or socially accepted levels of drinking may carry long-term health risks, making individualized conversations about alcohol use increasingly important.
Drinking Alcohol May Lead to Ultra-Processed Food Cravings. Here’s Why: Drinking alcohol may cause people to over-consume savory ultra-processed foods.
Researchers at the University of Sydney found that alcohol consumption may amplify a biological drive for salty, umami-flavored foods. The findings were recently published in Obesity ReviewsTrusted Source.
Drinking Alcohol Can Raise Your Risk of These 20 Health Conditions: A recent study found an association between alcohol consumption and 20 different health outcomes. The findings show that any amount of alcohol may increase the risk for various cancers. The researchers noted that the effects of alcohol can vary based on factors like sex, age, drinking patterns, and other behavioral risk factors. The study found that there is no evidence to support sex-specific thresholds on alcohol guidelines. Nature HealthTrusted Source,
Flavanol-Rich Fruits, Veggies May Be Best for Heart Health: Research has found that eating around 500 mg of flavanols per day can reduce your risk of death from cardiovascular disease. Not all fruits and vegetables are equal. Some have higher levels of flavanols than others. Fruit and veg with the highest flavanols include: plums, cranberries, blackberries, green tea, broad or fava beans, cherries, apples with skin, strawberries, blue berries, pinto beans. Healthline
An Avocado a Day May Keep Diabetes, Hypertension, and Obesity at Bay: Research suggests that females who eat 30–38 grams of avocado per day may have a lower risk of diabetes. A recent study also found that eating one avocado and 1 cup of mango each day may help lower blood pressure in people with prediabetes. A new study found that eating fresh avocado each day may help improve your body’s blood sugar response, lower diabetes risk, and reduce cardiometabolic risks. Healthline
Eating More Watermelon May Help Prevent Heart Disease: Research shows that watermelon may help improve heart health and lower your risk of heart disease.
It also shows that this fruit may aid in overall nutrient intake for both adults and children. Individuals who consume more watermelon may have a greater intake of essential nutrients, including fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. Watermelon may also help improve hydration.
Can fasting fight gum disease? Scientists find surprising link: A low-calorie fasting-style diet significantly reduced inflammation linked to gum disease in a small clinical study. The findings suggest that what people eat may influence gum health almost as much as what they do with a toothbrush. Journal of Clinical Periodontology
Tea can improve your health and longevity, but the way you drink it matters: The review confirms that tea, particularly green tea, plays a crucial role in preventing cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), obesity, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Tea’s neuroprotective effects, ability to reduce muscle loss in seniors, and its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities further highlight its potential health-promoting properties. However, the study also identifies potential health concerns, particularly with bottled and bubble teas, which may contain harmful additives like artificial sweeteners and preservatives. A study published in Beverage Plant Research
Scientists say guava juice could make iron supplements work better: Researchers found that drinking guava juice may significantly improve anemia by helping the body absorb iron more efficiently. In a review of 17 studies, women and teenage girls who consumed guava juice — especially with iron supplements — experienced noticeable increases in hemoglobin levels. Since guava contains far more vitamin C than oranges, scientists believe it could become a simple, affordable nutrition tool in regions where anemia is widespread. BMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health
Surprising research reveals why you shouldn't add bananas to your smoothies: Researchers found that adding bananas to berry smoothies can dramatically reduce the body’s ability to absorb healthy flavanols. The surprising discovery shows that even simple food combinations can change how much nutrition your body actually gets. Materials provided by University of California – Davis
Can’t stick to a diet? Try intermittent fasting for weight loss: An Adelaide University study focusing on the psychological aspects of both intermittent fasting and calorie restriction, compared the effects both diets had on eating behaviours, mood, sleep and quality of life. Although both diets led to similar amounts of weight loss, those on the fasting diet didn’t feel as though they needed to make major changes to their eating behaviours – such as monitoring overeating or counting calories - in order to lose weight. This contrasts with the calorie restriction diet, where participants reported consciously having to think about restricting their food intake and avoiding overeating. That improved control accounted for 15% of their weight loss. Clinical Nutrition,
Plant-forward and low-insulinemic diets may help reduce weight gain and obesity risk during menopause, long-term study finds: A large long-term study of nearly 40,000 women has found that women who eat more plant-based, low-insulinemic foods may gain less weight and have a much lower risk of developing obesity during the years around menopause. A low-insulinemic diet refers to a diet that is less likely to cause repeated spikes in insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar and fat storage. Published in JAMA Network Open, the study analysed data from 38,283 women enrolled in the Nurses’ Health Study II from 1989 to 2019, focusing on approximately 12 years around menopause.
Cows v plants: which milk delivers the greatest health benefits: New research at Edith Cowan University (ECU) has shed new light on the growing debate between cow’s milk and plant-based alternatives. Results of the study suggest that cow’s milk has the edge over plant-based alternatives when it comes to bone strength and nutrient absorption. The review by ECU’s Nutrition and Health Innovation Research Institute examines the “milk matrix” - the natural structure of milk that brings together nutrients, fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals and bioactive compounds. “Milk is more than just calcium, protein and fat - it’s a complex whole food, and how its nutrients are packaged together is more important than initially thought,” Associate Professor Therese O'Sullivan said. Milk contains more than 100 nutrients and bioactive substances, arranged in a unique physical structure. “Exploring the dairy milk matrix beyond isolated nutrients – a narrative review”
PREVENTION: Vitamins/Supplements
Natural Supplements Linked to Rising Cases of Serious Liver Injury: Herbal and dietary supplements (HDS) marketed for wellness, weight loss, inflammation, and energy boosting are increasingly being linked to severe liver injury, hepatologists warned here at the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) Congress 2026.
Urinary Symptoms in Men: Do Herbs Like Saw Palmetto Help? Herbal remedies like saw palmetto and beta-sitosterol may offer modest relief for mild-to-moderate lower urinary tract symptoms in men, but their effectiveness is inconsistent and less than pharmacologic treatments. Comprehensive evaluation and realistic expectations are essential. Medscape
Vitamin C may help preserve brain gray matter volume as we age: As our body naturally ages, so does our brain, causing structural and connectivity changes. Previous research shows that consuming certain nutrients, like vitamin C, may assist with healthy brain aging. A new study found having low levels of vitamin C in blood plasma is correlated with a lower brain gray matter volume and connectivity during aging. PLOS OneTrusted Source
Millions take calcium and vitamin D for stronger bones. A major review finds little benefit: For years, calcium and vitamin D supplements have been promoted as a simple way for older adults to protect their bones and prevent falls. But a massive review of nearly 154,000 people found that calcium, vitamin D, or a combination of both provided little to no meaningful protection against fractures or falls for most older adults. BMJ
This popular brain supplement was linked to shorter lifespans in men: A large-scale study suggests that men with higher levels of the amino acid tyrosine may have shorter lifespans, potentially losing close to a year of life expectancy. The finding is especially intriguing because tyrosine is commonly associated with brain health and is often used in supplements aimed at boosting focus and performance. Aging
Ancient Chinese medicine could transform hair loss treatment: A traditional Chinese medicinal root used for over a thousand years is attracting new scientific attention for its potential to combat hair loss. Studies suggest Polygonum multiflorum can block harmful hormones, activate hair-growth signals, protect follicles, and boost blood flow to the scalp. Researchers say the herb’s effects align remarkably well with both ancient descriptions and modern hair biology. Journal of Holistic Integrative Pharmacy
The supplements older adults actually need and the ones they don't: Supplements are often marketed as shortcuts to better health, but for many older adults, the real issue is whether they have a specific deficiency. Vitamins like B12 and D can play an important role when levels are low, while protein may be one of the most overlooked nutrients for maintaining strength and independence. More isn’t always better, though—some supplements can cause harm or interact with medications. The Conversation
Scientists are raising new questions about vitamin B12 and cancer: Vitamin B12 has long been seen as a health hero, helping the body make red blood cells, repair DNA, and keep nerves functioning properly. But scientists are discovering that the story may be more complicated than simply “more is better.” While too little B12 can damage DNA and raise cancer risk, some studies suggest that extremely high levels — especially from long-term high-dose supplements — may also be linked to certain cancers or poorer outcomes in cancer patients. The Conversation
Scientists warn popular vitamin D supplement may have a “previously unknown” downside: A surprising study suggests vitamin D2 supplements may reduce the body’s levels of vitamin D3 — the more effective form of vitamin D. Researchers found D3 not only boosts vitamin D status more efficiently, but may also play a unique role in helping the immune system fight off viruses and bacteria. The discovery is prompting scientists to rethink whether D3 should become the preferred choice for supplementation. Nutrition Reviews
A daily probiotic may help relieve depression and anxiety: A small clinical trial suggests that probiotics may offer a surprising mental health boost for older adults with depression. Seniors who took a daily probiotic alongside their regular antidepressant treatment experienced slightly greater improvements in depression and anxiety symptoms than those who received a placebo. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society
PREVENTION: Other
The Bare Minimum You Need to Do to Add a Year to Your Life: Minimal lifestyle changes, like adding 5 minutes of sleep, 2 minutes of moderate activity, and half a serving of vegetables daily, can extend life by a year, highlighting the power of small, combined health improvements. In 2025, Stamatakis gained notice with a Nature Communications paper that showed each dose of 60 seconds of daily vigorous exercise could add years to lifespan and reduce the risk for cardiometabolic disease and cancer. Now, drawing from UK Biobank data, his team’s latest findings show a synergistic effect that “argues against an all-or-nothing approach,” Stamatakis said. “If a patient is struggling to make a large change in one area, it may still be worthwhile to pursue smaller gains across several domains at once.”
Diet, weight loss, and 150 minutes of exercise may protect against chronic diseases in prediabetes: A new study has found that, in a group of adults with prediabetes, lifestyle modifications were more effective at preventing multiple chronic conditions, including type 2 diabetes, than metformin or placebo. JAMATrusted Source
Colorectal Cancer Screening Guidelines Include New Alternative to Colonoscopy: The American Cancer Society (ACS) has updated its guidelinesTrusted Source for colorectal cancer screening to include new blood-based and at-home stool tests. The new blood test screens for tumor DNA, while the at-home tests look for DNA, RNA, and blood markers in stool samples. The updated guidelines still retain ACS recommendations for starting colorectal cancer screening at age 45 and having colonoscopies done every 10 years for people who are at average risk of colorectal cancer.
Reversing prediabetes cuts risk of deadly heart problems by 58%: Bringing blood sugar levels back to normal may dramatically reduce the danger posed by prediabetes. Researchers found that people who reversed prediabetes cut their risk of cardiovascular death or hospitalization for heart failure by 58% and lowered their chances of major heart problems such as heart attacks and strokes by 42%. The benefits lasted for decades and were seen across large long-term studies in both the U.S. and China. The Lancet Diabetes
Your brain can keep improving into your 90s, study finds: A three-year study of nearly 4,000 adults ranging from age 19 to 94 found that brain health can improve at any age, challenging the common belief that mental sharpness must decline as we get older. Participants spent just a few minutes a day on brain-training activities, and researchers found measurable gains across multiple aspects of brain health, including thinking clarity, emotional well-being, and sense of purpose. Scientific Reports
TREATMENT
Older Drug Reprograms White Blood Cells, Improves Blood Sugar in Type 1 Diabetes: BCG immunotherapy reprograms white blood cells, significantly improving blood sugar control in type 1 diabetes patients, even without a functioning pancreas. This decades-old treatment reduces insulin use and normalizes blood sugar levels. Reuters Health
Fecal Transplant Curbs Alcohol Cravings: Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) significantly improved alcohol abstinence and reduced relapse rates in patients with alcohol-associated cirrhosis. The study suggests modifying the gut microbiome may reduce alcohol cravings, offering a novel therapeutic approach. European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) Congress 2026.
GLP-1s Tied to Musculoskeletal Benefits in Obesity: In adults with obesity and without diabetes, using GLP-1s vs other antiobesity medications was significantly associated with a decreased risk for osteoporosis, major osteoporotic fractures, degenerative disk disorders, and osteoarthritis. published online in Obesity.
Oral GLP-1 Orforglipron Performs Well in Phase 3 T2D Trials: Orforglipron, an oral GLP-1 receptor agonist, demonstrated superior A1c reduction and weight loss in type 2 diabetes patients compared to dapagliflozin and oral semaglutide, despite a slightly worse tolerability profile, according to phase 3 trials. American Diabetes Association (ADA) 2026 Scientific Sessions.
GLP-1 RAs May Independently Boost Testosterone Levels: Patients treated with a GLP-1 receptor agonist for weight loss showed a significant increase in both total testosterone (TT) and free testosterone (FT), according to new data presented at the American Urological Association (AUA) 2026 Annual Meeting.
Retatrutide Data Show Dramatic Weight Loss, Other Benefits: The investigational triple GLP-1/GIP/glucagon receptor agonist retatrutide produced significant weight loss and A1c reduction in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D), according to full data from the TRANSCEND-T2D-1 trial. And in people with obesity without T2D, the drug led to significant weight loss and improvements in osteoarthritis knee pain and obstructive sleep apnea, further results from the TRIUMPH-1 trial showed. Improvements in cardiovascular risk factors were seen in both trials. Both studies were presented here at the American Diabetes Association (ADA) 2026 Scientific Sessions, and results from TRANSCEND-T2D-1 were simultaneously published in The Lancet.
Survodutide weight-loss drug may reduce harmful fat while preserving muscle: In the phase 3 SYNCHRONIZE-1 trial, participants with obesity or overweight treated with Survodutide achieved up to 16.6% mean weight loss over 76 weeks. New analyses showed Survodutide reduced visceral fat by up to 34% and liver fat by up to 63.1%, suggesting benefits beyond overall weight reduction. The majority of weight loss came from fat mass, with analyses indicating that lean body mass was largely maintained.
In people with obesity or overweight and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), around 60% of participants achieved normalization of liver fat levels. 2026 American Diabetes Association (ADA) Scientific Sessions
Solutions Emerging for Post-GLP-1 Weight Regain: Patients discontinuing GLP-1 treatments often regain weight rapidly, but emerging strategies like endoscopic procedures and new oral medications show promise in maintaining weight loss. These alternatives may offer cost-effective, long-term solutions. Medscape
Weight loss drugs slash risk of 4 types of cancer by 50% or more, study finds: Between December 2014 and June 2025, 38% of study participants received a GLP-1 prescription, and the remaining 62% received diet and exercise counseling. At the study’s conclusion, researchers found that participants who took GLP-1 medications containing semaglutide or tirzepatide had a 41% decrease in their overall risk of developing an obesity-related cancer. “A 41% reduction across more than 229,000 patients is not a small signal,” Kamat said. “That is the kind of number that, in any other context, would already be driving clinical guidelines.” Even higher cancer risk reductions were found in specific cancers, including a 58% lower risk of endometrial cancer.
GLP-1s Like Ozempic, Wegovy Linked to Surprising Drop in Violent Behavior: A new study found that GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy may also help reduce violent behavior among adults. The researchers found that higher levels of alcohol use and impulsivity were associated with violent behavior overall. However, the behaviors were weaker among GLP-1 users. The results were published on June 17 in CriminologyTrusted Source.
Can Bariatric Surgery Benefit Older Adults With Obesity? Metabolic-bariatric surgery (MBS) in patients aged 65 years or older resulted in long-term meaningful weight loss and remission of obesity-related conditions, although complication rates of about 8% were noted. published online on May 22, 2026, in Obesity Surgery.
Drug Combo May Be a Better Choice for Some Men With BPH: Men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) may benefit from a combination of tamsulosin and mirabegron, according to new research presented at the American Urological Association (AUA) 2026 Annual Meeting.
Upping Fluids After Kidney Stones Helps Prevent Recurrence Even When Not Hitting Goals, Analysis Finds: Increasing fluid intake after kidney stones reduces recurrence risk, even if urine output goals aren't met. Patients boosting urine volume by 438 mL daily saw a 24% lower recurrence risk, highlighting fluid intake's importance. American Urological Association (AUA) 2026 Annual Meeting.
Cooling Vest May Reduce Body Fat in Obesity: Daily cold exposure using cooling vests for 2 hours each morning over 6 weeks reduced body weight and body fat mass in adults with overweight or obesity. The intervention improved thermal comfort and cold-induced carbohydrate oxidation while reducing cold perception over time. 33rd European Congress on Obesity (ECO) 2026.
Can Fasting Around Chemo Improve Ovarian Cancer Outcomes? Fasting around chemotherapy may enhance treatment response and progression-free survival in advanced ovarian cancer patients, according to a small phase 2 trial. The approach is simple, cost-effective, and warrants further research for validation. The findings, reported at a press briefing ahead the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) 2026, hint at a straightforward measure to potentially improve patients’ outcomes.
Groundbreaking New Drug Nearly Doubles Pancreatic Cancer Survival: In a phase 3 clinical trial, the drug daraxonrasib significantly improved survival rates of participants with pancreatic cancer who had previously been treated with chemotherapy.
The researchers found that daraxonrasib reduced the overall risk of death by 60% compared with people with advanced pancreatic cancer who were treated with chemotherapy. The medication also helped shrink or eliminate tumors among participants in the trial. The findings were recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine and presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) 2026 annual meeting from May 29 to June 2 in Chicago, IL.
Menopause hormone therapy slashes risk of low bone density, new data shows: The researchers found that women taking menopausal hormone therapy had a 69% lower risk of low bone mineral density than those not using hormone replacement. ENDO 2026
Common heart drug taken by millions found useless — and possibly dangerous: A massive international study could upend 40 years of heart attack treatment. Researchers found that beta blockers—routinely prescribed after uncomplicated heart attacks—offered no real benefit for patients whose heart function remained normal, despite being given to millions worldwide. Even more surprising, women taking the drugs faced a higher risk of death, repeat heart attack, or hospitalization for heart failure compared to women who didn’t receive them. The New England Journal of Medicine
PFS Improved With Talquetamab in Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma: Among patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who had previously received at least one line of therapy, talquetamab plus daratumumab and pomalidomide (Tal-DP) and talquetamab plus daratumumab (Tal-D) yield longer progression-free survival than daratumumab plus pomalidomide and dexamethasone (DPd), according to a study published online June 13 in the New England Journal of Medicine.
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COVID History May Prompt New Allergies: A history of SARS-CoV-2infection significantly increased the risk of developing six allergic conditions, based on data from more than 760,000 adults and children. In a new study published in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, the researchers assessed data from the TRICARE Management Activity’s Military Health System Data Repository, a US Department of Defense healthcare claims database, from July 2018 to December 2022 that included inpatient and outpatient medical records, COVID lab results, and dispensed prescriptions.
Measles, Whooping Cough Rising Due to Low Vaccination Rates: Doctors are reporting what they describe as an alarming rise in a variety of serious illnesses due to declining vaccination rates. Measles is a significant concern amid ongoing outbreaks in the United States, but concerns about whooping cough, rotavirus, and other diseases are also mounting. Children who aren’t vaccinated appear to be bearing the brunt of these illnesses, but officials also note an increase in unvaccinated adults requiring hospitalization, including some who refuse tetanus shots and blood transfusions. The news comes a week after President Donald Trump signed an executive order reaffirming an assessment by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that aligns “the United States’ childhood vaccine practices with scientific evidence and best practices from peer, developed countries.” Healthline
Beer, Body Scent May Make You a Mosquito Magnet. Can DEET Help?
Research shows that mosquitoes may be more attracted to some people than others.
A 2026 preprint study found that mosquitoes are also more attracted to those who drink beer compared to those who don’t. Other recent studiesTrusted Source have found that mosquitoes are attracted to the carbon dioxide (CO2) humans exhale. Older studies suggest that mosquitoes may be attracted to chemical odors emitted by your skin. DEET has long been considered the gold standard repellent for protection against mosquito bites. However, a new study found that mosquitoes may have learned how to associate DEET with food and even become attracted to it. Of course, this doesn’t mean you should stop using DEET altogether. Any protection against mosquitoes is better than none at all.
Only 20% of Sunscreens Meet Safety Standards. What to Know Before You Buy: Only about 20% of sunscreens meet leading safety and efficacy standards, according to a recent report from the Environmental Working Group (EWG). Mineral sunscreens are generally considered safer, but the best sunscreen is one you use consistently and reapply regularly. Broad-spectrum SPF 30 to 50, proper application, and regular reapplication are the keys to effective sun protection. Healthline
It matters what liquid you take your medication with: Some alkaline mineral and medicinal waters may weaken the enteric coating of medications within just a few minutes, potentially reducing their effectiveness, according to a new study by Semmelweis University. The study, published in Pharmaceutics, found that if the active ingredient is released too early in the stomach rather than in the intestinal tract, it may reduce – and, in extreme cases, even eliminate – the effectiveness of certain anti-reflux, gastroprotective, psychiatric, or anti-inflammatory pain-relief medications. Alkaline bottled waters with high mineral content caused the greatest changes in the protective coating surrounding the active ingredient-loaded particles
ACOG Issues Vaccine Schedule for Pregnant, Lactating, Postpartum Individuals: The American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG) has published a simplified immunization schedule for pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum individuals that it said represents the best evidence for four routinely recommended vaccines. “ACOG has made the decision to formally release its own immunization schedule to provide and communicate clear evidence-based guidance and to address the growing vaccine misinformation that is circulating,” said Christopher Zahn, MD, chief of clinical practice and health equity and quality at the organization, in a briefing with reporters. The new ACOG schedule is endorsed by 13 medical societies and health organizations, and, for the first time, differs from recommendations issued by the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) for use during pregnancy.
New guideline highlights obesity’s central role in heart, kidney, and metabolic disease: Now, the first-ever clinical guideline on CKM syndrome from the AHA and the American College of Cardiology (ACC), published in CirculationTrusted Source, highlights the role of excess weight, positioning it as a key driver of Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic (CKM) syndromerather than simply a risk factor.
Scientists thought brain inflammation was driving long COVID but the scans told a different story: A new brain imaging study has found no evidence of widespread brain inflammation in patients suffering from prolonged symptoms after COVID-19 infection. Instead, the most severe long COVID symptoms were associated with increased brain activity in regions involved in mood and emotion. Journal of Neurology
