Health
Sepsis a top killer in US behind heart disease, cancer: What to know, how to avoid the condition
“Real Housewives of Orange County” star Vicki Gunvalson, 62, is sharing her recent health scare after she was hospitalized with sepsis, a potentially deadly disease that results from the body’s response to an infection.
“This entire health scare came unannounced — with no warning,” Gunvalson told Fox News Digital.
As Sepsis Awareness Month kicks off this September, Gunvalson’s timely story is helping to raise awareness of the illness.
‘REAL HOUSEWIVES’ STAR DETAILS ‘DEADLY’ INFECTION SHE BATTLED THAT HAD ’10 TO 20 PERCENT SURVIVAL’ RATE
“Sepsis awareness can and does save lives, yet only 65% of American adults have ever heard of it,” Selena A. Gilles, clinical professor and associate dean at New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing, told Fox News Digital.
Gilles is on the advisory board of the Sepsis Alliance, a California-based organization that works across the country to decrease suffering from sepsis.
Sepsis kills 350,000 American adults each year and is a leading cause of death in U.S. hospitals, statistics show. (iStock)
“Prompt recognition and treatment can be of great importance in preventing significant illness and even mortality,” Dr. Aaron Glatt, chief of infectious diseases at Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital on Long Island, New York, told Fox News Digital.
Gunvalson’s diagnosis
Gunvalson shared the details of her sepsis diagnosis with Fox News Digital.
“Two weeks ago, when I was heading to my office, I was very delirious and unclear on where I was going,” Gunvalson said via email.
OHIO WOMAN WHO LOST ALL FOUR LIMBS TO FLU COMPLICATIONS SPEAKS OUT TO RAISE AWARENESS
“Once I got into the office, my staff realized I was not acting normal,” she went on. “My assistant thought that I was possibly having a stroke.”
The emergency room diagnosed Gunvalson with a “sinus disease” and sent her home, but by the next morning, she was “extremely incoherent” — so her boyfriend took her back to the hospital.
“Real Housewives of Orange County” star Vicki Gunvalson, 62, is sharing her recent health scare after she was hospitalized with sepsis, a potentially deadly disease that results from the body’s response to an infection. (Amanda Edwards/Getty Images)
“I was admitted for six days with sepsis and pneumonia,” she said.
Gunvalson was treated with a course of antibiotics and is now recovering at home, while staying in regular contact with the sepsis team at the hospital.
OHIO WOMAN WHO LOST ALL FOUR LIMBS TO FLU COMPLICATIONS SPEAKS OUT TO RAISE AWARENESS
The reality TV star has experienced some memory loss and difficulty concentrating, but said she hopes the “brain fog” will improve over time.
In retrospect, the sepsis may have stemmed from a sinus infection two months ago that was treated by multiple rounds of antibiotics, Gunvalson said.
Symptoms and dangers
Common symptoms of sepsis include fever, chills, rapid heart rate, confusion, shortness of breath, extreme pain, and clammy or sweaty skin, according to Gilles.
A high fever – especially in those who are at increased risk of infection and are feeling extremely unwell – should warrant seeking medical attention as soon as possible, Glatt added.
“Sepsis awareness can and does save lives, yet only 65% of American adults have ever heard of it.”
“Fatigue and lethargy in the setting of infection can be a sign of pneumonia and potential sepsis, even without overt pulmonary symptoms,” Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News’ senior medical analyst and clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center, told Fox News Digital.
NEW SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY CAN ‘LIGHT UP’ BACTERIA IN WOUNDS, HELPING TO PREVENT INFECTIONS
As sepsis can start within hours, Gilles suggested following the acronym “TIME” to remember that time is of the essence when it comes to seeking treatment.
T – Temperature (higher or lower than normal)
I – Infection (know the signs and symptoms)
M – Mental decline (confusion, sleepiness and difficulty awakening)
E – Extremely ill (severe pain, discomfort and shortness of breath)
Approximately 1.7 million adults are diagnosed with sepsis every year in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Approximately 1.7 million adults are diagnosed with sepsis every year in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (iStock)
The illness kills 350,000 American adults each year and is a leading cause of death in U.S. hospitals, Gilles noted.
It is the third-leading killer behind heart disease, which takes just over 700,000 lives each year, and cancer, which causes more than 600,000 annual deaths, per CDC data.
“Sepsis takes a life every 90 seconds — that’s more lives than opioids, breast cancer, prostate cancer and stroke combined,” she said.
Common myths about sepsis
Many people mistakenly assume that sepsis is an infection.
“Sepsis is the body’s overwhelming and life-threatening response to infection, which can lead to tissue damage, organ failure and death,” Gilles said.
The condition can come after any infection — whether just a scrape or cut, a dental procedure or surgery, or even a [bacteria], fungus or parasite — triggers a “chain reaction” in the body, the doctor added.
Treatment of sepsis will vary based on the underlying infection, but it often involves administering antibiotics as soon as possible. (iStock)
Another common myth is that sepsis only occurs in those who are (or were recently) hospitalized.
Most cases of sepsis, around 87%, start before a patient enters the hospital, Gilles said.
AFTER LOSING HER LEG TO THE FLU, VIRGINIA WOMAN URGES PEOPLE TO GET VACCINATED: ‘DON’T WASTE TIME’
“Community-acquired infections, such as urinary tract infections, pneumonia and even simple cuts or scrapes can lead to sepsis if not treated properly,” Gilles noted.
Many people also think sepsis only affects immunocompromised people.
Older adults, infants and those with chronic illnesses or weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of sepsis. (iStock)
“Sepsis can strike almost anyone at almost any time,” Glatt said.
“While certain individuals are at higher risk of getting a severe infection that can even be deadly, serious infections can strike even a perfectly healthy young person with rare but potentially fatal consequences,” he went on.
Older adults, infants and those with chronic illnesses or weakened immune systems are at a higher risk, however.
Treatment and prevention
The first step is discovering the underlying cause of the infection, according to the CDC.
Sepsis often starts in the gastrointestinal tract, lungs, skin or urinary tract.
“Sepsis is the body’s overwhelming and life-threatening response to infection, which can lead to tissue damage, organ failure and death,” a doctor said. (iStock)
Treatment will vary based on the underlying infection, but often involves administering antibiotics as soon as possible.
“While antibiotics are crucial for treating an underlying bacterial infection, managing sepsis often requires a comprehensive approach — including fluids, medications to support blood pressure, and sometimes surgery or [a ventilator], depending on the severity,” said Gilles.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER
Surgery is sometimes necessary to remove tissue damaged by the infection, the CDC states.
It’s also important to maintain blood flow to the organs, often with fluids.
“Sepsis can strike almost anyone at almost any time.”
“If you suspect sepsis, seek medical attention right away,” Gilles advised.
The risk can be reduced by quickly identifying and managing infections, according to the doctor.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health
Added Gilles, “It can also be prevented by practicing good hygiene, staying current with vaccinations, staying in good health, keeping cuts clean and dry, and promptly seeking treatment when infections are suspected.”
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
The New York State Department of Health has announced the highest number of flu hospitalizations recorded in a single week.
The state confirmed the uptick in hospital visits in a press release on Jan. 2, as flu cases continue to rise in the region and nationwide.
New York State, including New York City, has consistently tracked the highest numbers of recorded respiratory illness cases in the country for the last few weeks, according to CDC data. Several other states have climbed to the “very high” category for respiratory activity as well, as of the week ending Dec. 27.
RECORD-BREAKING FLU NUMBERS REPORTED IN NEW YORK STATE, SPARKING WARNINGS FROM OFFICIALS
The most recent data from the New York health department showed a total of 4,546 hospitalizations from Dec. 26, 2025, to Jan. 2, 2026 – a week-over-week increase of nearly 1,000. The prior week, the department announced the highest number of flu cases ever recorded in a single seven-day period.
The New York State Department of Health reported a total of 4,546 hospitalizations from Dec. 26, 2025, to Jan. 2, 2026. (iStock)
In a statement, New York’s Acting Commissioner of Health Dr. James McDonald noted the severity of this flu season compared to previous years.
“Almost 1,000 more people were admitted to a hospital during this most recent seven-day period compared to the prior week,” he confirmed. “There is still time to get a flu shot, and remember, flu can be treated with antiviral medication if started within 48 hours of symptom onset [as] your doctor deems appropriate.”
CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES
Health officials are pushing for Americans to consider getting the flu vaccine, as experts consider it to be a top line of defense for preventing viral exposure and spread.
Flu symptoms can include fever, chills, headache, fatigue, cough, sore throat and runny nose. (iStock)
In a previous interview with Fox News Digital, Dr. Neil Maniar, professor of public health practice at Boston’s Northeastern University, emphasized that it’s not too late to get the flu vaccine, as peak season typically occurs in January.
“The vaccine still provides protection against serious illness resulting from the subclade K variant that seems to be going around,” he said.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER
Even healthy individuals can become seriously ill from the flu, Maniar noted, “so a vaccine is beneficial for almost everyone.”
“Individuals typically start to develop some degree of protection within a few days and gain the full benefit within about two weeks, so now is the time for anyone who hasn’t gotten the vaccine yet.”
“The vaccine still provides protection against serious illness resulting from the subclade K variant that seems to be going around,” one doctor said. (iStock)
Flu symptoms can include fever, chills, headache, fatigue, cough, sore throat and runny nose.
A mutation of influenza A H3N2, called subclade K, has been detected as the culprit in rising global cases, causing more intense symptoms and higher risk of spread.
TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ
“It’s becoming evident that this is a pretty severe variant of the flu,” Maniar said. “Certainly, in other parts of the world where this variant has been prevalent, it’s caused some severe illness, and we’re seeing an aggressive flu season already.”
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP
New York State recommends taking preventive actions to avoid flu infection. These include washing hands often; avoiding touching the eyes, nose and mouth; avoiding close contact with sick people; cleaning and disinfecting objects and surfaces; and staying home when feeling sick.
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
When someone gets a cancer diagnosis, the initial reaction is usually to undergo treatment as quickly as possible — but for some types of disease, doctors may recommend a more conservative approach.
For certain cancers, immediate or aggressive treatment can cause more harm than good, according to multiple medical experts.
For example, treating slow-growing tumors with surgery, radiation or chemotherapy could create significant side effects without a survival benefit.
PROSTATE CANCER PATIENTS SEE LONGER SURVIVAL WITH NEW COMBINATION DRUG
“The fact that so many cancers will never kill you is not a justification for not knowing, because there is still plenty of room for ‘watchful waiting,’ as well as interventions that may improve quality of life even if they don’t extend life,” Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News senior medical analyst, told Fox News Digital.
This is especially true as targeted cancer treatments emerge, which are more personalized and less likely to cause severe side effects, according to the doctor.
For precancerous, very early-stage breast conditions, careful monitoring may be more prudent than immediate surgery, research shows. (iStock)
“The fact that cancers are occurring earlier is a justification for heightened screenings, not the opposite,” Siegel added. “Information is power — what you do with that information is based on clinical judgment and the art of medicine.”
Below are some types of cancer that may not warrant treatment, according to research and doctors’ guidance.
No. 1: Prostate cancer (low-risk)
While some types of prostate cancer should be treated right away, others are better addressed by “watchful waiting,” according to Sanoj Punnen, M.D., a urologic oncologist with Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, part of the University of Miami Health System.
“With respect to prostate cancer, for most low-risk cancers (Gleason 6 or grade group 1), we recommend initial observation and surveillance rather than immediate treatment,” he told Fox News Digital.
NEW PROSTATE CANCER TEST PINPOINTS DISEASE BETTER THAN PSA OPTION, STUDY FINDS
The Gleason score is a grading system that ranks prostate cancer cells in terms of how abnormal they are, with 6 being the lowest grade and 10 being the highest grade (barely resembling normal cells).
“For high-grade tumors like Gleason 8, 9 or 10, we believe they progress quickly, so we recommend treatment to prevent the risk of metastasis,” said Punnen, who is also vice chair of research and a professor with the Desai Sethi Urology Institute at UHealth. “For low-risk tumors, we think they pose little risk, so we recommend just observation.”
“The fact that cancers are occurring earlier is a justification for heightened screenings, not the opposite.”
“But in the end, we can’t be sure, so our approach to observation includes serial monitoring of cancer status with PSA, MRI and occasional biopsy to ensure the tumor isn’t progressing.”
No. 2: Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)
Also known as stage 0 breast cancer, DCIS is a non-invasive disease marked by abnormal cells in the lining of the breast milk ducts. The “in situ” is Latin for “in the original place,” which indicates that the cancer has not spread outside the milk ducts.
For this precancerous, very early-stage breast condition, careful monitoring may be more prudent than immediate surgery, research shows.
While some types of prostate cancer should be treated right away, others are better addressed by “watchful waiting,” according to a urologic oncologist. (iStock)
A 2024 study by the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute found that active monitoring for DCIS resulted in similar quality of life, mental health and symptom progression over a two-year period compared to a standard surgical approach.
NEW STUDY QUESTIONS WHETHER ANNUAL MAMMOGRAMS ARE NECESSARY FOR MOST WOMEN
“These results suggest that in the short term, active monitoring is a reasonable approach to management of low-risk DCIS,” the lead researcher said in a press release. “If longer-term follow-up supports the safety of active management from a cancer outcome standpoint, this approach could be considered as an option for women with this condition.”
“But it is also critical that we understand how women feel when they are living with this ‘watch and wait’ approach and how it impacts their overall quality of life.”
Other research has suggested that women with low-risk DCIS did not have a higher rate of invasive cancer after two years of active monitoring, although each patient should discuss their individual risk level with an oncologist.
No. 3: Indolent (slow-growing) lymphomas
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is a type of cancer that starts in the lymphatic system, which includes the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, bone marrow and other tissues.
Indolent lymphomas are those that “grow and spread slowly,” according to the American Cancer Society.
THE DEADLY CANCER HIDING IN PLAIN SIGHT — AND WHY MOST PATIENTS NEVER GET SCREENED
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommends watchful waiting for asymptomatic, slow-growing follicular lymphoma, as a means of avoiding the toxicity of chemotherapy and immunotherapy until it’s absolutely necessary.
The Lymphoma Research Foundation confirms that doctors recommend “active surveillance” for some patients with slow-growing lymphoma.
Indolent lymphomas are those that “grow and spread slowly,” according to the American Cancer Society. (iStock)
“This approach may be started after the initial diagnosis or after relapse, depending on the situation,” the foundation states on its website. “Active treatment is started if the patient begins to develop lymphoma-related symptoms or if there are signs that the disease is progressing.”
Treatment should be started right away for aggressive (fast-growing) lymphomas.
No. 4: Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
One of the most common adult leukemias, chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) originates in white blood cells (lymphocytes) in the bone marrow and then spreads to the bloodstream, according to the American Cancer Society.
CLL tends to grow slowly, with many patients experiencing no symptoms for years. Eventually, the cancer calls can spread to the lymph nodes, liver and spleen.
BREAKTHROUGH BLOOD TEST COULD SPOT DOZENS OF CANCERS BEFORE SYMPTOMS APPEAR
Some studies have shown that early treatment for CLL does not improve survival rates compared to observation, and that the benefits may not outweigh the risks.
In a 2023 study presented at the European Hematology Association 2023 Congress in Frankfurt, Germany, researchers found that early treatment did not prolong overall survival compared to a placebo in patients with early, asymptomatic CLL.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER
“I believe it’s fair to conclude that ‘watch-and-wait’ should remain the standard of care in the era of targeted drugs,” said researcher Petra Langerbeins, M.D., when presenting the findings.
No. 5: Low-grade endometrial cancer
For most patients with endometrial cancer, surgery is the first treatment, which entails removing the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries, according to the American Cancer Society.
However, in certain patients with low-grade cancer, such as older people, those with “frailty” and people with major health issues, doctors may recommend deferring surgery, which can pose a high risk.
The American Thyroid Association’s guidelines officially recommend active surveillance for very low-risk microcarcinomas. (iStock)
In cases where the patient has medical comorbidities or wants to preserve fertility, hormone treatment may be used instead of surgery, per the ACS.
“It’s usually also considered for cancer that is lower-grade, low-volume and slow-growing,” the above source stated.
No. 6: Some early kidney cancers
In cases of kidney cancer with small tumors (≤3 cm) or benign lesions, doctors may recommend monitoring them instead of undergoing surgery for removal.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES
The American Urological Association confirms that active surveillance is an option for some small renal masses (localized tumors).
“I believe it’s fair to conclude that ‘watch-and-wait’ should remain the standard of care in the era of targeted drugs.”
Deferred treatment is particularly recommended for older patients or those with “significant comorbidities,” research shows.
“Shared decision-making about active surveillance should consider risks of intervention/competing mortality versus potential oncologic benefits of intervention,” the UAU states in its guidance.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP
Data from the Delayed Intervention and Surveillance for Small Renal Masses (DISSRM) Registry showed that patients with active surveillance had a 99% or greater cancer-specific survival rate — virtually the same as patients who received immediate treatment.
No. 7: Small papillary thyroid cancers
Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC), the most common type of thyroid cancer, may not warrant treatment for small tumors measuring 1 centimeter (10 mm) or less, which are called microcarcinomas.
A young multiracial female is undergoing a diagnostic medical imaging procedure in a state-of-the-art hospital setting with CT simulator. The image illustrates the use of cutting-edge technology for healthcare and treatment in a modern medical environment. The portrayal highlights precision, care, and the sophistication of contemporary medical practices. (iStock)
Research found that when using active surveillance for 10 to 20 years, less than 10% experienced significant growth, only 5% developed lymph node spread and there were no thyroid-cancer deaths.
The American Thyroid Association’s guidelines officially recommend active surveillance for very low-risk microcarcinomas.
TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ
While many patients with low-risk tumors can safely delay treatment, this does not apply to all cancers or all patients.
As cancer behavior and personal health factors vary widely, patients should consult their doctor to determine the most appropriate course of care based on their individual risk level.
Welcome to the Brain Health Challenge! I’m Dana Smith, a reporter at The New York Times, and I’ll be your guide.
To live a healthy life, it’s crucial to have a healthy brain. In the short term, it keeps you sharp and firing on all cylinders. In the long term, it can reduce your risk of cognitive decline, dementia and stroke.
Practicing basic healthy behaviors, like eating nutritious food and getting regular exercise, is the best way to enhance your brain power and protect the longevity of your neurons. These types of lifestyle habits can benefit the brain at any age. And while they won’t guarantee that you’ll never develop dementia or another brain disease, several clinical trials have shown that they can improve cognition or slow decline.
Every day this week, you’ll do an activity that’s good for your brain, and we’ll dig into the science behind why it works. Some of these activities can provide a small immediate cognitive benefit, but the bigger reward comes from engaging in them consistently over time. So along with the neuroscience lessons, we’ll include a few tips to help you turn these actions into lasting habits.
To keep you accountable, we’re encouraging you to complete this challenge with a friend. If you don’t have a challenge buddy, no problem: We’re also turning the comments section into one big support group.
There are so many fascinating ways your daily behaviors affect your brain. Take sleep, for example.
Lots of studies have shown that getting a good night’s rest (seven to eight hours) is associated with better memory and other cognitive abilities. That’s because sleep, especially REM sleep, is when your brain transfers short-term memories — things you learned or experienced during the day — into long-term storage.
Sleep is also when your brain does its daily housekeeping. While you rest, the brain’s glymphatic system kicks into high gear, clearing out abnormal proteins and other molecular garbage, including the protein amyloid, which is a major contributor to Alzheimer’s disease. A buildup of amyloid is one reason experts think that people who routinely get less sleep have a higher risk of dementia.
What other behaviors play a big role in brain health? For today’s activity, we’re going to test your knowledge with a quiz. Share your score with your accountability partner and in the comments below — I’ll be in there too, cheering you on.
SD Lottery Powerball, Lucky For Life winning numbers for Jan. 5, 2026
419 sober drivers in Tennessee arrested for DUI in 2024, according to TBI
Boys high school basketball: Top 10 power rankings for Central Texas
The Utah Jazz will eventually have to face their their lack of defense
Nursing home bailouts: Why Vermont has given millions to keep care centers afloat – The Boston Globe
Florida High School Football Rankings: Top 25 teams – Oct. 21
Cleary's 21 help Le Moyne down Central Connecticut State 69-64 in OT
How old is Bo Nix? What to know about Oregon quarterback ahead of 2024 NFL Draft
99th annual Pony Swim held in Virginia
Video: ‘It Didn’t Have to Happen This Way:’ U.Va. Faculty Call for Review of Police Response to Protests
Federal officials to halt more than $10B in funding to 5 states over non-citizen benefit concerns: report
US critics and allies condemn Maduro’s abduction at UN Security Council
Maduro seized, norms tested: Security Council divided as Venezuela crisis deepens
Video: Welcome to Rennie Harris’s Dance Floor
Fraud fallout forces Democratic Gov Tim Walz to abandon Minnesota re-election bid
-
World1 week agoHamas builds new terror regime in Gaza, recruiting teens amid problematic election
-
Indianapolis, IN1 week agoIndianapolis Colts playoffs: Updated elimination scenario, AFC standings, playoff picture for Week 17
-
News1 week agoRoads could remain slick, icy Saturday morning in Philadelphia area, tracking another storm on the way
-
Politics1 week agoMost shocking examples of Chinese espionage uncovered by the US this year: ‘Just the tip of the iceberg’
-
World1 week agoPodcast: The 2025 EU-US relationship explained simply
-
News1 week agoFor those who help the poor, 2025 goes down as a year of chaos
-
News1 week agoWinter storm brings heavy snow and ice to busy holiday travel weekend
-
Politics1 week ago‘Unlucky’ Honduran woman arrested after allegedly running red light and crashing into ICE vehicle