Health
Weekend read: Top stories of the week in Health in case you missed them
Fox News Digital publishes an array of health pieces all week to keep you in the know on various wellness topics: disease prevention, nutrition, medical research, health care and much more — plus, personal stories of people and families overcoming challenging obstacles.
As you wind down your weekend, check out some of the top stories of the week in Health that you may have missed, or have been meaning to check out.
These are just a few of what’s new, of course. There are many more to see at http://www.foxnews/health.
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Dive into this selection here — and let us know your thoughts or recommendations for our next roundup in the comments section below.
New Alzheimer’s insights may help patients
Researchers have identified a total of five subgroups among Alzheimer’s patients, according to a new study from the Netherlands.
The discovery could help determine more personalized treatments for patients depending on their assigned group. Click here to get the story.
Researchers have discovered a total of five subgroups among Alzheimer’s patients, according to a new study published in the journal Nature Aging. Different groups may require different treatment options. (iStock)
Rare childhood disease is in the spotlight
An Ohio mother shared a heartbreaking story of her 8-year-old son’s diagnosis of Batten disease.
Emily Blackburn is determined to boost awareness of this rare genetic condition and to help raise funds to find a cure. Click here to get the story.
Grayson Naff, 8, pictured with his family (left, front) was diagnosed with Batten disease in spring 2023. “I really don’t have words for it,” said mom Emily Blackburn to Fox News Digital. (Emily Blackburn)
Concerns emerge about Arctic zombie viruses
Some scientists are concerned that ancient viruses frozen in permafrost for thousands of years could emerge due to climate change.
Several experts shared their views on the potential risks. Click here to get the story.
Jean-Michel Claverie, PhD (front, left), a geneticist and an emeritus professor at the School of Medicine of Aix-Marseille University in the South of France, has conducted extensive research on Arctic zombie viruses, also referred to as “Methuselah microbes.” (Getty Images)
AI could help IBD
Insilico Medicine’s artificial intelligence technology has targeted and designed a drug to treat inflammatory bowel disease, a condition that affects 1.6 million people in the U.S.
Fox News Digital spoke with Insilico’s CEO, a gastroenterologist and an AI expert about the drug’s potential. Click here to get the story.
What you must know about prostate conditions
Amid a flurry of high-profile prostate diagnoses and treatments, men’s health experts are sounding the alarm about symptoms, risk factors and treatment.
Fox News Digital also reported on some of the most common myths and misconceptions surrounding prostate conditions. Click here to get the story.
From left to right, King Charles II, Dexter King, Ryne Sandberg and Lloyd Austin are pictured. Amid a flurry of high-profile prostate cancer announcements, doctors are debunking common myths and emphasizing the importance of early screenings. (Getty Images)
Colon cancer sufferer shares cautionary tale
Brooks Bell was just 38 when doctors told her she was too young to have colon cancer — but two months after that, she received a Stage 3 diagnosis.
Today, the North Carolina entrepreneur has founded a nonprofit to spread awareness about the importance of screening for younger adults. Click here to get the story.
Brooks Bell of North Carolina is pictured after chemotherapy at right. After her treatment and recovery, she was voted onto the Board of Directors of the Colorectal Cancer Alliance. (Brooks Bell)
Can you overdose on Ozempic?
Poison control centers have reported a spike in calls from patients who have taken too much semaglutide.
Experts and doctors shared warning signs as well as tips to ensure a safe dosage.
Brooke Bell (left), a North Carolina cancer survivor, is spreading the word about the importance of colon cancer screenings. Also check out the latest Alzheimer’s discovery (center) — plus a family’s struggle with Batten disease, a rare and fatal genetic disorder (right). These are just some of the top Health stories from Fox News Digital this week. (Brooks Bell/iStock/Emily Blackburn)
The manufacturer also weighed in on the potential risk. Click here to get the story.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.
Health
Nutrient deficiency linked to heart disease risk for millions, new study warns
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More than three-quarters of the global population is falling short on omega-3 intake, a nutrient gap that may increase the risk of heart disease, cognitive decline, inflammation and vision problems.
That’s according to an analysis published in Nutrition Research Reviews, in which researchers from the University of East Anglia, the University of Southampton and Holland & Barrett analyzed omega-3 intake patterns across multiple countries and age groups.
The review found that 76% of people worldwide are not meeting the recommended levels of two omega-3 fats that are essential for heart health: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
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The analysis considered recommendations from global health authorities and assessed how closely populations follow them.
Most adults should aim for at least 250 milligrams of EPA and DHA per day, though actual intake is far lower in many regions, according to the researchers.
A new study found that 76% of people fall short of their recommended omega-3 intake. (iStock)
To explore the health implications of low omega-3 intake, Fox News Digital spoke with Michelle Routhenstein, a New York–based preventive cardiology dietitian at Entirely Nourished.
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Low omega-3 levels can have a noticeable impact on heart health, cognitive function and inflammation throughout the body, the expert confirmed.
Low intake can also increase the risk of heart attacks and sudden cardiac death, she added. It’s also associated with higher triglycerides, irregular heart rhythms and plaque in the arteries.
Most adults should aim for at least 250 milligrams of EPA and DHA per day, researchers say. (iStock)
Inadequate omega-3 levels have also been linked to changes in brain function, including faster cognitive decline, a higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease and increased rates of depression.
Routhenstein noted that low levels may also worsen inflammation in autoimmune conditions such as psoriasis, and can negatively affect eye health, since omega-3s play a key structural role in the retina.
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To improve omega-3 levels, the expert said it’s important to understand how much is needed and where to get it.
“The richest dietary sources of EPA and DHA are oily fish, such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, herring, trout and anchovies,” Routhenstein told Fox News Digital.
Oily fish, such as salmon, are among the richest natural sources of omega-3s. (iStock)
Many people benefit from eating oily fish more frequently, often three to four times per week, Routhenstein noted. For individuals who do not eat fish regularly, supplements can help raise EPA and DHA to healthier levels.
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For those taking omega-3 supplements, dosing should be based on lab results, medications, omega-3 levels and overall medical history, according to Routhenstein. Moderate, quality-controlled supplements are generally considered safe for most people.
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There is also some evidence supporting prescription-strength omega-3 products.
“High-dose EPA, such as 4 grams per day of icosapent ethyl, has been shown to reduce major cardiovascular events in certain high-risk populations, while similar doses of mixed EPA/DHA have not consistently shown the same benefit,” Routhenstein said.
Omega-3 dosing should be individualized based on lab data, medication use, current levels and overall medical history. (iStock)
Testing omega-3 levels can also help determine whether intake is adequate. The omega-3 index, a blood test that measures EPA and DHA in red blood cells, is considered one of the most reliable ways to assess status.
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“Levels around 8% are associated with lower cardiovascular risk, while levels below approximately 4% are considered low,” Routhenstein said.
Understanding baseline levels can help guide more personalized decisions about diet and supplementation.
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Those who are unsure about their omega-3 status or whether supplementation is appropriate should speak with a healthcare provider to determine the best approach.
Health
5 winter-weather essentials to protect skin health in dangerously cold temperatures
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As winter weather moves in, cozy essentials like scarves, plush throws and heated bedding become everyday comforts.
But dermatologists caution that these cold-weather favorites can secretly undermine skin health — trapping sweat and bacteria, causing irritation and exposing the skin to excess heat.
Choosing the right materials for wellness — and using them safely — can make a big difference.
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Here are five winter must-haves and gift ideas, with expert tips on how to keep skin healthy and happy while staying warm this season.
Soft scarf, $19.99, Amazon.com
Scarves made of natural fiber, like this one that is 100% cotton, may help if you’re prone to irritation. (Amazon)
A soft scarf is a staple for cold days and an easy way to elevate a winter outfit.
Yet, if breakouts are appearing along the neck, jawline or chest, that favorite accessory may be part of the problem.
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“You should wash your scarf as often as your clothes to prevent breakouts,” Annabelle Taurua, a beauty expert at Fresha, a beauty and wellness booking platform headquartered in London, told Fox News Digital.
Cotton is a better choice than polyester, she also noted, as it’s more breathable and allows sweat to evaporate.
Fluffy blankets, $28.97, Potterybarn.com
Fluffy blankets make for perfect cozy days at home, but their soft fibers can trap sweat, oils and dead skin — which can clog pores and encourage bacteria growth. (Pottery Barn)
Fluffy blankets make for perfect cozy days at home, but their soft fibers can trap sweat, oils and dead skin, which can clog pores and encourage bacteria growth.
Rough textures or infrequent washing can also irritate sensitive skin and worsen breakouts.
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“Regularly wash your blankets, especially those made from synthetic or fluffy materials, to remove built-up oils and dirt,” Taurua advised.
She recommended breathable materials like cotton or linen, as well as hypoallergenic options for anyone prone to irritation.
Good set of sheets, $49.99, Amazon.com
Much like scarves, natural fibers are the way to go for your linens to avoid irritation. (iStock)
Cold weather makes lingering in bed especially tempting, but lying on unwashed bedding can worsen acne.
Pillowcases and sheets quickly collect oil, bacteria and dead skin cells, which transfer directly onto the face.
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“Washing bedding frequently is important,” Taurua said. “You should aim to change and wash your pillowcases every two to three days and your sheets at least once a week.”
Heated blanket, $33.99, Walmart.com
Heated blankets are a great way to stay warm during the winter. (Walmart)
When using a heated blanket, start with the lowest heat setting and limit use, said Taurua.
“Once you’re warm, switch to a regular blanket,” she advised.
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She also said it’s best to avoid direct contact for long periods to reduce irritation.
Hot water bottle, $12.99, Amazon.com
A traditional winter staple, hot water bottles offer quick comfort — but they come with risks similar to heated blankets, including burns, scalding and long-term heat-related skin damage.
Hot water bottles should never be filled with boiling water, experts advise. (Amazon)
“Never fill a hot water bottle with boiling water,” Taurua said.
“Only use hot, not boiling, water, and fill it to a maximum of two-thirds.”
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She recommended wrapping the bottle in a towel or cover to avoid direct skin contact and limiting use to around 20 minutes.
Health
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