Testing and monitoring for HIV in South Africa have experienced a sharp decline in recent months, following significant cuts in US aid that previously supported healthcare workers and local clinics. According to unreleased data from South Africa's National Health Laboratory Service, the drop in viral load testing—especially among vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, infants, and youth—is raising alarm among health experts. The United States had been contributing approxima

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that affects around 1 in 100 adults globally. It is characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that can significantly disrupt daily life. While many people with OCD respond well to standard treatments like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a significant number estimated at around 40% do not achieve sufficient symptom reli

Santa Clara County is making significant strides in enhancing healthcare access for children with developmental disabilities by expanding its Pediatric Development Specialty Center at the county-owned O’Connor Hospital. This move is part of the county’s broader commitment to meet the growing needs of youth requiring specialized developmental support and to ease the burden on families facing long wait times for care. The expansion includes the addition of an entire new suite on the ho

Several over-the-counter eye products have been voluntarily recalled following a U.S. Food and Drug Administration audit that uncovered issues related to manufacturing practices. The recall, issued by AvKARE, involves Artificial Tears Ophthalmic Solution, a commonly used product for treating dry or irritated eyes. According to the recall announcement posted by the company, the products were pulled due to deviations in manufacturing that may have compromised quality and potentially pose a risk

A groundbreaking discovery by scientists in Australia could mark a major turning point in the fight against debilitating brain disorders such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. Researchers at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research (WEHI) in Melbourne have identified a small molecule that can block the death of brain cells a breakthrough that may pave the way for future treatments for neurodegenerative diseases. The research, published in the journal Science

The United States has surpassed 1,000 confirmed measles cases in 2025, marking a significant public health challenge and highlighting the growing impact of declining vaccination rates. The virus has resurfaced in 11 states with active outbreaks and continues to spread through communities with inadequate immunization coverage. As of Friday, there were 1,001 confirmed measles cases nationwide. Texas accounts for the majority of those, with 709 cases reported across 29 counties. Desp

In light of the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan under the ongoing Operation Sindoor, Gangaram Hospital in Delhi has significantly bolstered its emergency preparedness protocols. The hospital administration has proactively taken comprehensive steps to ensure full medical readiness in the event of a crisis, following the recent surge in military activity along the borders. Dr Ajay Swaroop, Chairman of the Board of Management, shared that the hospital has ensured the a

Vinay Prasad, a renowned oncologist-hematologist, has been appointed as the new director of the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER) at the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This division of the FDA is charged with overseeing the evaluation and approval of critical biologic products, including vaccines, blood derivatives, and select gene-based therapies. Prasad’s appointment comes at a time when the FDA remains under public and political scrutiny for its handling of

As Brain Cancer Awareness Month unfolds in May, a mother from the suburbs is speaking out about her experience with glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive forms of brain cancer. Her story is a call to action for early detection, self-advocacy, and access to advanced treatment options that are increasingly available beyond major city hospitals. An energetic and health-conscious mother of two, she first noticed something unusual in June 2024. While working, she felt pain in her

San Francisco has been named the healthiest city in the United States in a newly released national study analyzing over 180 cities across the country. The study evaluated a wide range of health-related metrics, including access to healthcare, nutritional habits, fitness levels, and the availability of public green spaces. With a total score of 68.05, San Francisco claimed the number one spot, outpacing other major cities renowned for their commitment to wellness and sustainable living.

Achieving strong, shiny, and healthy hair goes beyond shampoos, serums, and salon treatments—it begins on your plate. Nutrition plays a key role in hair health, and according to well-known nutritionist Palak Nagpal, a balanced diet rich in specific nutrients can do wonders for your hair’s growth, thickness, and texture. In a recent Instagram video, Palak shared her top three foods that she personally swears by for maintaining healthy hair: lentils, walnuts, and homemade yoghurt.

Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil, holds a special place in Indian homes—not just as a sacred plant, but as a symbol of wellness and natural healing. Revered in Ayurveda for thousands of years and now backed by modern research, tulsi is a plant with remarkable medicinal properties. Chewing a few raw tulsi leaves daily can bring about wide-ranging benefits for your body and mind, making it a simple but powerful step toward holistic health. The Ministry of AYUSH and global institu

In a hard-fought community effort, residents of West Jefferson, Ohio, have successfully stopped a proposed biodigester project that had stirred deep concerns over environmental risks and its proximity to residential neighborhoods. After months of advocacy, the company behind the project withdrew its plans, signaling a major win for local voices who refused to be sidelined. The proposed facility, intended for Madison County, would have processed cow manure and food waste into renewable natural ga

It’s completely normal to forget things occasionally like where you left your keys or the name of a new acquaintance. However, when memory lapses begin to interfere with daily life, relationships, and decision-making, they could be signs of something more serious. Conditions like mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer’s disease, or other neurological disorders often begin subtly, and early detection is critical for timely intervention. Here are eight warning signs that you

More than 7.2 million Americans are now living with Alzheimer’s disease, according to the Alzheimer’s Association’s 2025 Facts and Figures report released Tuesday. Of those, over 459,000 live in Texas, placing the state among the hardest hit by this debilitating illness. The new data underscores not only the growing burden of Alzheimer’s, but also the unrecognized labor and emotional toll carried by over 1 million unpaid caregivers in Texas alone. The disease, which ca

A groundbreaking study has revealed that exposure to phthalates chemicals commonly used to make plastics flexible may have played a major role in over 356,000 cardiovascular-related deaths globally in 2018. The research, conducted by a team at New York University’s Grossman School of Medicine, places a spotlight on a widespread environmental health hazard linked to one of the world’s leading causes of death. According to the study, nearly 13.5% of cardiovascular deaths in ind

Residents of Illinois are being urged to stay vigilant after a dead rabbit found in Tuscola tested positive for tularemia, a bacterial disease that poses a risk to both humans and animals. The Douglas County Health Department confirmed that the rabbit was discovered and tested following reports of unusual animal deaths in the area. Tuscola, located about 25 miles south of Champaign, became the focus of public health attention after the positive result. Adding to the concern, officials also re

This Saturday, communities across the United States will join a coordinated national effort to collect and safely dispose of unused prescription drugs as the Drug Enforcement Agency holds its biannual Prescription Drug Take-Back Day. In collaboration with local law enforcement agencies, the DEA is once again encouraging residents to clear their homes of expired, unwanted, or unnecessary medications to reduce the risk of misuse and protect public safety. The event will take place from 10 a.m. to

A balanced, nutrient-rich diet is the foundation of a healthy body and a sound mind. Among the essential nutrients the human body needs, magnesium often doesn’t get the attention it deserves. Yet, this powerhouse mineral plays a vital role in over 300 biochemical reactions that are crucial to everyday health. From muscle and nerve function to bone strength and sleep quality, magnesium is involved in numerous physiological processes that keep the body running smoothly. Despite its import

Mucus in the lungs is a common concern, especially during respiratory infections, seasonal changes, or after exposure to pollutants. While mucus is essential for trapping dust, microbes, and irritants, excess production can lead to uncomfortable symptoms such as chest congestion, coughing, difficulty breathing, and fatigue. Health authorities like the World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have acknowledged the role of lifestyle and home