Katharine Lang

2 weeks ago | medicalnewstoday.com | Katharine Lang

Share on PinterestThe Mediterranean diet, rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, olive oil, nuts, and seeds, and low in red meat and processed foods, is associated with several health benefits. These include a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, and some mental health conditions. Now, a study suggests that following a Mediterranean diet may significantly reduce a person’s risk of breast cancer.

2 weeks ago | medicalnewstoday.com | Katharine Lang

Share on PinterestAlthough cigarette use is declining among middle-aged people in the United States, cannabis use is increasing. Cannabis smoke, like tobacco smoke, is linked to an increased risk of cancer and lung damage. Now, a large-scale study has linked heavy cannabis use with an increased risk of dementia. People aged over 45 who needed acute hospital care due to cannabis use had a 72% greater risk of receiving a dementia diagnosis within 5 years than the general population.

3 weeks ago | medicalnewstoday.com | Katharine Lang

Share on PinterestHearing loss is common worldwide, and the incidence increases with age — around one-third of those aged over 60 have some hearing loss. Studies have linked hearing loss to an increased risk of developing dementia. Now, a study in older adults has found that, at a population level, hearing loss may increase dementia risk by almost one-third. The researchers suggest that treating hearing loss could delay, or even prevent, dementia for a large number of older adults.

3 weeks ago | medicalnewstoday.com | Katharine Lang

Share on PinterestHeart rhythm abnormalities, or irregular heartbeats, are thought to affect up to 5% of the population. They are more common in those over age 65 and people with a family history of the condition. Maintaining a healthy weight, doing regular exercise, and lowering blood pressure can all help decrease the risk of developing a heart rhythm abnormality.

1 month ago | medicalnewstoday.com | Katharine Lang

Share on PinterestDementia currently affects more than 57 million people worldwide, and numbers are projected to almost triple over the next 25 years. Many factors can increase a person’s risk of developing dementia, including age, genetics, vascular diseases and, according to newer research, some viral infections. One viral infection linked to an increased risk of dementia is shingles, caused when a dormant chicken pox virus reactivates in nerve cells.