Health

The San Diego Unified School District voted to change Clairemont High School's 'Chieftains' nickname to 'Captains,' citing a 2024 California law that expands a ban on certain Native American–themed names effective July 1, 2026.

A University of Sydney review found oral opioids gave only small or short-lived benefits for many acute pain types and were no better than placebo for some conditions; other studies report measurable placebo-related pain relief.

A cardiologist identifies LDL and non-HDL cholesterol as the two key measures linked to artery plaque, and screening frequency depends on individual cardiovascular risk with higher-risk patients tested more often.

Ron Duguay, 68, told Page Six he has Stage 4 colon cancer and his family has launched a GoFundMe to help cover treatment, travel and related costs.

A 96-week Phase III trial presented at CROI 2026 reported that switching to doravirine+islatravir (DOR/ISL) maintained viral suppression and showed consistent safety through week 96. The article says the regimen is at pre-registration in the US with a potential 2026 launch if approved.

South Korea's fertility rate rose to 0.80 in 2025, and the year’s increase in births was largely driven by women aged 30–34 often called "echo boomers."

Surgeon general nominee Means declined to explicitly urge vaccination and said individuals should consult their doctors; Senator Bill Cassidy pressed her and cited recent measles outbreaks and child deaths.

Researchers analyzed de-identified electronic health records from MarketScan and Vanderbilt and identified about 70 medical conditions across four categories that appeared in the decade before an Alzheimer's diagnosis.

Stanford researchers reported an experimental nasal spray vaccine that protected mice against SARS‑CoV‑2, other coronaviruses, two bacteria and a common allergen; the team says adapting it for people could take about five to seven years with adequate funding.

A Phase 2b randomized trial of Longeveron's laromestrocel, published in Cell Stem Cell, reported improved physical condition in 148 ambulatory patients with age-related frailty at nine months versus placebo.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry began a surprise two-day visit to Jordan to join WHO-led events focused on humanitarian health, mental health and support for communities affected by conflict and displacement, arriving in Amman for a WHO roundtable and visits to refugee and medical evacuee sites.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are in Jordan for a two-day visit with the World Health Organization; Meghan wore a monochrome white outfit at a WHO roundtable and later changed into more casual olive and tan looks while visiting a refugee camp and a hospital.

Experts and researchers report that the number one rule of sleep hygiene is consistency: keeping regular bed and wake times anchors the circadian rhythm and supports related bodily processes.

Stanford researchers report an intranasal vaccine that protected mice from multiple respiratory viruses, some bacteria and an allergen in a preclinical study published in Science; human safety and effectiveness remain to be tested through clinical trials.

Colorectal cancer rates have risen among Americans under 50 and now account for more cancer deaths in that age group than breast or brain cancers; updated guidance recommends average‑risk screening begin at 45, with earlier surveillance for those with a family history or inherited conditions.

The American Heart Association projects the share of women with at least one cardiovascular condition to rise from 10.7% in 2020 to 14.4% in 2050, with aging and increases in diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure cited as key drivers.

Dr. Casey Means will appear before a Senate committee Wednesday after being nominated by President Trump to be surgeon general; she has criticized conventional medicine and does not currently hold an active clinical license.

More than 1,000 U.S.-trained nurses were approved to work in British Columbia after the province streamlined licensing, and many who moved say political concerns under President Trump influenced their decision.

The Royal House says King Harald, 89, was admitted to Hospital Universitario Hospiten Sur in Tenerife for treatment of an infection and dehydration and was reported to be in good condition. His personal physician will travel to Tenerife to assess him and an update will be provided after that assessment.

The U.S. is winding down health aid in Zimbabwe after Harare withdrew from negotiations on a proposed $367 million, five-year agreement; the U.S. ambassador said Zimbabwe has assured continued efforts against HIV/AIDS.

AARP's December 2025 Top 100 Places list ranked Boulder, Colorado, among the top six large communities for 2026 and gave it the highest community engagement score; the city also offers extensive outdoor access and local services for older residents.

Researchers report that gut microbial balance is linked to colorectal cancer risk and can influence how cancers develop and respond to treatment. Experts say the microbiome can be changed by factors such as diet, physical activity, probiotics, and other interventions, though more intervention studies are needed.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will spend two days in Amman to meet medical evacuees from Gaza and to visit humanitarian and mental health initiatives, hosted by WHO director-general Dr Tedros.

A study published in Circulation and statements from the American Heart Association report that gum disease, which affects nearly half of U.S. adults, is linked to inflammation and may be associated with higher cardiovascular risk.

Sophia, born with trisomy 18 in 2022, survived despite a 5% chance at birth and now requires continuous medical support while her parents navigate hospital and insurance challenges.

Keke Palmer unveiled a 17-piece Fabletics collection tied to her fitness routine, highlighting Pilates as a daily practice; the line launched Feb. 19 online and in stores.

Novo Nordisk said it will halve Wegovy's U.S. list price starting January 1, 2027, and set Ozempic and Wegovy at $675 per month.

Two Tennessee Republican lawmakers have proposed an amendment that would apply homicide laws to people who end pregnancies; the amendment has not been formally filed and sponsors say it currently lacks clear Senate support.

A University of Colorado vascular surgeon said he feared Deion Sanders might need a leg amputation after a game last October; Sanders later had surgery to remove blood clots and has returned to activity.

Researchers at the Gladstone Institutes report that in low-oxygen conditions red blood cells absorb large amounts of glucose, lowering circulating blood sugar and offering a possible explanation for lower diabetes rates seen at higher elevations.