Health News

HIV patients age faster, study

A new study has found that patients with HIV may age faster, compared to individuals without the virus. With the improvements of antiviral medications, HIV patients are living longer, but doctors have noted that patients still manifest the signs of premature aging. Researchers used a highly accurate genetic marker of aging and found that HIV ...click here to read more

Seniors’ health benefits from owning a dog

A new study reports that seniors’ health can greatly benefit from owning a dog. Benefits associated with dog ownership include a lower body mass index, fewer visits to the doctor, an increase in exercise, and more active social life. Lead researcher Rebecca Johnson said, “Our study explored the associations between dog ownership and pet bonding ...click here to read more

Heart disease risk higher in lonely, isolated people

The risk of heart disease is higher among individuals who are lonely or isolated. The findings of the study uncovered that social isolation increased the risk of heart disease and stroke by 30 percent, which is similar to the impact of job-related stress on cardiac wellbeing. Lead researcher Nicole Valtorta said, “Addressing loneliness and social ...click here to read more

Type 2 diabetes drug, metformin, safe for the heart, unlike other diabetes drugs

Metformin, a common drug for type 2 diabetes, has been found to be safe for the heart – unlike other type 2 diabetes medications. The researchers found that metformin reduced the risk of mortality associated with heart attack and stroke by 30 to 40 percent, in comparison to other commonly prescribed medications. Senior author Dr. ...click here to read more

Chronic migraines may be treated with botox

The American Academy of Neurology has updated its guidelines on the use of botox, which is referred to as a safe and effective treatment for chronic migraines – along with three other neurological disorders. Botulinum toxin is normally used as a cosmetic treatment to smooth out wrinkles, but it can also reduce muscle contractions and ...click here to read more

Prostate cancer survival boosted with regular exercise

Prostate cancer survival rates may be boosted with regular exercise, research shows. The American Cancer Society study looked at over 10,000 men diagnosed with prostate cancer. The men provided information about their activity levels prior to and after diagnosis. The researchers found that men with the highest levels of exercise prior to their diagnosis had ...click here to read more

Knowing your allergy triggers can help reduce symptoms

Knowing what triggers your allergic reaction can help you better prevent and reduce the symptoms. Many individuals just assume that pollen is their trigger the moment spring arrives, but there are many other allergens that may come up during the pollen season. Furthermore, the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) says that over ...click here to read more

World Hemophilia Day, hemophilia, Christmas disease, migraine with aura, and blood disorders

Sunday, April 17, 2016 is the World Hemophilia Day, which raises awareness about hemophilia, a condition characterized by prolonged bleeding. Other blood-related issues are also discussed during World Hemophilia Day, including Christmas disease, migraine with aura, and other blood disorders. Here is a roundup of Bel Marra Health’s top articles discussing hemophilia and other blood ...click here to read more

Kidney disease linked to a common heartburn medication

A common heartburn drug has been linked to kidney disease. The findings highlight potential risks of a class of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which are commonly prescribed for conditions like chronic heartburn. Previous research has linked PPIs with nutrient deficiencies and bone-density loss. The FDA suggests that people be cautious of taking ...click here to read more