HEALTH & WELLNESS

Family matters: Why genetic cancer testing is important (BPT) - When someone in your family is diagnosed with cancer, it can raise questions. Is it a coincidence, or is there something that runs in the family that makes others more likely to get it too? For Jodi, whose mother was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 51, and whose maternal grandfather was diagnosed with the same disease at 55, those questions were top of mind from a young age. Her family history instilled a fear of the unknown — was she at elevated risk too? For women like Jodi who have a family history of cancer, the possibility of what genetic testing might reveal can be scary, yet having answers can be empowering. "You know, I had always been very afraid of cancer because of my family history," Jodi shared. "And not ju...

More Americans meet criteria for high blood pressure under new guidelines. Nearly half of all Americans have high blood pressure – a condition called hypertension. Hypertension is the No. 1 risk factor for heart disease and stroke. In addition, hypertension increases risk of dementia and cognitive decline. Heart disease, stroke and dementia are the first-, fourth- and sixth-leading causes of death in the U.S. Unfortunately, only 1 in 4 people with a history of high blood pressure have this condition under control. In August 2025, the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology released new guidelines on prevention and management of hypertension, based on a comprehensive analysis of literature published over the past 10 years. The Conversation U.S. asked cardiolo...

Discover how mental health directly impacts physical wellness. Learn practical tips to reduce stress, improve sleep, and boost immunity for holistic well-being. In recent years, health experts have increasingly emphasized the intricate connection between mental and physical health. It’s no longer enough to focus solely on diet and exercise—mental well-being plays a critical role in overall wellness. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can trigger physical symptoms ranging from headaches and fatigue to heart disease and digestive issues. Research shows that prolonged stress elevates cortisol levels, a hormone linked to weight gain, high blood pressure, and immune dysfunction. Meanwhile, positive mental states, including mindfulness, gratitude, and meditation, can lower stress, reduce ...

Mindful mornings are transforming daily routines with yoga, meditation, and intentional habits. Discover how starting your day with presence boosts well-being and productivity. In an age of endless notifications and back-to-back schedules, more people are reclaiming their mornings as a sacred time to set the tone for the day ahead. The “mindful morning” movement is gaining traction among wellness enthusiasts, productivity experts, and even high-performance entrepreneurs who believe that how you start your day determines how you live it. The Essence of a Mindful Morning A mindful morning is more than just waking up early—it’s about beginning the day with intention, presence, and self-care. Instead of immediately diving into emails or social media, mindful mornings prioritize practi...

How germy is the public pool? An infectious disease expert weighs in on poop, pee and perspiration – and the deceptive smell of chlorine. On hot summer days, few things are more refreshing than a dip in the pool. But have you ever wondered if the pool is as clean as that crystal blue water appears? As an immunologist and infectious disease specialist, I study how germs spread in public spaces and how to prevent the spread. I even teach a course called “The Infections of Leisure” where we explore the risks tied to recreational activities and discuss precautions, while also taking care not to turn students into germophobes. Swimming, especially in public pools and water parks, comes with its own unique set of risks — from minor skin irritations to gastrointestinal infections. But swimmi...