https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/health_medicine/smoking/ How smoking affects health. Read about the latest research on smoking, second-hand smoke, methods for quitting smoking and more. en-us Mon, 20 Apr 2026 02:48:09 EDT Mon, 20 Apr 2026 02:48:09 EDT 60 https://www.sciencedaily.com/images/scidaily-logo-rss.png https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/health_medicine/smoking/ For more science news, visit ScienceDaily. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260417224454.htm A surprising new study suggests that eating a very healthy diet—packed with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains—might be linked to a higher risk of lung cancer in younger non-smokers. Researchers found that patients under 50 diagnosed with lung cancer often had better-than-average diets, raising the possibility that pesticide exposure from conventionally grown produce could be a hidden culprit. Fri, 17 Apr 2026 23:27:27 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260417224454.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328043552.htm Nicotine e-cigarettes may be one of the most effective tools yet for quitting smoking, according to a sweeping review of global research. By analyzing findings from 14 major reviews spanning nearly a decade, researchers found consistent, high-quality evidence showing that nicotine vapes outperform traditional methods like patches, gum, and even behavioral support. While some lower-quality studies produced mixed results, the strongest data clearly favored nicotine e-cigarettes. Sun, 29 Mar 2026 03:36:58 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328043552.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260315001844.htm A new study in mice suggests that a father’s nicotine exposure could influence the metabolic health of his children. Researchers found that when male mice consumed nicotine, their offspring showed changes in how their bodies handled sugar, including differences in insulin and glucose levels and altered liver function. These shifts may be linked to a higher risk of diabetes and related metabolic diseases. Sun, 15 Mar 2026 01:42:15 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260315001844.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260215085001.htm Researchers tracked more than 400 toddlers to see whether mRNA COVID-19 vaccination during or just before pregnancy was linked to autism or developmental delays. After detailed assessments of speech, motor skills, behavior, and social development, they found no meaningful differences between vaccinated and unvaccinated groups. Experts say the results provide strong reassurance about vaccine safety in pregnancy. Sun, 15 Feb 2026 09:51:05 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260215085001.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260126075839.htm Home fireplaces and wood stoves are quietly driving a large share of winter air pollution, even though only a small number of households rely on wood heat. Researchers found that wood smoke accounts for over one-fifth of Americans’ winter exposure to dangerous fine particles linked to heart disease and early death. Much of this pollution drifts into cities, where it disproportionately harms people of color. Reducing wood burning could deliver major public health benefits. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 08:03:13 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260126075839.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260106224644.htm Global cancer cases have surged dramatically, doubling since 1990 and reaching 18.5 million new diagnoses in 2023. Deaths have also climbed to over 10 million a year, with the steepest increases hitting low- and middle-income countries. Without urgent action, researchers project more than 30 million new cases annually by 2050. Alarmingly, around four in ten cancer deaths are tied to preventable risks such as smoking, poor diet, and high blood sugar. Wed, 07 Jan 2026 02:57:53 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260106224644.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251228013709.htm New research suggests that even light alcohol use may carry serious risks. A large study in India found that drinking just one standard drink a day is linked to a roughly 50% higher risk of mouth cancer, with the greatest danger tied to locally brewed alcohol. When alcohol use overlaps with chewing tobacco, the effect becomes especially severe, potentially explaining nearly two-thirds of all cases nationwide. Tue, 30 Dec 2025 20:58:22 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251228013709.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251225080723.htm Tramadol, a popular opioid often seen as a “safer” painkiller, may not live up to its reputation. A large analysis of clinical trials found that while it does reduce chronic pain, the relief is modest—so small that many patients likely wouldn’t notice much real-world benefit. At the same time, tramadol was linked to a significantly higher risk of serious side effects, especially heart-related problems like chest pain and heart failure, along with common issues such as nausea, dizziness, and sleepiness. Thu, 25 Dec 2025 11:52:44 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251225080723.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251202052234.htm Researchers have solved the decades-old mystery behind how a common pregnancy drug lowers blood pressure. It turns out the medication blocks a fast-acting “oxygen alarm” inside cells. That same alarm helps brain tumors survive, meaning the drug unexpectedly weakens them, too. The discovery could inspire better treatments for both preeclampsia and brain cancer. Tue, 02 Dec 2025 23:15:16 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251202052234.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251122000802.htm People who smoke only a couple of cigarettes a day still face surprisingly high risks of heart problems and early death. A large review of long-term studies shows that even very light smokers can see their risk of heart failure climb sharply. While quitting leads to major health improvements, some risk remains for decades. The safest approach is quitting entirely, especially at younger ages. Sat, 22 Nov 2025 00:19:55 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251122000802.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251115095932.htm Scientists found that people who use both cannabis and tobacco show a distinct brain pattern tied to mood and stress regulation. Their scans revealed higher levels of an enzyme that reduces a natural feel-good molecule in the brain. This imbalance may help explain why co-users experience more anxiety and struggle more when quitting. Sat, 15 Nov 2025 23:15:04 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251115095932.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251112111029.htm Smoking, vaping, or using both products significantly increases the likelihood of developing prediabetes and diabetes, and the risk is even higher among Hispanic, Black, and low-income groups. Researchers found that vaping alone raises prediabetes risk, while combining cigarettes and e-cigarettes drives those odds up dramatically. Thu, 13 Nov 2025 07:16:40 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251112111029.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251105050722.htm Most U.S. adults don’t realize alcohol raises cancer risk, and drinkers themselves are the least aware. Scientists say targeting these misbeliefs could significantly reduce alcohol-related cancer deaths. Wed, 05 Nov 2025 11:42:37 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251105050722.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251026021746.htm GLP-1 drugs, originally developed for diabetes and obesity, may also curb addictive behaviors by acting on reward circuits in the brain. Early trials show reductions in alcohol intake, opioid seeking, and nicotine use. Though more research is needed, scientists believe these drugs could open a powerful new front in addiction therapy. Sun, 26 Oct 2025 13:14:29 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251026021746.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251002073959.htm Penn researchers found that psilocybin can calm brain circuits tied to pain and mood, easing both physical suffering and emotional distress in animal studies. The compound works in the anterior cingulate cortex, bypassing injury sites and offering a dual benefit for pain and depression. Unlike opioids, psilocybin is non-addictive and may provide relief lasting weeks. Thu, 02 Oct 2025 09:10:21 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251002073959.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250929054923.htm Morning sickness isn’t just random misery—it’s a biological defense system shaped by evolution to protect the fetus. By linking immune responses to nausea and food aversions, UCLA researchers show these symptoms are signs of a healthy pregnancy. Mon, 29 Sep 2025 22:50:17 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250929054923.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250929054915.htm Researchers found that middle-aged adults, especially women, are far more likely to be addicted to ultra-processed foods than older generations. Marketing of diet-focused processed foods in the 1980s may have played a major role. Food addiction was linked to poor health, weight issues, and social isolation, highlighting long-term risks. Experts warn that children today could face even higher addiction rates in the future. Mon, 29 Sep 2025 09:57:42 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250929054915.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250927031211.htm Ultra-processed foods make up the bulk of U.S. diets, and new research links high intake to inflammation, a predictor of heart disease. People consuming the most UPFs were far more likely to show elevated hs-CRP levels, especially older adults, smokers, and those with obesity. Scientists warn that UPFs may contribute to cancer and other chronic illnesses, urging stronger health policies despite pushback from powerful food companies. Sat, 27 Sep 2025 11:11:04 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250927031211.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250919085235.htm For decades, scientists have puzzled over why smoking makes Crohn’s disease worse but seems to protect people from ulcerative colitis. Now, researchers at RIKEN have discovered that smoking creates metabolites like hydroquinone that allow mouth bacteria—especially Streptococcus mitis—to settle in the gut. These bacteria spark an immune response that reduces inflammation in colitis but worsens Crohn’s. The findings open the door to new therapies using probiotics or targeted compounds that mimic smoking’s protective effects without its deadly risks. Fri, 19 Sep 2025 20:28:11 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250919085235.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250918225016.htm Wildfires are no longer a seasonal nuisance but a deadly, nationwide health crisis. Fueled by climate change, smoke is spreading farther and lingering longer, with new research warning of tens of thousands of additional deaths annually by mid-century. The health costs alone could surpass all other climate damages combined, revealing wildfire smoke as one of the most underestimated threats of our warming world. Fri, 19 Sep 2025 07:53:58 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250918225016.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250724040940.htm A massive global survey has revealed that people with eating disorders often turn to cannabis and psychedelics like magic mushrooms and LSD to ease their symptoms, rating them more effective than traditional medications. Surprisingly, common prescriptions like antidepressants were seen as helpful for overall mental health but fell short for eating disorder relief. Thu, 24 Jul 2025 10:42:21 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250724040940.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250718031218.htm In a groundbreaking UK first, eight healthy babies have been born using an IVF technique that includes DNA from three people—two parents and a female donor. The process, known as pronuclear transfer, was designed to prevent the inheritance of devastating mitochondrial diseases passed down through the mother’s DNA. The early results are highly promising: all the babies are developing normally, and the disease-causing mutations are undetectable or present at levels too low to cause harm. For families once haunted by genetic risk, this science offers more than treatment—it offers transformation. Fri, 18 Jul 2025 10:05:48 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250718031218.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250714014133.htm A massive spike in young children accidentally ingesting nicotine pouches has alarmed poison control researchers, with a 763% rise reported between 2020 and 2023. Unlike other nicotine products, these pouches have quickly become the most dangerous form ingested, often leading to hospital visits. Experts say appealing packaging and flavors are part of the problem and they're pushing for tougher safety measures, including childproof storage and flavor bans. Mon, 14 Jul 2025 01:41:33 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250714014133.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250709091702.htm Midlife sleep habits may matter more than previously thought. A large study finds that poor sleep, alongside high blood pressure and nicotine use, sharply increases the risk of heart problems in menopausal women yet only 1 in 5 score well on overall heart health. Wed, 09 Jul 2025 09:17:02 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250709091702.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250705084324.htm A group of scientists studying pregnancy across six different mammals—from humans to marsupials—uncovered how certain cells at the mother-baby boundary have been working together for over 100 million years. By mapping gene activity in these cells, they found that pregnancy isn’t just a battle between mother and fetus, but often a carefully coordinated partnership. These ancient cell interactions, including hormone production and nutrient sharing, evolved to support longer, more complex pregnancies and may help explain why human pregnancy works the way it does today. Sun, 06 Jul 2025 07:22:19 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250705084324.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250701020649.htm Teen vaping is changing fast — and not in a good way. A large national study found that more adolescents are vaping THC, CBD, and especially synthetic cannabinoids, which are often unregulated and far more dangerous. Even more troubling, many teens don’t know what’s in their vape pens at all. Researchers also found that girls are now more likely than boys to vape these substances. As these mysterious and risky chemicals gain popularity, scientists are sounding the alarm about the urgent need for better education, regulation, and awareness. Tue, 01 Jul 2025 11:00:00 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250701020649.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250629033449.htm Smoke from wildfires and structural fires doesn t just irritate lungs it actually changes your immune system. Harvard scientists found that even healthy people exposed to smoke showed signs of immune system activation, genetic changes tied to allergies, and even toxic metals inside their immune cells. Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:29:09 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250629033449.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250610230533.htm Scientists have discovered that people with COPD have lung cells that contain over three times as much soot-like carbon as those of smokers without the disease. These overloaded cells are larger and trigger more inflammation, suggesting that pollution and carbon buildup not just smoking may drive the disease. Tue, 10 Jun 2025 23:05:33 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250610230533.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250528131547.htm A new study finds that chronic cannabis use -- whether it's smoked or consumed in edible form -- is associated with significant cardiovascular risks. Wed, 28 May 2025 13:15:47 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250528131547.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250527180929.htm With wildfires increasing in frequency, severity, and size in the Western U.S., researchers are determined to better understand how smoke impacts air quality, public health, and even the weather. As fires burn, they release enormous amounts of aerosols -- the vaporized remains of burning trees and homes that enter the atmosphere and the air we breathe. Now, a new study dissects these aerosols and gases to pinpoint their potential effects on our health as well as the planet's short and long-term weather. Tue, 27 May 2025 18:09:29 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250527180929.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250527124229.htm The U.S. is facing a maternal health crisis with higher rates of maternal mortality than any other high-income country. Social and economic factors, including income, are recognized determinants of maternal morbidity and mortality. In addition, more than half of pregnancy-related deaths (deaths occurring during pregnancy or within one year after delivery) occur in the postpartum year. In what is believed to be the first review to summarize evidence on the effect of unconditional cash transfers (UCTs) on postpartum health outcomes in the U.S., researchers have found strong evidence that UCTs increase breastfeeding rates and result in little to no difference in postpartum mood. Tue, 27 May 2025 12:42:29 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250527124229.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250527124117.htm A new study reveals a concerning decline in self-reported mental health among mothers in the United States between 2016 and 2023. The study also found modest but measurable declines in self-reported physical health during the same period. Tue, 27 May 2025 12:41:17 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250527124117.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250514111245.htm Postpartum maternal mental health and mother-to-infant bonding are well-established as critical factors in a child's psychosocial development. However, few studies have explored the combined impact of postpartum maternal depression and early bonding experiences on emotional and behavioral difficulties during middle childhood. A new study reveals significant associations between postpartum depression, mother-to-infant bonding, and child difficulties. Notably, secure early bonding was found to partially buffer the long-term effects of postpartum depression on child outcomes. Wed, 14 May 2025 11:12:45 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250514111245.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250507125702.htm A research team has adapted an intervention for childhood obesity prevention to better serve Latina mothers, non-maternal caregivers, and families of low-income backgrounds in Inland Southern California. The study could make significant contributions to public health by ensuring that early childhood obesity prevention strategies begin in infancy with infant feeding and are culturally and linguistically relevant for immigrant communities. Wed, 07 May 2025 12:57:02 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250507125702.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250505204918.htm A systematic evidence review finds that consuming cannabis while pregnant appears to increase the odds of preterm birth, low birth weight and infant death. Mon, 05 May 2025 20:49:18 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250505204918.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250505170833.htm Research led by VCU and Rutgers University provides new insights into how the people we love affect our health. Mon, 05 May 2025 17:08:33 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250505170833.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250428220929.htm A new study offers fresh insight into trends in maternal mortality in the United States. For the first time, the study disentangles genuine changes in health outcomes from shifts caused by how deaths are recorded. Nevertheless, the study confirms the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on maternal death rates for women of all racial and ethnic groups. Mon, 28 Apr 2025 22:09:29 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250428220929.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250428220258.htm Ketamine addiction is linked to high levels of physical health problems and psychological consequences, with nearly half of those affected not seeking support or treatment, new research has revealed. Mon, 28 Apr 2025 22:02:58 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250428220258.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250408121337.htm Researchers estimated that smoke from wildfires and prescribed burns caused $200 billion in health damages in 2017, and that these were associated with 20,000 premature deaths. Senior citizens were harmed the most, and Native American and Black communities experienced the greatest damages per capita. Tue, 08 Apr 2025 12:13:37 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250408121337.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250401131012.htm A research group has uncovered a potential mechanism linking maternal inflammation to delayed neurodevelopment in infants. The research suggests the role of CD11c-positive microglia -- immune cells in the brain crucial for myelination -- during infant brain development. Their findings suggest new strategies to mitigate the long-term neurodevelopmental effects of maternal inflammation. Tue, 01 Apr 2025 13:10:12 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250401131012.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/03/250326123310.htm Many youth have heart disease risk factors by their late teens, and preventing or addressing these risks early may reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease in the future, according to a new scientific statement. Wed, 26 Mar 2025 12:33:10 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/03/250326123310.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/03/250318141840.htm Marijuana is now legal in many places, but is it safe? Two new studies add to mounting evidence that people who use cannabis are more likely to suffer a heart attack than people who do not use the drug, even among younger and otherwise healthy adults. The findings are from a retrospective study of over 4.6 million people and a meta-analysis of 12 previously published studies. Tue, 18 Mar 2025 14:18:40 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/03/250318141840.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/03/250305164326.htm Engineers have developed a pioneering prosthetic hand that can grip plush toys, water bottles, and other everyday objects like a human, carefully conforming and adjusting its grasp to avoid damaging or mishandling whatever it holds. Wed, 05 Mar 2025 16:43:26 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/03/250305164326.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/03/250305134819.htm Researchers have developed a compound that relieves pain in mice but doesn't affect the brain, thereby avoiding mind-altering side effects and abuse potential. The custom-designed molecule, derived from cannabis, may provide an alternative to opioids for treating chronic pain. Wed, 05 Mar 2025 13:48:19 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/03/250305134819.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/03/250303141648.htm New research reveals that a mother's diet during pregnancy -- characterized by a Western dietary pattern high in fat and sugar and low in fresh ingredients -- may increase the risk of neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD and autism in children. Researchers see potential for targeted dietary interventions during pregnancy to reduce this risk. Mon, 03 Mar 2025 14:16:48 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/03/250303141648.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/02/250225122049.htm Identifying and treating risk factors for depression, anxiety and other psychological health conditions during pregnancy and postpartum may improve short- and long-term health outcomes for both mother and child, according to a new scientific statement. Tue, 25 Feb 2025 12:20:49 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/02/250225122049.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/02/250219105932.htm Very early exposure to even a very small dose of herpes simplex virus (HSV) in infant mice can lead to cognitive decline later in life, according to new findings. This is significant because of emerging data in human studies showing an association between HSV and Alzheimer's disease in humans. Wed, 19 Feb 2025 10:59:32 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/02/250219105932.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/02/250212151423.htm A biohybrid hand which can move objects and do a scissor gesture has been created. The researchers used thin strings of lab-grown muscle tissue bundled into sushilike rolls to give the fingers enough strength to contract. These multiple muscle tissue actuators (MuMuTAs), created by the researchers, are a major development towards building larger biohybrid limbs. While currently limited to the lab environment, MuMuTAs have the potential to advance future biohybrid prosthetics, aid drug testing on muscle tissue and broaden the potential of biohybrid robotics to mimic real-life forms. Wed, 12 Feb 2025 15:14:23 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/02/250212151423.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/02/250211134626.htm Children exposed to second-hand smoke at home are more likely to show certain changes in the epigenome, which can alter the way genes are expressed. These epigenetic changes could influence the development of diseases in the future. Tue, 11 Feb 2025 13:46:26 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/02/250211134626.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/02/250210153929.htm Scientists have demonstrated a new method for detecting the presence of dangerous chemicals from tobacco smoke in human placenta with unprecedented speed and precision. Mon, 10 Feb 2025 15:39:29 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/02/250210153929.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/02/250206223911.htm Researchers have achieved total chemical synthesis of the psychoactive compound ibogaine and its analogs from pyridine. The discovery will make it easier to explore the therapeutic possibilities of ibogaine. Thu, 06 Feb 2025 22:39:11 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/02/250206223911.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/02/250204132227.htm Maternal stress could leave epigenetic imprints on genes in the placenta associated with cortisol -- a necessary hormone for fetal development -- and this would affect the baby's development from very early stages. The study suggests that a mother's emotional wellbeing during pregnancy is not only important for her, but could also influence the future health of her baby. Tue, 04 Feb 2025 13:22:27 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/02/250204132227.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/02/250203142730.htm The risk of being admitted to the hospital with heart disease is twice as high the year after birth for mothers of twins compared to singleton births, according to new research. The risk is even higher in mothers of twins who had a high blood pressure condition during pregnancy. Mon, 03 Feb 2025 14:27:30 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/02/250203142730.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/02/250203142252.htm The stillbirth rate in Europe has been steadily improving over the last few decades, but there are some exceptions. In Germany and Belgium, rates have significantly increased since 2010, while other European countries have seen declines or stability. Researchers have investigated how factors like increasing maternal age and multiple births may have influenced these trends and differences across Europe. The analyses indicate that these factors explain only a small portion of the variations. Mon, 03 Feb 2025 14:22:52 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/02/250203142252.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/02/250203141805.htm Maternal vitamin D levels in the first trimester were related to both prenatal growth and pregnancy outcomes, according to a new study. Low vitamin D levels during the first trimester of pregnancy were associated with higher rates of preterm birth and decreased fetal length. Mon, 03 Feb 2025 14:18:05 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/02/250203141805.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/01/250127124438.htm Heart disease remains the world’s top killer, with nearly 2,500 Americans dying daily from cardiovascular conditions. The American Heart Association’s new data highlight how high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes are deeply interlinked and surging across populations. Experts warn that unless prevention and access improve, these trends could triple cardiovascular health care costs by 2050. Mon, 27 Jan 2025 12:44:38 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/01/250127124438.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/01/250123131843.htm Researchers analyzed cannabis smoking practices to assess whether in-home smoking was associated with cannabis detection in children. Thu, 23 Jan 2025 13:18:43 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/01/250123131843.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/01/250122130203.htm Maternal stress hormone levels during early pregnancy can have a lasting effect on the stress system of the offspring. The results of a long-term study on wild Assamese macaques in Thailand indicate that maternal stress in the first half of pregnancy is particularly relevant. Elevated stress hormones later during pregnancy or after birth did not have the same effects. The long-term study provides important insights into the influence of early life stages on the development of the stress system under natural environmental conditions. Wed, 22 Jan 2025 13:02:03 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/01/250122130203.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/01/250111174005.htm People who have limited access to air conditioning may be at higher risk of seeking emergency care for health problems following exposure to wildfire smoke, according to a new study. The study found that exposure to fine particle matter (PM2.5) from wildfire smoke in California is associated with higher rates of emergency department visits for all causes, non-accidental causes, and respiratory disease. This risk varied by age and race, but was especially high for individuals who lived in areas with lower availability of air conditioning. Sat, 11 Jan 2025 17:40:05 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/01/250111174005.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/12/241230131913.htm A study of nearly 10,000 adolescents has identified distinct differences in the brain structures of those who used substances before age 15 compared to those who did not. Many of these structural brain differences appeared to exist in childhood before any substance use, suggesting they may play a role in the risk of substance use initiation later in life, in tandem with genetic, environmental, and other neurological factors. Mon, 30 Dec 2024 13:19:13 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/12/241230131913.htm