https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/health_medicine/chronic_illness/ Learn about coping with chronic illness. Read the latest research on chronic illnesses including new treatment options. en-us Thu, 16 Apr 2026 08:08:09 EDT Thu, 16 Apr 2026 08:08:09 EDT 60 https://www.sciencedaily.com/images/scidaily-logo-rss.png https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/health_medicine/chronic_illness/ For more science news, visit ScienceDaily. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260416071947.htm A rogue set of “zombie” immune cells may be driving aging and fatty liver disease by flooding tissues with inflammation. Researchers found these cells accumulate with age and high cholesterol—and can make up most of the liver’s immune cells in older mice. When scientists removed them, liver damage was dramatically reversed, even without diet changes. Thu, 16 Apr 2026 07:59:44 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260416071947.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260415043628.htm A surprising new clinical trial has revealed that metformin—a cheap, century-old drug widely used for type 2 diabetes—may help people with type 1 diabetes in an unexpected way. While researchers initially hoped it would reduce insulin resistance, they instead found it allows patients to use about 12% less insulin while maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Wed, 15 Apr 2026 23:50:27 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260415043628.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260414075646.htm A major new study reveals that treating gout may do far more than ease painful joint flare-ups—it could also protect the heart. Researchers found that patients who took common gout medications like allopurinol and successfully lowered their blood urate levels had a significantly reduced risk of heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular death over five years. Tue, 14 Apr 2026 23:11:38 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260414075646.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260413043129.htm New research reveals that obesity affects men and women in surprisingly different ways. Men are more likely to develop harmful abdominal fat and signs of liver stress, while women show higher inflammation and cholesterol levels. These differences could help explain why health risks vary between sexes. Scientists say this could lead to more tailored treatments for obesity. Mon, 13 Apr 2026 09:29:20 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260413043129.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260411022047.htm For years, scientists believed our lifespan was mostly shaped by environment and chance, with genetics playing only a minor role. But a new study from the Weizmann Institute flips that idea on its head, revealing that genes may actually account for about half of the differences in how long people live. By analyzing massive twin datasets—including twins raised apart—and using innovative simulations to filter out deaths from accidents and other external causes, researchers uncovered a hidden genetic influence that had been masked for decades. Mon, 13 Apr 2026 04:12:37 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260411022047.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260411022029.htm A new study reveals that popular diabetes and weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy may not work as effectively for about 10% of people due to specific genetic variants. These individuals appear to have a puzzling condition called “GLP-1 resistance,” where their bodies produce higher levels of the hormone targeted by these drugs—but don’t respond to it properly. Sun, 12 Apr 2026 08:58:54 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260411022029.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260411022027.htm A new nanodisc-based platform lets scientists study viral proteins in a form that closely mimics real viruses, revealing how antibodies truly recognize them. This approach uncovered hidden interactions in viruses like HIV and Ebola that traditional methods missed. By recreating the virus’s membrane environment, researchers can better understand how immune defenses work. The technique could speed up the development of more effective vaccines. Sun, 12 Apr 2026 06:42:12 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260411022027.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260411022023.htm Putting on weight earlier in life may be more dangerous than previously thought. Researchers found that early adulthood obesity significantly raises the risk of premature death, especially from major diseases like heart disease and diabetes. The longer the body carries excess weight, the greater the damage appears to be. Interestingly, cancer risk in women didn’t follow this pattern, suggesting other biological factors are at play. Sat, 11 Apr 2026 09:54:18 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260411022023.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260409101111.htm Alzheimer’s isn’t just one problem—it’s a tangled mix of biology, aging, and overall health. That’s why drugs targeting a single factor have fallen short, even as new treatments show modest benefits. Scientists are now pushing toward multi-pronged strategies, from gene editing to brain-cell rejuvenation and gut health interventions. The goal: stop treating Alzheimer’s as one disease and start tackling it as a complex system. Fri, 10 Apr 2026 10:12:15 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260409101111.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260408225944.htm A new study reveals that gut bacteria may play a key role in triggering ALS and frontotemporal dementia. Harmful sugars produced by these microbes can spark immune responses that damage the brain. This breakthrough explains why some genetically at-risk people develop the diseases while others don’t. Even more promising, reducing these sugars improved brain health in experiments, hinting at new treatment possibilities. Thu, 09 Apr 2026 06:36:40 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260408225944.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260408225941.htm Scientists are uncovering a surprising connection between autism and ADHD that goes deeper than labels. Instead of diagnoses, it’s the severity of autism-like traits that seems to shape how the brain is wired—even in children who don’t officially have autism. The study found that certain brain networks tied to thinking and social behavior stay unusually connected in kids with stronger autism symptoms, hinting at a different developmental path. Thu, 09 Apr 2026 08:21:49 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260408225941.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260408225933.htm Scientists have uncovered a surprising new player in Alzheimer’s disease: a protein called CSE that helps produce tiny amounts of hydrogen sulfide gas in the brain. In experiments with genetically engineered mice, removing this protein led to memory loss, brain damage, and other hallmarks of Alzheimer’s, including weakened blood-brain barriers and reduced formation of new neurons. The findings suggest that this “rotten egg” gas, when carefully regulated, may actually protect brain cells and support memory. Wed, 08 Apr 2026 22:59:33 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260408225933.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260406192913.htm A single week of intensive meditation and mind-body practices led to measurable changes across the brain and body. Researchers observed improved brain efficiency, boosted immune signaling, and increased natural pain relief chemicals in participants’ blood. The effects even promoted neuron growth and stronger brain connectivity. Surprisingly, the experience mirrored psychedelic-like brain states—without any drugs involved. Tue, 07 Apr 2026 03:56:04 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260406192913.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260406080131.htm Scientists have identified a little-known receptor, GPR133, as a powerful regulator of bone strength. By activating it with a newly discovered compound called AP503, they were able to boost bone density in mice and counteract osteoporosis-like damage. The finding opens the door to a new kind of treatment that could not only prevent bone loss but also rebuild weakened bones, offering fresh hope for millions affected by osteoporosis, especially aging populations. Mon, 06 Apr 2026 08:14:33 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260406080131.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260405065236.htm Scientists have uncovered a powerful new clue in the mystery of brain aging: a single protein called FTL1. In aging mice, higher levels of this protein weakened connections between brain cells and led to memory decline. But when researchers reduced FTL1, something remarkable happened — the brain began to recover, rebuilding lost connections and restoring memory performance. Sun, 05 Apr 2026 07:08:57 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260405065236.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260404082652.htm Many people think that occasional binge drinking is harmless if they otherwise drink in moderation, but new research suggests that assumption may be dangerously wrong. A large U.S. study found that people with metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), a condition affecting about one in three adults, face a much higher risk of serious liver scarring if they engage in heavy drinking even just once a month. Sat, 04 Apr 2026 08:29:44 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260404082652.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260403002027.htm A new study reveals that aging lungs may play a major role in why flu and COVID can become so dangerous for older adults. Researchers found that certain lung cells can trigger an exaggerated immune response, creating clusters of inflammatory cells that end up damaging lung tissue instead of protecting it. In experiments, activating this aging-related signal in young mice caused their lungs to behave like older ones, leading to severe illness. Fri, 03 Apr 2026 00:20:27 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260403002027.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260402000229.htm A new study suggests that one of the most widely used health metrics, BMI, may be getting it wrong for a large portion of the population. By comparing BMI classifications with precise body fat measurements using advanced DXA scans, researchers found that more than one-third of adults were placed in incorrect weight categories. Many people labeled as overweight or obese did not actually have the corresponding body fat levels, while others were missed entirely. Fri, 03 Apr 2026 00:19:13 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260402000229.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260331001107.htm A surprising breakthrough suggests that a drug best known as Viagra could help treat a devastating childhood disease. Researchers found that sildenafil significantly improved symptoms in patients with Leigh syndrome—a rare and often fatal disorder that affects the brain and muscles. In a small study, patients showed stronger muscles, fewer seizures, and better recovery from dangerous metabolic crises, with some experiencing dramatic improvements in mobility and daily life. Tue, 31 Mar 2026 08:33:45 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260331001107.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260330084511.htm A major analysis of nearly 10,000 patients shows that simple, non-drug treatments like knee braces, hydrotherapy, and exercise can significantly ease knee osteoarthritis symptoms. These approaches not only reduce pain and improve mobility, but also avoid the risks tied to common medications. The findings suggest that low-cost, accessible therapies could play a bigger role in how doctors treat arthritis in the future. Mon, 30 Mar 2026 08:52:03 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260330084511.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260330001126.htm Just a few minutes of getting out of breath each day could dramatically cut your risk of major diseases—including heart disease, dementia, and diabetes. A large study of nearly 100,000 people found that it’s not just how much you move, but how intensely you move that matters. Short bursts of vigorous activity—like rushing for a bus or climbing stairs quickly—were linked to striking reductions in disease risk, especially for inflammatory conditions and brain health. Mon, 30 Mar 2026 01:07:46 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260330001126.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328043602.htm What teens eat might matter more for their mental health than previously thought. A sweeping review of nearly 20 studies found that healthier diets are often linked to fewer depressive symptoms, while poor eating habits may go hand in hand with greater psychological distress. Interestingly, focusing on whole dietary patterns—not just individual nutrients—showed more consistent benefits, suggesting that overall eating habits could play a meaningful role during this critical stage of brain development. Sun, 29 Mar 2026 04:02:35 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328043602.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328043558.htm Scientists have developed a new gene therapy that quiets pain at its source in the brain—without the addictive risks of opioids. Using AI to map how pain is processed, they created a targeted “off switch” that mimics morphine’s benefits but skips its dangerous side effects. In early tests, it delivered lasting relief without affecting normal sensations. The discovery could mark a major step toward safer, non-addictive pain treatments. Sat, 28 Mar 2026 20:57:04 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328043558.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328043554.htm A major new U.S. cholesterol guideline is shifting the focus toward earlier, more personalized prevention of heart disease. It urges people to start screening sooner—sometimes even in childhood—and highlights the importance of tracking not just LDL (“bad”) cholesterol but also genetic risk factors like lipoprotein(a). A new, more advanced risk calculator now uses broader health data to better predict heart attack and stroke risk over decades. Sun, 29 Mar 2026 05:43:08 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328043554.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328024515.htm Scientists have identified a key biological system that helps brown fat burn energy by building the networks it needs to function. A protein called SLIT3 splits into two parts, with each piece guiding the growth of blood vessels and nerves inside brown fat. These structures allow the tissue to pull in nutrients and rapidly convert them into heat instead of storing them as fat. Sat, 28 Mar 2026 03:19:56 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328024515.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260326075559.htm Having both excess belly fat and low muscle mass isn’t just unhealthy—it’s potentially deadly, raising the risk of death by 83%. This condition, called sarcopenic obesity, creates a vicious cycle where fat accelerates muscle breakdown and inflammation. Researchers found it can be identified using simple measurements, not costly medical tests. That means earlier detection—and a real chance to intervene before serious decline sets in. Fri, 27 Mar 2026 01:23:23 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260326075559.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260326075552.htm A new study reveals that high doses of antioxidants—often seen as harmless or beneficial—may actually impact future generations. Male mice given common supplements like NAC produced offspring with subtle but significant facial and skull changes. Researchers believe this is tied to altered sperm DNA, even though the fathers showed no outward health issues. Fri, 27 Mar 2026 08:41:19 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260326075552.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260325055441.htm A major discovery reveals that metformin works not just in the body, but in the brain. By switching off a key protein and activating specific neurons, the drug lowers blood sugar through a previously hidden pathway, opening new doors for diabetes treatment. Wed, 25 Mar 2026 06:47:31 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260325055441.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260325005920.htm Researchers have identified a crucial ion channel, TMEM175, that acts like an overflow valve in the cell’s recycling system. It regulates acidity inside lysosomes, ensuring they function properly. When TMEM175 is faulty, toxic buildup can occur, contributing to diseases like Parkinson’s. This breakthrough reveals a promising new target for future therapies. Thu, 26 Mar 2026 07:35:07 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260325005920.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260325005914.htm By closely monitoring fish throughout their lives, researchers found that simple behaviors in midlife—like movement and sleep—can predict lifespan. Fish that stayed active and slept mostly at night tended to live longer, while those slowing down earlier lived shorter lives. Surprisingly, aging didn’t unfold smoothly but in sudden jumps between stages. The work suggests that tracking daily habits in humans could reveal early clues about how we age. Thu, 26 Mar 2026 07:18:41 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260325005914.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260324230057.htm New fathers appear to have fewer mental health diagnoses during pregnancy and the early months after birth. But that early stability does not last. About a year later, depression and stress-related disorders increase significantly, surprising researchers. The findings suggest that the emotional toll of fatherhood builds over time rather than hitting immediately. Tue, 24 Mar 2026 23:10:24 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260324230057.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260324080203.htm Researchers have identified microRNA-93 as a key genetic driver of fatty liver disease and discovered that vitamin B3 can effectively shut it down. This finding suggests a safe, widely available vitamin could become a powerful new treatment. Tue, 24 Mar 2026 08:09:15 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260324080203.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260324024253.htm A global team of leading scientists is zeroing in on a tiny but powerful molecule that could reshape how we age. Known as NAD⁺, it plays a crucial role in keeping our cells energized, repairing DNA, and maintaining overall health—but its levels steadily decline over time, potentially fueling diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Researchers are now exploring ways to boost NAD⁺ using compounds like NR and NMN, with early studies hinting at improvements in memory, metabolism, and physical function. Tue, 24 Mar 2026 06:39:06 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260324024253.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260323005545.htm A surprising new study reveals that blocking a supposedly protective enzyme, Caspase-2, could actually backfire—raising the risk of chronic liver damage and cancer over time. Researchers found that without this enzyme, liver cells grow abnormally large and accumulate genetic damage, leading to inflammation, scarring, and eventually tumors, especially with age. While inhibiting Caspase-2 may offer short-term benefits, such as reducing fatty liver disease, the long-term consequences appear dangerous. Mon, 23 Mar 2026 03:13:52 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260323005545.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260323005542.htm A new study suggests a widely used bone hormone could help relieve chronic back pain in an unexpected way. Instead of just strengthening bone, it appears to stop pain-sensing nerves from growing into damaged spinal areas. In animal models, this led to stronger spinal tissue and reduced pain sensitivity. The findings hint at a future treatment that tackles back pain at its biological roots. Mon, 23 Mar 2026 22:28:06 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260323005542.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260323005526.htm Scientists have uncovered a hidden “death switch” in the brain that may be driving Alzheimer’s disease—and even found a way to turn it off in mice. The culprit is a toxic pairing of two proteins that, when combined, triggers the destruction of brain cells and fuels memory loss. By using a new compound to break apart this deadly duo, researchers were able to slow disease progression, protect brain cells, and even reduce hallmark amyloid buildup. Mon, 23 Mar 2026 05:34:10 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260323005526.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260322020250.htm GLP-1 medications like semaglutide (Ozempic) may offer unexpected mental health benefits alongside weight loss. A large study found major drops in depression, anxiety, and psychiatric-related hospital visits among users. Even substance use disorders were significantly lower during treatment. Researchers suspect both lifestyle improvements and direct brain effects could be at play. Sun, 22 Mar 2026 08:03:11 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260322020250.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260319074604.htm Eating large amounts of ultra-processed foods like chips, frozen meals, sugary drinks, and packaged snacks may significantly raise the risk of serious heart problems. In a major U.S. study, people consuming around nine servings per day had a 67% higher risk of heart attacks, strokes, or death from heart disease compared to those eating about one serving. The risk didn’t just jump at high levels either. Each additional daily serving increased the likelihood of these events by more than 5%, even after accounting for calories, overall diet quality, and common health conditions. Thu, 19 Mar 2026 20:54:23 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260319074604.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260319074558.htm Carrying extra fat around the waist may be more dangerous than the number on the scale suggests. Researchers found that belly fat was more strongly linked to heart failure risk than BMI, even in people with normal weight. Inflammation seems to play a key role, helping explain why this type of fat is especially harmful. Measuring waist size could offer a simple way to detect hidden risk earlier. Thu, 19 Mar 2026 19:40:51 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260319074558.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260319044719.htm A common oral bacterium tied to gum disease may help spark and fuel breast cancer, according to new research. Scientists discovered it can travel through the bloodstream to breast tissue, where it causes DNA damage and speeds tumor growth and spread. It also appears to make cancer cells more aggressive and resistant to therapy. The effect is even stronger in people with BRCA1 mutations, raising new questions about the role of oral health in cancer risk. Thu, 19 Mar 2026 23:37:17 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260319044719.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260319044711.htm Aging men often lose the Y chromosome in a growing number of their cells—and it may be far more dangerous than once believed. This loss has been linked to heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer’s, and shorter lifespans. Researchers suspect Y-less cells may grow faster and disrupt normal body functions. What seemed like a minor genetic quirk could actually be a major driver of age-related disease. Fri, 20 Mar 2026 20:56:14 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260319044711.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260319044659.htm A shingles vaccine might double as a powerful heart protector. In people already at high risk, it cut major cardiac events by 46% and deaths by an impressive 66% within a year. Scientists think preventing shingles may also stop clot-related complications that can lead to heart attacks and strokes. The effect is so strong, it rivals the benefits of quitting smoking. Fri, 20 Mar 2026 08:10:25 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260319044659.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260319044656.htm The largest review of medicinal cannabis to date found it doesn’t effectively treat anxiety, depression, or PTSD—despite millions using it for those reasons. Researchers warn it could even make mental health worse, raising risks like psychosis and addiction while delaying proven treatments. Some limited benefits were seen for conditions like insomnia and autism, but the evidence is weak. The findings are fueling calls for stricter oversight as cannabis use continues to rise. Fri, 20 Mar 2026 08:27:27 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260319044656.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260319044648.htm Stopping popular weight-loss injections like Ozempic or Mounjaro might not trigger the dramatic rebound many fear. A large real-world study of nearly 8,000 patients found that most people who discontinue these drugs manage to keep the weight off—or even continue losing—by restarting treatment, switching medications, or adopting lifestyle changes. While earlier clinical trials suggested rapid weight regain, this new evidence paints a more hopeful picture. Thu, 19 Mar 2026 23:08:04 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260319044648.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260318033143.htm Scientists have mapped the genetics of cancer in cats for the first time at scale, uncovering major overlaps with human cancers. Key mutations—like those linked to breast cancer—appear in both species, and some human cancer drugs may also work in cats. Because pets share our environments, these similarities could reveal shared causes of cancer. The research could lead to new treatments that benefit both animals and humans. Wed, 18 Mar 2026 19:12:17 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260318033143.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260318033134.htm A risky but often lifesaving surgery that removes damaged parts of the small intestine can leave patients facing a new threat: serious liver damage with no available treatment. Now, scientists have developed a promising compound that works directly in the gut to shield the liver and improve how the body absorbs nutrients. In mouse studies, the drug boosted weight gain, reduced harmful liver scarring, and avoided side effects by staying confined to the intestines. Wed, 18 Mar 2026 03:31:34 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260318033134.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260317064444.htm Early life stress may set the stage for long-term digestive problems by disrupting the gut-brain connection. Studies in both mice and thousands of children found links to symptoms like pain, constipation, and IBS. Scientists discovered that different biological pathways control different gut issues, hinting at more personalized treatments in the future. The research also highlights how a child’s early environment can have lasting physical effects—not just emotional ones. Tue, 17 Mar 2026 22:08:54 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260317064444.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260317015928.htm Researchers have identified a surprising brain pattern that may help explain why people with ADHD often struggle to stay focused. Even while awake, their brains can slip into brief episodes of “sleep-like” activity during demanding tasks. These moments are linked to more mistakes, slower reaction times, and lapses in attention. Tue, 17 Mar 2026 02:25:43 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260317015928.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260315225156.htm A new clinical study suggests that successful root canal treatment may benefit more than just dental health. Patients treated for infected teeth showed improved blood sugar control, healthier cholesterol levels, and reduced inflammation over time. The infection can allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting metabolism and heart health. Clearing the infection appears to help reverse some of these harmful effects. Sun, 15 Mar 2026 22:51:56 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260315225156.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260315225125.htm A new UCLA Health study suggests that long-term exposure to the pesticide chlorpyrifos may dramatically raise the risk of Parkinson’s disease. Researchers found that people living in areas with sustained exposure had more than 2.5 times the likelihood of developing the disorder. Lab experiments reinforced the finding: animals exposed to the chemical developed movement problems, lost dopamine-producing neurons, and showed the same toxic protein buildup seen in Parkinson’s patients. Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:49:45 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260315225125.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260315225121.htm A redesigned cancer immunotherapy is showing striking early results after decades of disappointment with similar drugs. Researchers engineered a more powerful CD40 agonist antibody and changed how it’s delivered—injecting it directly into tumors instead of into the bloodstream. In a small clinical trial of 12 patients with metastatic cancers, six saw their tumors shrink and two experienced complete remission. Mon, 16 Mar 2026 20:18:42 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260315225121.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260315004407.htm Melatonin is now widely used to help children sleep, but scientists say the enthusiasm may be getting ahead of the evidence. A major review found clear benefits for children with conditions like autism and ADHD, yet far less data exists for typical childhood insomnia. Researchers also warn about mislabeled supplement doses and rising accidental ingestions among young kids. Experts say melatonin should be used carefully and only alongside proven behavioral sleep strategies. Sun, 15 Mar 2026 07:08:26 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260315004407.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/2026/03/260314030507.htm A protein tied to ALS and dementia may have a much bigger role in disease than scientists realized. Researchers found that TDP43 controls a key DNA repair process, but when the protein becomes imbalanced, the repair system can spiral out of control, harming neurons and destabilizing DNA. The team also discovered that high levels of the protein are linked to increased mutation rates in cancer. The discovery places TDP43 at the center of both neurodegeneration and cancer biology. Sun, 15 Mar 2026 00:05:53 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260314030507.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260313055130.htm A severe case of COVID-19 or influenza could increase the risk of lung cancer later on, according to new research. Scientists discovered that serious viral infections can alter immune cells in the lungs, leaving behind chronic inflammation that may help tumors develop months or years later. The increased risk was seen mainly after severe infections that required hospitalization. Vaccination, however, appears to prevent the dangerous lung changes. Fri, 13 Mar 2026 05:56:17 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260313055130.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260313002637.htm Tiny plastic particles may be quietly threatening brain health. New research suggests microplastics—now widely found in food, water, and even household dust—could trigger inflammation and damage in the brain through multiple biological pathways. Scientists estimate adults may consume about 250 grams of these particles each year, and some can accumulate in organs including the brain. Fri, 13 Mar 2026 20:38:26 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260313002637.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260312020107.htm Researchers have discovered a surprising change in how cells produce energy in people with depression. Brain and blood cells in young adults with major depressive disorder produced more energy molecules at rest but had trouble increasing energy production when needed. Scientists believe this imbalance may contribute to symptoms such as fatigue and low motivation. The finding could help pave the way for earlier diagnosis and more personalized treatments. Thu, 12 Mar 2026 07:09:13 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260312020107.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260312020104.htm A new study suggests Alzheimer’s disease may be detectable through subtle shape changes in proteins found in the blood. Researchers discovered that structural differences in three blood proteins closely track the progression of the disease. By analyzing these changes in more than 500 people, the team was able to distinguish healthy individuals from those with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s with impressive accuracy. The approach could help move diagnosis and treatment to earlier stages. Thu, 12 Mar 2026 07:00:56 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260312020104.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260309225222.htm Colorblindness may be doing more than making traffic lights confusing — it could also be hiding a life-threatening warning sign. Researchers analyzing millions of medical records found that people with bladder cancer who are also colorblind have a 52% higher mortality rate over 20 years compared to those with normal vision. The likely reason: many people with color vision deficiency struggle to see red, making it harder to notice blood in urine, the most common early sign of bladder cancer. Tue, 10 Mar 2026 01:49:43 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260309225222.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260309225146.htm Scientists at Oregon Health & Science University have developed a new molecule that could open the door to treating triple-negative breast cancer, one of the most aggressive and difficult-to-treat forms of the disease. The compound, called SU212, targets and disables a key enzyme that cancer cells rely on to fuel their growth. In tests using humanized mouse models, the molecule caused tumors to shrink and slowed the spread of cancer by forcing the enzyme to break down. Tue, 10 Mar 2026 18:10:14 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260309225146.htm