Flu-Linked Brain Swelling Is Rare in Kids, But It Can Be Fatal

A life-threatening condition involving out-of-control brain swelling can occur in kids who are battling the flu, but it’s extremely rare. 

A review of recent cases highlights the importance of quick diagnosis and aggressive treatment to saving the lives of kids with the condition, called influenza-associated acute necrotizing en...

Bans on Flavored Vapes Have Pros And Cons, Study Finds

State bans on enticing flavors of e-cigarettes bring real benefits in terms of lowering vaping among adults of any age, new research finds.

But it points to a downside, too: A slowdown in statewide declines of cigarette smoking after flavored vapes were banned. 

“Both e-cigarettes and combustible cigarettes are essentially...

Could a Single Shot at Birth Shield Kids From HIV for Years?

There’s potentially exciting news from a trial conducted in monkeys:  A single shot of gene therapy given to newborn monkeys appears to shield them from HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, for at least three years.

Of course, studies conducted in animals don’t always pan out in humans. But scientists say that if it does, it c...

How Old Is Your Heart? It Could Be Aging Faster Than You Are

Researchers who’ve developed a new “heart age” calculator say many Americans have unhealthy hearts that are physiologically older than their chronological age, with men faring worse than women.

The research team theorizes that telling folks their heart age might help spur them to healthier lifestyles and treatment.

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You Might Inhale 68,000 Microplastics Per Day

THURSDAY, July 31, 2025 (HeathDay News) — Scientists say the average person may be inhaling microscopic, lung-penetrating plastic particles at a rate that’s 100 times what was previously assumed: 68,000 per day. 

“Everywhere we look, we find microplastics, even in the air we breathe inside our homes and cars,” ...

U.S. Senate Confirms Infection Expert as New CDC Director

After months with an appointed caretaker, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) finally has an official director.

Dr. Susan Monarez, who became the agency’s acting director in March after anti-vaccine skepticism tanked President Donald Trump’s original nominee for the post, was confirmed Tuesday in a 52-47 S...