Resolution to require study of response to hepatitis A outbreak, and recommendations to avoid a repeat, failed in the legislature

Hepatitis A vaccine (USA Today photo by Nikki Boliaux) The state Cabinet for Health and Family Services won't have to conduct a study of its response to the hepatitis A outbreak that has killed at least 52 in the state and is the nation's worst outbreak of the liver disease. It also won't have to make recommendations...

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Medical News Today: The 'burden of disease' in those who recover from addiction

A recent investigation into health conditions that develop in people recovering from addiction reveals that more than one-third have a chronic diseas...

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Medical News Today: Could reused cooking oil trigger breast cancer spread?

A new study in mice finds that reused cooking oil may encourage breast cancer metastases. These preliminary results are sure to spark more researc...

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Medical News Today: What causes bloody urine in men?

Seeing blood in the urine is a symptom of many underlying problems in males, including infections, an enlarged prostate, and kidney stones. Learn about the causes and their treatments her...

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Medical News Today: How to stop getting sick

Some people find that they keep getting sick. Potential causes of frequent sickness include stress and lack of sleep. Lifestyle changes can help reduce the likelihood of a person becoming ill. Learn more about why some people keep getting sick and what to do about it her...

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Medical News Today: What are the most healthful oils?

Healthful oils are an essential part of all diets. In this article, we compare some of the most popular oils, looking at their health benefits, nutrition, and uses in cooking. We include olive oil, coconut oil, canola oil, and vegetable oi...

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Drug makers' payments to doctors may influence their choice of what drugs to prescribe, and that can cost patients real money

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Medical News Today: Wishing others well may boost your own well-being

New research has found a simple psychological technique that could reduce stress and anxiety and make people happier in just 12 minute...

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Medical News Today: Music may enhance the effect of pain relievers

Can music soothe pain? A new study in mice finds that listening to Mozart alongside taking standard pain medication works better than drugs alon...

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Medical News Today: What does herpes look like?

Herpes is a condition caused by the herpes simplex virus. People may notice herpes symptoms across the body, including in the mouth, on the genitals, or in the eyes. This article discusses what herpes looks like, describes the symptoms, and provides pictures to help identify herpe...

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Medical News Today: Causes and treatment of foot cramp

There are several possible causes of foot cramps, including overexercising, nutrient deficiencies, and dehydration. In this article, we explore the causes of foot cramps and their treatment...

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Medical News Today: Ulcerative colitis medications and other options

Ulcerative colitis medications include corticosteroids and immunomodulators. Other medical and natural treatments, such as surgery or nutrition, may also help. Learn more her...

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20 test positive for E.coli, six hospitalized, mostly in Central Ky.; state health department searching for source

E. coli symptoms (Graphic by JR Bee, Verywell Health) Twenty Kentuckians have tested positive for an infection caused by a strain of E. coli bacteria, and public health officials say they have not yet identified the source of the outbreak, the state Department for Public Health said. Investigators said...

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Medical News Today: Possible reasons weight loss is not working

Efforts to lose weight may not work for a range of reasons. A person may be following an ineffective fad diet, or consuming sugary drinks, or exercising more but making no dietary changes, for example. Learn more her...

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Bill to require 'reasonable accommodations' to pregnant women at work passes on last day of legislative session

By Melissa Patrick Kentucky Health News FRANKFORT, Ky. -- A bill that allows pregnant women "reasonable accommodations" while at work, and supports breastfeeding, passed on the last day of the legislative session. It awaits action by Gov. Matt Bevin, whose decision will be final because it passed on the last day Sen....

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State health department funds mobile syringe exchange for Laurel, Whitley, Knox, Clay and Jackson counties

A mobile syringe exchange will go to five Eastern Kentucky  counties: Knox, Laurel, Whitley, Clay and Jackson. (WYMT)  Five Eastern Kentucky counties will soon have a mobile syringe exchange to minimize the spread of infectious diseases and to help get people who are addicted to drugs into treatment,...

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Medical News Today: Hematoma: Everything you need to know

A hematoma occurs when blood leaks from a large blood vessel. In this article, learn about the causes and symptoms of hematomas as well as the different types and when to see a docto...

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Medical News Today: Dark spots on the skin: Causes and how to treat them

Dark spots on the skin are usually the result of hyperpigmentation. They are usually harmless. In this article, we look at the symptoms, causes, and treatments for dark spots on the ski...

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Medical News Today: Can you get pregnant on your period?

A person can get pregnant at any point in their menstrual cycle, but it is much less likely during their period. In this article, we look at the factors affecting whether someone can get pregnant before, during, and after their perio...

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Medical News Today: How can you make your period come faster?

People have tried many methods to induce periods using traditional and modern medicine. In this article, we look at the evidence behind various ways to make a period come faster, risks, and methods that have no scientific backin...

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Medical News Today: What does science say about the effects of meditation?

In this Spotlight feature, we look at the benefits of practicing meditation or mindfulness, and we weigh up some of the potential unwanted effect...

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Medical News Today: Vitamin C can cut time spent in intensive care units

An analysis of published trials calls for research into vitamin C's effects on critically ill patients after finding it can cut time in ICU by 8 percen...

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Medical News Today: Could probiotics evolve in the gut and cause harm?

New research shows how bacteria adapt inside the gastrointestinal tract of mice and suggests that the effectiveness of probiotics might change over tim...

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Medical News Today: What can cause stomach pain when breathing?

Stomach pain when breathing is often due to a problem with the diaphragm or the tissues in the chest cavity. Possible causes include injuries, hiatal hernia, pregnancy, pleurisy, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Learn more her...

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Medical News Today: 15 healthful gluten-free meals to try

Making healthful, filling gluten-free meals is easier than many people think. In this article, we provide 15 gluten-free recipes that people can use to make breakfasts, lunches, and dinner...

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Medical News Today: Using artificial intelligence to predict mortality

Newly published research compares the accuracy of machine learning algorithms in predicting mortality with that of conventional mathematical model...

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Why the wheelchair? Could it be gout?

When Paul Manafort appeared in court for sentencing recently, he was in a wheelchair and pleaded for leniency, in part because “his confinement had taken a toll on his physical and mental health.” He reportedly had symptoms of depression and anxiety — but what was the health problem that put him in a wheelchair? According to multiple news reports, the answer is gout. Yes, that ancient disease you may have thought didn’t exist anymore has stricken...

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Medical News Today: This drug failed to treat cancer, but it could improve dementia

Scientists have found that an experimental drug that failed against cancer may treat dementia instead. However, can they test it in clinical trial...

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Medical News Today: What to know about cupping therapy

Cupping therapy involves placing cups on the body and creating suction. Benefits include pain relief and sports recovery. There are also some potential side effects, such as nausea and headaches. Learn more her...

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Statewide tobacco-free-schools bill finally passes, and is the governor is expected to sign it into law, effective in 2020

By Melissa Patrick Kentucky Health News FRANKFORT, Ky. -- A bill to ban the use of tobacco products in all Kentucky public schools and events finally passed on the last day of the legislative session and is on the way to Gov. Matt Bevin's desk for his signature or veto. Sen. Ralph Alvarado Because it was the last...

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Medical News Today: Hypothyroidism: Foods to eat and avoid

Certain diets can improve hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid, while others can make the symptoms worse. In this article, we look at which foods and nutrients to eat and avoid to improve the symptoms of hypothyroidis...

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Health departments, regional mental-health centers, other entities get a pension fix, but at a cost to some employees' pensions

Teachers filled the Senate gallery. (Herald-Leader photo by Matt Goins) As it closed up shop, the legislature gave local health departments, regional mental-health centers and other government-related agencies another reprieve from pension costs that threaten their future, but at a cost to some employees' pensions. "Under...

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Medical News Today: Normal sperm count: Everything you need to know

A sperm count is part of a larger test called semen analysis. A doctor may test a person’s sperm count if they have fertility concerns. Learn about average, low, and high sperm counts her...

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Medical News Today: Rectal pressure: Causes and when to see a doctor

Rectal pressure is a common symptom of a variety of problems, from constipation to ulcerative colitis. Learn more about the causes and possible treatments her...

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'Fatal Flaws' series on Ky. workplace safety wins national award for Kentucky Center for Investigative Journalism

http://fatalflaws.kycir.org/?utm_source=KyCIR&utm_campaign=13addb68bb-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2019_03_28_02_25&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_3fe1cce7ce-13addb68bb-166990137&mc_cid=13addb68bb&mc_eid=4bc9d6d2c...

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Medical News Today: Why do I wake up hungry?

A person may wake up hungry because they did not eat enough or exercised heavily the day before. There are several other possible reasons. Here, learn more about waking up hungry and how to prevent i...

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Medical News Today: Smoking may not be related to dementia risk after all

Study of 531 cognitively healthy older adults over 11.5 years finds no link between smoking and dementia after accounting for 'competing risk' of deat...

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Medical News Today: Letter from the Editor: Looking to the future

This month, MNT attended the Future Healthcare 2019 Conference and Exhibition. Managing Editor Honor Whiteman discusses some exciting new technologie...

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Medical News Today: Depression: Brain stimulation may be a good alternative treatment

A new review of clinical trials delves deeper into the benefits of various forms of non-invasive brain stimulation for treating severe depressio...

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Medical News Today: Plant compound could fight eye cancer

A toxin present in the coralberry plant can stop the division of cancer cells, a new study has found. The findings may lead to enhanced treatmen...

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Safer Surgery: Steps you can take

Chances are high that most of us will have a surgical procedure at some point during our lives. Estimates based on 2002 data in three states suggest Americans have a lifetime average of nine surgical procedures. In 2010 in the United States, there were an estimated 1.4 million inpatient procedures, ranging from childhood tonsillectomies, breast lumpectomies, and gallbladder removal to cataract surgeries, hernia repairs, and hip or knee replacements....

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Medical News Today: Is this a better way to deliver drugs to the brain?

According to a new study in mice, shorter-wave ultrasound pulses could help scientists deliver drugs straight into the brain more safely and efficientl...

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Medical News Today: Musical training may improve attention

New research finds that people who have had musical training are better at controlling their attention and blocking out distraction...

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Judge again blocks state's Medicaid plan with work requirements for many, says likewise for similar plan already in effect in Ark.

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Medical News Today: What to eat on the Indian diet

The Indian diet consists of eating vegetables, legumes, and rice. It can be healthful when people follow the diet in a balanced way. Learn more about the Indian diet her...

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Man who ran drug-treatment facilities in Ironton and Portsmouth, Ohio, is indicted on drug-trafficking charges

Graffiti under the U.S. Grant Bridge in Portsmouth, Ohio (Cincinnati Enquirer photo by Liz Dufour) The former operator of Ohio drug-treatment facilities just across the river from northeastern Kentucky was indicted Wednesday on 34 felony counts ranging from drug trafficking to Medicaid fraud. Paul Vernier, 56, operated...

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Medical News Today: Everything you need to know about antifreeze poisoning

People who suspect that they or someone else has antifreeze poisoning should seek immediate medical care. Symptoms develop slowly, so it is important to seek help even if no symptoms are present. Early symptoms may be similar to alcohol intoxication. Learn more, including treatment and prevention, her...

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Bevin signs bill setting deadlines for insurers to authorize medications prescribed by health-care providers

Gomerpedia.org Gov. Matt Bevin has signed into law "a bill that’s expected to ease the process for getting some medications and treatments pre-approved by insurers," Darla Carter reports for Insider Louisville. Senate Bill 54 could speed up the authorization process "to five days or less, along with...

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Medical News Today: Why do antidepressants fail for some?

Differences in genes and structures of nerve cell that make and use serotonin could explain why some people with major depression do not respond to SSRI...

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Medical News Today: Knee osteoarthritis: A low-carb diet may relieve symptoms

A new study compares the effects of a low-carb diet with those of a regular diet and a low-fat diet on knee osteoarthritis in older adult...

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A silver lining for migraine sufferers?

Could there be any benefit associated with having migraine headaches? Most migraine patients would agree this is an odd question. Migraine is a common, inherited, lifelong, and often debilitating illness that impacts people most during their productive working and parenting years. It has been associated with a higher risk of vascular disorders such as stroke and heart attack, and psychiatric disorders like depression and anxiety. What could possibly...

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Medical News Today: Can changes in brain energy pathways cause depression?

Scientists repurposed an accessible bioinformatics tool to find DNA mutations, some of which occur at high levels in people with major depressive disorde...

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Medical News Today: What really happens in the brain during a hallucination?

A new study reveals a surprising brain mechanism tied to the experience of drug-induced hallucinations. These findings may even have wider implication...

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Medical News Today: The effects of going more than 24 hours without sleep

It is not clear how long a person can go without sleep, but in a famous 1964 experiment, a person managed to stay awake for 264 hours. Sleep deprivation can negatively affect energy levels, mood, and cognitive functioning. In the long term, it can increase a person's risk of several chronic conditions. Learn more her...

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Medical News Today: Is it safe to take Humira and alcohol together?

Humira is a biologic medication that treats inflammatory conditions. In this article, we look at the safety and risks associated with taking Humira and drinking alcohol. We also discuss other Humira side effects and interaction...

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African American men respond better to treatments for advanced prostate cancer in clinical trials

Racial differences have long been evident in prostate cancer statistics. In particular, African American men are diagnosed with prostate cancer more often than white men, and they’re also nearly twice as likely to die of the disease. But new research also shows that African American men who receive the most advanced treatments for late-stage prostate cancer can live at least as long — or even longer — than their Caucasian counterparts. Why is this...

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Medical News Today: Home remedies for getting rid of hickeys

Hickeys, or love bites, are bruises that can appear when someone sucks on another person's skin. Hickeys tend to disappear on their own after several days, but some home remedies may help get rid of them faster. Learn more her...

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Beshear says he's investigating pharmacy benefit managers for possible overcharging and discrimination against independents

Republican Gov. Matt Bevin and Attorney General Andy Beshear Attorney General Andy Beshear announced March 21 that he is investigating pharmacy benefit managers, the "middlemen" between drug companies and health insurers, including Kentucky's Medicaid program and state-employee health plan. Beshear is investigating...

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Medical News Today: What causes Achilles tendon pain?

Achilles tendon pain can result from tendonitis or a tear or rupture of the tendon. Problems with the Achilles tendon are more common in people who play sports. They typically occur from excessive use of the calf muscles but can also result from acute injuries. Learn more about Achilles tendon pain her...

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Medical News Today: Atherosclerosis: Scans spot inflammation in arteries before they harden

Using advanced imaging to scan people with some atherosclerotic plaques, scientists detected inflammation in arteries that had not yet developed plaque...

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Medical News Today: Time-restricted eating may prevent tumor growth

New research in mice suggests that eating all daily meals within a restricted window of time may be a good preventive strategy against cancer tumor growt...

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Medical News Today: Relieving sciatica pain during pregnancy

During pregnancy, the uterus can put extra pressure on the sciatic nerve, causing sciatica pain in the low back and legs. In this article, we look at how to relieve sciatica using stretches, exercise, massage, and other method...

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Preventing depression in pregnancy: New guidelines

While pregnancy and a child’s birth are often depicted in pastel tones, many women struggle with depression during this time. Up to 14% of women are diagnosed with depression during pregnancy. Far more report having symptoms of depression during pregnancy and the first year after birth. Now new guidelines published by the US Preventive Services Task Force in the Journal of the American Medical Association provide the first-ever recommendations...

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Medical News Today: Keto diet: New study unearths sex differences

A recent study investigates how the keto diet affects male and female mice. The researchers find that in females, the diet's benefits are absen...

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Medical News Today: Why your household dust could fuel the growth of fat cells

Is there a link between the dust in our homes and the accelerated growth of fat cells in our bodies? New research suggests that the answer may be 'yes...

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Medical News Today: Colloidal silver: Does it work and is it safe?

Colloidal silver is a popular home remedy, and people use it to treat or prevent a range of health issues. However, the solution may not be safe to ingest, and it can have serious side effects. Learn more her...

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Medical News Today: What causes a constant urge to pee?

Infections and other bladder issues can affect the way a person urinates. Some conditions can cause a constant urge to pee, even when doing so produces little urine. In this article, we look at causes, treatments, and when to see a docto...

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Medical News Today: When to consume protein: The facts

Consuming protein is necessary for muscle growth and repair. There is no single best time for this, but rather it depends on individual goals. Learn more about when to have protein her...

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Medical News Today: What are the symptoms of ADHD in adults?

The symptoms of ADHD in adults vary depending on the type of ADHD, but they may include disorganization and restlessness. Learn more about adult ADHD symptoms her...

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Medical News Today: What are the health benefits of jackfruit?

Jackfruit is a healthful source of essential nutrients, including vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. Research suggests that substances in the fruit and plant may have a variety of health benefits. Cooked, unripe jackfruit is a popular meat substitute among vegetarians and vegans. Learn more her...

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Medical News Today: What to know about smoking and ulcerative colitis

Smoking has links to major health issues, but nicotine replacement products may help with ulcerative colitis. Some studies suggest that nicotine can ease symptoms in some people. Learn more her...

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Medical News Today: The best ways to get rid of acne scars

Acne scars can form as a result of moderate-to-severe acne. Many home remedies and medical treatments can help smooth the skin and reduce scarring. Learn about how to get rid of acne scars her...

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Medical News Today: What to know about tooth cavities

Tooth cavities can occur when there is a buildup of plaque on the teeth. People can prevent cavities by practicing good oral hygiene. Learn more about tooth cavities, including their possible symptoms, her...

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Medical News Today: Osteoporosis: New tools help pinpoint potential risk genes

Genome analysis and 3D DNA studies helped scientists to identify two new genes that impact bone-producing cells to potentially alter osteoporosis ris...

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Medical News Today: More evidence links weight gain to meal times

A recent study on obesity and weight gain finds that it is not just what we eat but when we eat it that is important. Evidence for this theory is mountin...

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Medical News Today: The key to brain health: Light but frequent exercise

New research shows that light and moderate exercise benefits the brain both immediately and in the long run, providing a person is active frequentl...

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Cleaner living: Plant-friendly is planet-friendly

Climate change is in the news more and more, and the projections from virtually all of the world’s climate scientists are becoming increasingly dire. Almost daily, we are confronted with images of extreme weather patterns, disease outbreaks, and the loss of certain species. It is almost biblical in proportion. Most poignant, to me, are the distressing images of starving, displaced polar bears whose icy habitats are melting away. Many of the things...

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Medical News Today: Why too much vitamin D can be a bad thing

Vitamin D is essential for good health. However, a new study has found that too much can have a negative effect on some members of the populatio...

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Medical News Today: Sugary drinks can be a factor in cardiovascular disease

A recent study finds an association between sugary drinks and higher rates of mortality from cardiovascular disease, as well as higher cancer rate...

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Health departments scramble to fight hepatitis A outbreak

Peyton Manning had hepatitis C but didn't know about hepatitis A or the outbreak until it hit him. (Michael Clevenger, Courier Journal) The nation's largest outbreak of hepatitis A has slack off somewhat in Kentucky, but remains a threat and local health departments are dipping into their reserves and taking unusual...

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Montgomery County reports uptick in cases of syphilis

Health officials in Montgomery County say they're seeing more syphilis cases. "What had become a relatively rare disease is now seeing a resurgence nationwide," the Montgomery County Health Department said on its Facebook page Friday. The agency "said it has seen an increase in syphilis cases in recent months," the Lexington...

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Justice secretary favors treatment over incarceration; 'We have to distinguish who we are mad at and who we are actually afraid of'

By Melissa Patrick Kentucky Health News Nearly 90 Fulbright scholars from 49 countries attended a University of Kentucky seminar, "Combating Addiction," which included sessions on the origins of the opioid epidemic in Central Appalachia, the role of public policy, and the challenges of treatment in both rural and...

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Medical News Today: Cystic fibrosis: Existing drug may improve lung function

According to a recent study, a commonly used antifungal medication could be useful for treating lung infections related to cystic fibrosi...

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Medical News Today: Stroke: Rewiring eye-brain connection may restore vision

Groundbreaking research finds that some vision loss after a stroke may be reversible. The researchers hope that this finding may inform future treatment...

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Here's a list of health-related bills in the General Assembly

Kentucky Health News When the General Assembly returns Thursday, March 28, for the final day of its session, it could pass any number of bills, including several related to health: to make schools tobacco-free, to set up a hotline for students to report "vaping" of electronic cigarettes; to give health departments a reprieve...

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