Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects an estimated one in 10 women. Researchers recently found that weight loss interventions may help those with PCOS reduce weight and improve blood sugar regulation and hormonal markers. This work may be the first to uncover a link between weight loss interventions and a clinically significant increase in menstrual frequency. The study’s authors suggest that clinicians can consult these findings to advise patients with PCOS regarding weight loss...

Heart failure is a major health issue associated with mortality and high healthcare costs. Overall heart failure prevalence is growing around the world, currently affecting 1% to 3% of the population. European researchers have found that adhering to the Mediterranean diet may help lower heart failure risk, especially for women. Women may have distinct risks for heart failure that following a Mediterranean diet could help lower. Heart failure, also known as systolic congestive heart failure,...

Smoking is the leading cause of preventable diseases and deaths worldwide. Quitting smoking renders health benefits regardless of age, how much, or how long a person has smoked. A new major review highlights three top-performing smoking cessation strategies. Researchers found that these strategies may be more effective in combination with behavioral therapies. Behavioral therapies and financial incentives also show strong potential for successful smoking cessation without added...

Experts have yet to understand why multiple sclerosis (MS) develops, but current research suggests that genetic and environmental factors may influence its onset. Italian researchers used datasets from the UK Biobank, one of the largest available databases, to conduct a study exploring how diet and other lifestyle factors may affect MS development. The study’s authors say that ‘evidence encourages the study of diet as a modifiable risk factor for the neurological disease.’ Multiple sclerosis...