A large-scale study found that participating in church-related activities increased fruit and vegetable consumption among black church members. The study involved 50 black churches and over 2,500 participants, with the most significant increases seen among frequent churchgoers.
Cancer patients who participate in regular physical exercise programs show significant improvements in physical and mental health, including enhanced stamina, muscle strength, and pain management. The studies found that exercise has a positive effect on quality of life, including functional, psychological, and emotional well-being.
A majority of Americans believe certain types of mental illnesses cause violent behavior, with over 90% linking stress as a cause. This stereotype persists despite recognition of mental illness and its causes, leading to social distance and reluctance to interact.
A team of researchers has identified a single gene that causes familial advanced sleep phase syndrome (FASPS), a rare sleep disorder. The study found that the disorder follows a simple Mendelian inheritance pattern, making it easier to find the responsible gene and potentially leading to new treatments for circadian rhythm disorders.
The new center will conduct studies and educational activities to understand the underlying mechanisms of inflammatory diseases and their relationship to oral inflammation and systemic conditions. The research aims to improve diagnosis and treatment of patients by identifying similarities between inflammatory conditions.
A recent study found that older adults with strong social connections have lower blood pressure and are less likely to develop heart disease. In contrast, those with low social support experience higher resting blood pressures, even at a younger age.
Research published in Molecular Psychiatry found St. John's Wort to have a better antidepressant effect than placebo and comparable effects to standard antidepressants. The herb's favorable side effect profile may contribute to its advantages over other medications.
A new national survey reveals evidence of stigma toward mentally ill individuals, viewing them as less competent and more violent. The study found that people with schizophrenia are viewed as more unable to manage daily affairs than those with depression.
Researchers developed a technique to visualize nerve fiber bundles in the living human brain, providing detailed maps of connections between different areas. This study may lead to improvements in brain surgery, diagnosis, and understanding of neurological diseases, such as schizophrenia.
Researchers used DNA fingerprinting to identify 16 wine-grape varieties, including Chardonnay, as the offspring of Pinot and Gouais blanc. This discovery provides valuable information for grape breeders, allowing them to preserve old varieties and develop new ones.
Smokers who switch to lower tar or nicotine cigarettes for 'health reasons' are more likely to quit smoking compared to those who continue to smoke regular cigarette brands. Researchers found that 'switchers' were less dependent on nicotine and had a higher intake of fruits and vegetables.
Patients with fibromyalgia syndrome experience significant improvements in physical condition, symptom reports, and mental state when using non-drug treatments like exercise and cognitive behavioral therapy. Non-drug techniques were found to be superior to medication alone in reducing symptoms and improving daily functioning.
Researchers found that brain trauma causes microscopic damage in the brain, leading to the formation of Alzheimer's-like plaques. The study supports previous evidence linking brain trauma to increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease later in life.