Tanya Dutt

Neuroplasticity: How Everyday Experiences Influence Brain Function- 6 Exercises To Boost Cognitive Capacity

As I recently stood in a bustling gallery, surrounded by bold colors, vibrant textures, and intriguing sculptures, I was struck by the realization of how much our environment shapes us. Each new sight, sound, and smell felt like a workout for my mind, sparking curiosity and wonder. Little did I know, this exposure to novelty was not only stimulating my imagination but also contributing to my brain’s adaptability, or <span>neuroplasticity</span>. Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to reshape itself, adapt to changes, and improve mental resilience—a trait that becomes increasingly valuable as we age.

A fascinating 2023 study has shed light on how even simple environmental enrichments can enhance <span>brain health</span>. In this study, researchers found that when older adults were exposed to a pleasant fragrance in their bedrooms for two hours each night over six months, their memory capacity increased significantly. This kind of sensory stimulation—triggered by something as subtle as a scent—can improve our brain’s ability to form new connections, enhancing memory and other cognitive skills.

Neuroplasticity, or brain plasticity, is essentially the brain’s remarkable ability to evolve in response to experiences. It allows for learning new skills, adapting to different circumstances, and even recovering from injuries. While scientists are still studying the exact mechanisms of neuroplasticity, it’s understood that each new experience can lead to changes in the brain's neural pathways. This adaptability holds promise for not only enhancing cognitive function but also for delaying the onset of age-related mental decline.

Breaking down the term “neuroplasticity” helps clarify its meaning: “neuro” refers to the nervous system, while “plasticity” points to changeability. Together, they describe the nervous system’s capability to rewire itself. Similar to how lifting weights builds muscle, engaging in challenging mental tasks builds cognitive “muscle.” Each time we tackle something unfamiliar, the brain creates new connections, reinforcing them with repetition.

One of the key ways to encourage neuroplasticity is through environmental enrichment, which includes engaging with diverse sensory experiences. For instance, spending time in nature, surrounding yourself with art, or exploring new places can stimulate your brain. By exposing your mind to fresh and engaging surroundings, you’re essentially training it to stay adaptable, making it more resilient in the face of cognitive decline.

<h2>Practical Tips to Build Your Own Neuroplasticity</h2>

- Seek out new experiences, whether it's trying a new hobby, visiting a different part of town, or simply changing up your daily routine. The brain thrives on novelty.

- Incorporate sensory elements like scents, music, or textured objects into your environment. These can be powerful tools in triggering neural growth.

- Physical exercise, especially aerobic activities, not only boosts physical health but also supports brain health by promoting neural connectivity.

- Learning a new language, playing a musical instrument, or solving puzzles keeps the brain active and reinforces neural pathways.

- Regular social interactions stimulate mental processes, fostering emotional and cognitive health.

- Practicing mindfulness or meditation can improve focus, emotional regulation, and help reshape neural pathways, reducing stress and enhancing mental clarity.

With a few intentional changes, we can use the concept of neuroplasticity to our advantage, keeping our brains engaged and resilient well into old age. Through new experiences, sensory engagement, and physical exercise, we can stimulate neuroplasticity, turning everyday activities into powerful brain-boosting exercises.

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As I recently stood in a bustling gallery, surrounded by bold colors, vibrant textures, and intriguing sculptures, I was struck by the realization of how much our environment shapes us. Each new sight, sound, and smell felt like a workout for my mind, sparking curiosity and wonder. Little did I know, this exposure to novelty was not only stimulating my imagination but also contributing to my brain’s adaptability, or neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to reshape itself, adapt to changes, and improve mental resilience—a trait that becomes increasingly valuable as we age.A fascinating 2023 study has shed light on how even simple environmental enrichments can enhance brain health. In this study, researchers found that when older adults were exposed to a pleasant fragrance in their bedrooms for two hours each night over six months, their memory capacity increased significantly. This kind of sensory stimulation—triggered by something as subtle as a scent—can improve our brain’s ability to form new connections, enhancing memory and other cognitive skills.What is Neuroplasticity?Neuroplasticity, or brain plasticity, is essentially the brain’s remarkable ability to evolve in response to experiences. It allows for learning new skills, adapting to different circumstances, and even recovering from injuries. While scientists are still studying the exact mechanisms of neuroplasticity, it’s understood that each new experience can lead to changes in the brain's neural pathways. This adaptability holds promise for not only enhancing cognitive function but also for delaying the onset of age-related mental decline.How Neuroplasticity Works?Breaking down the term “neuroplasticity” helps clarify its meaning: “neuro” refers to the nervous system, while “plasticity” points to changeability. Together, they describe the nervous system’s capability to rewire itself. Similar to how lifting weights builds muscle, engaging in challenging mental tasks builds cognitive “muscle.” Each time we tackle something unfamiliar, the brain creates new connections, reinforcing them with repetition.One of the key ways to encourage neuroplasticity is through environmental enrichment, which includes engaging with diverse sensory experiences. For instance, spending time in nature, surrounding yourself with art, or exploring new places can stimulate your brain. By exposing your mind to fresh and engaging surroundings, you’re essentially training it to stay adaptable, making it more resilient in the face of cognitive decline.Practical Tips to Build Your Own Neuroplasticity- Seek out new experiences, whether it's trying a new hobby, visiting a different part of town, or simply changing up your daily routine. The brain thrives on novelty.- Incorporate sensory elements like scents, music, or textured objects into your environment. These can be powerful tools in triggering neural growth.- Physical exercise, especially aerobic activities, not only boosts physical health but also supports brain health by promoting neural connectivity.- Learning a new language, playing a musical instrument, or solving puzzles keeps the brain active and reinforces neural pathways.- Regular social interactions stimulate mental processes, fostering emotional and cognitive health.- Practicing mindfulness or meditation can improve focus, emotional regulation, and help reshape neural pathways, reducing stress and enhancing mental clarity.With a few intentional changes, we can use the concept of neuroplasticity to our advantage, keeping our brains engaged and resilient well into old age. Through new experiences, sensory engagement, and physical exercise, we can stimulate neuroplasticity, turning everyday activities into powerful brain-boosting exercises.

neuroplasticity: how everyday experiences influence brain function- 6 exercises to boost cognitive capacity

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As per the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, June is the <span>cataract awareness month</span>. This has been designated as a month to spread awareness around cataract and educate the public about it. This is also the leading cause of <span>vision loss</span> worldwide. This month-long observance also highlights the importance of early detection and treatment of cataracts, and emphasizes that prompt intervention can significantly preserve vision. 

<h4>Why Is It Declared As The <span rel="noindex">Cataract Month</span>?</h4>

As per the International Agency for the Prevention of <span>Blindness</span> (IAPB), this has been done to provide patients and professionals with free educational resources on cataract, which is the clouding of eye's lens. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cataract is the leading cause of blindness worldwide and the leading cause of vision loss in the United States. An estimated 20.5 million Americans aged 40 year and older have cataract in one or both eyes. 

It is the clouding of eye's natural lens, which sits just behind the iris. In a healthy eye, this lens focuses light onto the retina, allowing us to see clearly. Over time, due to aging or other factors, this lens may become cloudy, leading to blurred or dimmed vision. 

As per the World Health Organization (WHO), cataracts account for nearly 51% of world blindness and affects over 65 million people. 

<h4>History Of Cataract Awareness Month </h4>

Prevent Blindness declared the month of June as Cataract Awareness Month and it has been joined by other organizations, including the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), and UNC Ophthalmology. This month spotlights an ocular disease. 

The earliest documented case of cataract was reported to be in a museum in Cairo that houses a small statue from the 5th dynasty. The wooden statue is of a priest reader who has a white patch carved into the pupil of the left eye. It is thought to represent a cataract. 

The earliest procedure of cataract removal is couching. Several illustrations too have been found inside Egyptian temples and tombs depict surgical instruments that indicate the use of couching, a procedure that involved dislodging the eye lens to clear the cataract. 

<h4>How Does Cataract Affect Vision?</h4>

<ul><li>Blurred or foggy vision</li><li>Increased sensitivity to light or glare</li><li>Difficulty seeing at night</li><li>Colors appear faded or yellow</li><li>Frequent changes in glasses prescription</li><li>Seeing halos around lights</li></ul>

Cataract are caused by various factors, some of which include diabetes, prolonged exposure to UV rays, smoking and alcohol consumption, long-term use of corticosteroids, and eye injuries. 

The best way to prevent them is to wear UV-protective sunglasses, manage systemic conditions like diabetes and also go for regular eye exams, especially after the age of 40. It is also important to focus on your diet and other lifestyle habits, and consume more green leafy vegetables, and fruits.

june cataract month

eye health

health and wellness

cataract awareness month

cataract month

vision loss

blindness

As per the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, June is the cataract awareness month. This has been designated as a month to spread awareness around cataract and educate the public about it. This is also the leading cause of vision loss worldwide. This month-long observance also highlights the importance of early detection and treatment of cataracts, and emphasizes that prompt intervention can significantly preserve vision. Why Is It Declared As The Cataract Month?As per the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), this has been done to provide patients and professionals with free educational resources on cataract, which is the clouding of eye's lens. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cataract is the leading cause of blindness worldwide and the leading cause of vision loss in the United States. An estimated 20.5 million Americans aged 40 year and older have cataract in one or both eyes. What Is Cataract?It is the clouding of eye's natural lens, which sits just behind the iris. In a healthy eye, this lens focuses light onto the retina, allowing us to see clearly. Over time, due to aging or other factors, this lens may become cloudy, leading to blurred or dimmed vision. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), cataracts account for nearly 51% of world blindness and affects over 65 million people. History Of Cataract Awareness Month Prevent Blindness declared the month of June as Cataract Awareness Month and it has been joined by other organizations, including the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), and UNC Ophthalmology. This month spotlights an ocular disease. The earliest documented case of cataract was reported to be in a museum in Cairo that houses a small statue from the 5th dynasty. The wooden statue is of a priest reader who has a white patch carved into the pupil of the left eye. It is thought to represent a cataract. The earliest procedure of cataract removal is couching. Several illustrations too have been found inside Egyptian temples and tombs depict surgical instruments that indicate the use of couching, a procedure that involved dislodging the eye lens to clear the cataract. How Does Cataract Affect Vision?The following symptoms are:Blurred or foggy visionIncreased sensitivity to light or glareDifficulty seeing at nightColors appear faded or yellowFrequent changes in glasses prescriptionSeeing halos around lightsWhat Causes Cataract?Cataract are caused by various factors, some of which include diabetes, prolonged exposure to UV rays, smoking and alcohol consumption, long-term use of corticosteroids, and eye injuries. The best way to prevent them is to wear UV-protective sunglasses, manage systemic conditions like diabetes and also go for regular eye exams, especially after the age of 40. It is also important to focus on your diet and other lifestyle habits, and consume more green leafy vegetables, and fruits.

cataract awareness month: importance, significance, and history

Aarushi Bhadury

Is Regrowing Human Limbs A Possibility Now?

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Nature is filled with amazing flora and fauna, all with different sets of abilities and unique features. While considered impossible for humans, there are many animals that can <span>regenerate</span> part of their bodies. Sea creatures like starfish and octopuses can regenerate their limbs in case they get hurt or have to decapitate themselves to escape from a difficult situation. Living in the wild, these creatures evolved to adapt to the harsh nature of their surroundings. 

This is not the case for humans. Many people have to live without their limbs or organs, whether it is due to being born that way or being hurt/experiencing an accident. However, taking inspiration from one such animal, researchers are looking into human limb regeneration. 

Axolotls, with their unique smiles and frilly gills, have become very popular. But these friendly salamanders are more than just cute faces. Scientists are studying them because they might help us solve a big medical mystery: Can people someday grow back lost body parts, like an arm or a leg? 

<h2>Why Did Researchers Pick Axolotls? </h2>

In a groundbreaking <span>study</span> published on June 10 in Nature Communications, Monaghan's team utilized genetically engineered axolotls that glow in the dark to better understand this astonishing process. What makes axolotls so special? They have an incredible ability to regrow any part of their body, no matter how old they are. If they lose a leg, they can grow it right back. 

Even if their heart, lungs, or brain gets hurt, they can fix themselves! This amazing ability makes them champions among animals for their extreme healing powers. One of the long-standing questions in limb regrowth has been how cells "know" precisely which part of the limb to rebuild. For instance, if an axolotl loses its upper arm, it regenerates the entire arm. However, if the injury occurs further down the limb, only the lower arm and hand regrow. 

The key to this mystery appears to be a small molecule called retinoic acid, a compound related to vitamin A and commonly found in skincare products under the name retinol. This molecule acts like a GPS, providing cells with crucial positional information, guiding them on where they are on the body and what specific part needs to be rebuilt. 

<h2>How Retinoic Acid Directs Regrowth </h2>

The study's findings were compelling. When axolotls were given a drug that prevented the breakdown of retinoic acid, their limbs regenerated incorrectly, with an upper arm forming where a lower arm should have been. In contrast, axolotls not given the drug regrew their limbs normally. This strongly suggests that retinoic acid precisely instructs cells about their location and what structure to grow. 

While we are still a long way from growing human limbs, this study is a big step in that direction. The scientists believe this research could eventually help people. We all have the same basic genetic instructions for building limbs that we used when we were developing as babies. The challenge now is to figure out how to turn those same instructions back on later in life, which axolotls can do but humans can't yet. This is one of the oldest and most exciting questions in biology. Thanks to the growing interest in axolotls, especially among kids, these unique animals are helping to advance amazing scientific discoveries. It's quite surprising how popular axolotls have become, showing up everywhere from airports to toy stores. 

Regrowing Human Limbs

regenerate

regenerating human limbs

regeneration and nature

can human limbs regenerate

Study

Nature is filled with amazing flora and fauna, all with different sets of abilities and unique features. While considered impossible for humans, there are many animals that can regenerate part of their bodies. Sea creatures like starfish and octopuses can regenerate their limbs in case they get hurt or have to decapitate themselves to escape from a difficult situation. Living in the wild, these creatures evolved to adapt to the harsh nature of their surroundings. This is not the case for humans. Many people have to live without their limbs or organs, whether it is due to being born that way or being hurt/experiencing an accident. However, taking inspiration from one such animal, researchers are looking into human limb regeneration. Axolotls, with their unique smiles and frilly gills, have become very popular. But these friendly salamanders are more than just cute faces. Scientists are studying them because they might help us solve a big medical mystery: Can people someday grow back lost body parts, like an arm or a leg? Why Did Researchers Pick Axolotls? In a groundbreaking study published on June 10 in Nature Communications, Monaghan's team utilized genetically engineered axolotls that glow in the dark to better understand this astonishing process. What makes axolotls so special? They have an incredible ability to regrow any part of their body, no matter how old they are. If they lose a leg, they can grow it right back. Even if their heart, lungs, or brain gets hurt, they can fix themselves! This amazing ability makes them champions among animals for their extreme healing powers. One of the long-standing questions in limb regrowth has been how cells "know" precisely which part of the limb to rebuild. For instance, if an axolotl loses its upper arm, it regenerates the entire arm. However, if the injury occurs further down the limb, only the lower arm and hand regrow. Body's Internal GPS The key to this mystery appears to be a small molecule called retinoic acid, a compound related to vitamin A and commonly found in skincare products under the name retinol. This molecule acts like a GPS, providing cells with crucial positional information, guiding them on where they are on the body and what specific part needs to be rebuilt. How Retinoic Acid Directs Regrowth The study's findings were compelling. When axolotls were given a drug that prevented the breakdown of retinoic acid, their limbs regenerated incorrectly, with an upper arm forming where a lower arm should have been. In contrast, axolotls not given the drug regrew their limbs normally. This strongly suggests that retinoic acid precisely instructs cells about their location and what structure to grow. Hope for Human Healing While we are still a long way from growing human limbs, this study is a big step in that direction. The scientists believe this research could eventually help people. We all have the same basic genetic instructions for building limbs that we used when we were developing as babies. The challenge now is to figure out how to turn those same instructions back on later in life, which axolotls can do but humans can't yet. This is one of the oldest and most exciting questions in biology. Thanks to the growing interest in axolotls, especially among kids, these unique animals are helping to advance amazing scientific discoveries. It's quite surprising how popular axolotls have become, showing up everywhere from airports to toy stores. 

is regrowing human limbs a possibility now? sea salamanders study could be the medical future

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A red alert was issued for Wednesday, June 11, as extreme heatwaves hover over Delhi-NCR and states nearby. On Wednesday, the capital city's temperature shot up to 45.5 degrees, and marked the fifth consecutive time this month that the temperature crossed the 40-degree mark. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for the national capital. 

As per the IMD's daily weather bulletin issued at 2 pm on Wednesday, "Heatwave conditions are likely to prevail at many places across Delhi-NCR."

<strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/nutrition/beat-the-heat-with-ors-how-to-know-which-one-is-real-article-151700706" data-type="tilCustomLink">Beat The Heat With ORS: How To Know Which One Is Real?</a></strong>

Dr Naresh Kumar, a senior scientist at IMD also told PTI that severe <span>heat wave</span> is expected across northwest India, including Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan. This is expected to persist until June 12. However, from June 13 onwards, one can expect wester disturbance to bring partial relief from the light rain and thunderstorms. This situation will replace the red alert with an orange alert. Dr Kumar also noted that Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Jammu &amp; Kashmir will also remain under red alert for the next three days. 

The IMD data has predicted a slight dip in temperature after June 14. However, as of now, the IMD officials indicated that the temperature "feels like" 51.9. On Monday, the IMD noted that the temperature 'felt like' 49 degrees.

The heatwave not just shoots up the temperature, but also brings health issues, one can feel nauseated, dizziness, or even experience severe <span>dehydration</span>. However, there are some steps one could take to prevent this from happening.

<strong>READ MORE:<a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/heatwave-in-india-know-how-it-affects-different-parts-of-your-body-article-151403887" data-type="tilCustomLink"> Heatwave In India: Know How It Affects Different Parts Of Your Body</a></strong> 

The combination of heat and low humidity causes tears to evaporate faster, leading to dry eye syndrome. Symptoms include redness, itching, burning sensations, and a gritty feeling, as though something is stuck in the eye. Blurred vision and eye fatigue may also occur.

More seriously, intense UV radiation from the sun can cause photokeratitis, or sunburn of the eye. This condition damages the cornea, resulting in pain, light sensitivity, and temporary vision loss. Over time, long-term UV exposure increases the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration, both of which can cause permanent vision problems.

Ironically, trying to escape the heat can also backfire. Spending too much time in air-conditioned environments dries out the air, which further reduces moisture in the eyes, intensifying the symptoms of dry eyes.

<h4>How It Impacts Rest Of Your Body</h4>

The body maintains a stable core temperature—around 37°C—through internal mechanisms controlled by the hypothalamus. Under normal conditions, sweating helps the body release heat, but in hot and humid weather, sweat doesn’t evaporate efficiently, reducing the cooling effect.

A 1985 NASA report noted that the body can only tolerate external temperatures above 35°C if humidity is low. When it fails to cool itself properly, the body begins to store excess heat—a condition known as hyperthermia.

This begins with heat exhaustion, marked by dizziness, weakness, thirst, and nausea. A 2023 study by the University of Roehampton in the UK found that at 40°C and 25% humidity, metabolic rates jumped by 35%—even though the core body temperature remained stable, the body was clearly under stress.

If untreated, heat exhaustion can progress to heatstroke, a potentially fatal condition where the body temperature exceeds 40°C. It puts enormous strain on the heart, kidneys, and brain, and requires immediate medical attention.

<strong>CHECK THIS OUT: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/nutrition/foods-you-should-avoid-during-heat-wave-article-151389568" data-type="tilCustomLink">Foods You Should Avoid During Heat Wave</a></strong>

<h4>What To Do To Prevent This From Happening?</h4>

<ul><li>Wear UV-Protective Sunglasses</li><li>Stay hydrated</li><li>Use lubricating eye drops</li><li>Avoid direct sunlight </li><li>Limit air conditioner exposure immediately after you enter from outside</li><li>Avoid highly spiced or processed foods</li><li>Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages</li></ul>

Delhi red alert

heat wave

seasonal health

health news

how to be safe in heat wave

heat wave safety warning

heat wave health impact

dehydration

A red alert was issued for Wednesday, June 11, as extreme heatwaves hover over Delhi-NCR and states nearby. On Wednesday, the capital city's temperature shot up to 45.5 degrees, and marked the fifth consecutive time this month that the temperature crossed the 40-degree mark. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for the national capital. As per the IMD's daily weather bulletin issued at 2 pm on Wednesday, "Heatwave conditions are likely to prevail at many places across Delhi-NCR."ALSO READ: Beat The Heat With ORS: How To Know Which One Is Real?Dr Naresh Kumar, a senior scientist at IMD also told PTI that severe heat wave is expected across northwest India, including Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan. This is expected to persist until June 12. However, from June 13 onwards, one can expect wester disturbance to bring partial relief from the light rain and thunderstorms. This situation will replace the red alert with an orange alert. Dr Kumar also noted that Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir will also remain under red alert for the next three days. The IMD data has predicted a slight dip in temperature after June 14. However, as of now, the IMD officials indicated that the temperature "feels like" 51.9. On Monday, the IMD noted that the temperature 'felt like' 49 degrees.The heatwave not just shoots up the temperature, but also brings health issues, one can feel nauseated, dizziness, or even experience severe dehydration. However, there are some steps one could take to prevent this from happening.READ MORE: Heatwave In India: Know How It Affects Different Parts Of Your Body Heatwaves Impact On EyesThe combination of heat and low humidity causes tears to evaporate faster, leading to dry eye syndrome. Symptoms include redness, itching, burning sensations, and a gritty feeling, as though something is stuck in the eye. Blurred vision and eye fatigue may also occur.More seriously, intense UV radiation from the sun can cause photokeratitis, or sunburn of the eye. This condition damages the cornea, resulting in pain, light sensitivity, and temporary vision loss. Over time, long-term UV exposure increases the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration, both of which can cause permanent vision problems.Ironically, trying to escape the heat can also backfire. Spending too much time in air-conditioned environments dries out the air, which further reduces moisture in the eyes, intensifying the symptoms of dry eyes.How It Impacts Rest Of Your BodyThe body maintains a stable core temperature—around 37°C—through internal mechanisms controlled by the hypothalamus. Under normal conditions, sweating helps the body release heat, but in hot and humid weather, sweat doesn’t evaporate efficiently, reducing the cooling effect.A 1985 NASA report noted that the body can only tolerate external temperatures above 35°C if humidity is low. When it fails to cool itself properly, the body begins to store excess heat—a condition known as hyperthermia.This begins with heat exhaustion, marked by dizziness, weakness, thirst, and nausea. A 2023 study by the University of Roehampton in the UK found that at 40°C and 25% humidity, metabolic rates jumped by 35%—even though the core body temperature remained stable, the body was clearly under stress.If untreated, heat exhaustion can progress to heatstroke, a potentially fatal condition where the body temperature exceeds 40°C. It puts enormous strain on the heart, kidneys, and brain, and requires immediate medical attention.CHECK THIS OUT: Foods You Should Avoid During Heat WaveWhat To Do To Prevent This From Happening?Wear UV-Protective SunglassesStay hydratedUse lubricating eye dropsAvoid direct sunlight Limit air conditioner exposure immediately after you enter from outsideAvoid highly spiced or processed foodsAvoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages

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Neuroplasticity: How Everyday Experiences Influence Brain Function- 6 Exercises To Boost Cognitive Capacity

Quick Stories

At-Home HPV Testing Improves Cancer Screenings: Study

Cataract Awareness Month: Importance, Significance, and History

Is Regrowing Human Limbs A Possibility Now? Sea Salamanders Study Could Be The Medical Future

Health Conditions A-Z

At-Home HPV Testing Improves Cancer Screenings: Study

Cataract Awareness Month: Importance, Significance, and History

Is Regrowing Human Limbs A Possibility Now? Sea Salamanders Study Could Be The Medical Future