health News

On March 28, 2026, a cataract surgery marathon in Tsakane, South Africa, restored sight to 133 patients, including 84-year-old Gladys Khoza. Many patients had been on waiting lists for years, with some waiting since 2019 for this 15-20 minute procedure.

Avera Creighton Hospital in Nebraska is at risk due to inadequate funding from a $50 billion rural health initiative established by the Trump administration. Despite claims that the fund would revitalize rural healthcare, experts warn it will not prevent the expected $137 billion loss rural hospitals face over the next decade.

New research published in the European Heart Journal indicates that exercise intensity is crucial for reducing the risk of major diseases, including type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The study found that just over 4% of daily activity being vigorous can lead to significant health benefits.

Walking is the most popular leisure activity in the U.S., with 44% of adults reporting it as their primary form of exercise, according to a 2019 survey of 396,261 adults. However, only 25% of walkers meet the combined guidelines for aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities.

The American Heart Association (AHA) released updated dietary guidelines on March 31, 2026, emphasizing nine key steps to lower heart disease risk. These guidelines focus on flexible and culturally sensitive eating patterns applicable in various settings.

Social media influencers are promoting 'parasite cleanses' as a way to detoxify the body, claiming they can eliminate hidden infections. Medical experts, including Dr.

Jamie Harris was diagnosed with Crohn's disease at the age of 24 after experiencing severe digestive symptoms, including blood in her stool and intense stomach pain. Initially dismissed by her general practitioner as diet-related, her condition worsened until she sought emergency care, leading to a referral to a gastroenterologist.

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 8-1 against Colorado's ban on licensed mental health providers practicing gender and sexuality conversion therapy, stating it restricts free speech.

On March 30, 2026, Royalty Pharma announced a $500 million research and development agreement with Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ) to advance an experimental antibody treatment for autoimmune diseases, specifically targeting IL-23 and TNF pathways. The collaboration is set to continue through 2026 and 2027, focusing on the development of the therapy JNJ-4804.

A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that drinking 2 to 3 cups of coffee daily may reduce the risk of stress, anxiety, and depression. The research analyzed data from 461,586 individuals over an average of 13.4 years, revealing a J-shaped association where moderate intake was beneficial, while consuming 5 or more cups increased the risk of mood disorders.