Health Lab

Preventing Food Poisoning | Michigan Medicine

19 Oct 2018

Contributed by Lukas

About 48 million people fall victim to the unpleasant illness each year. Follow these 6 steps to keep unwanted germs out of your food.For more informa...

Hearing Aid Inequality | Michigan Medicine

18 Oct 2018

Contributed by Lukas

A national study finds major variations in hearing aid use by race, income and education — but VA insurance coverage levels the playing field.To lea...

Eating for Heart Health | Michigan Medicine

17 Oct 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Learn what a Michigan Medicine doctor who specializes in heart care eats for breakfast, lunch and dinner — plus a few tips to apply to your own menu...

Fear of the Doctor in Children

16 Oct 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Children’s reactions during routine checkups can vary widely based on age and temperament. While some little ones remain calm, others are so distres...

Genetic Testing for Breast Cancer | Michigan Medicine

15 Oct 2018

Contributed by Lukas

If you have a family history of breast cancer, you may also be at higher risk of developing the disease. This knowledge can boost surveillance and pre...

Disparities in Life-Threatening Birth Experiences | Michigan Medicine

12 Oct 2018

Contributed by Lukas

A review of data from millions of U.S. births finds higher rates of dangerous delivery-related conditions in new mothers of color and those with ...

Screening for Depression in Young Patients | Michigan Medicine

11 Oct 2018

Contributed by Lukas

New guidelines addressing adolescent mental health as part of primary care offer many benefits, a U-M expert says. For more on this story, visit: http...

Breast Cancer Diagnosis: Be Informed | Michigan Medicine

10 Oct 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Balancing family life and cancer care can be a challenge. A Michigan Medicine counselor offers advice for navigating the process. For more on this sto...

How to Spot Signs of Opioid Addiction | Michigan Medicine

09 Oct 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Doctors use an 11-point checklist to help determine if a person’s opioid use signals a deeper problem. Here’s what they look for.To learn more abo...

Genetic Testing Awareness + Breast Cancer | Michigan Medicine

08 Oct 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Awareness of genetic testing is low, a new study finds. But an interactive website can help newly diagnosed patients make informed decisions about the...

Diabetes Education + Church Outreach | Michigan Medicine

05 Oct 2018

Contributed by Lukas

A program that provides peer-to-peer health counseling applies U-M research in a faith-based setting. See how it’s helping parishioners in need. For...

Children and Headaches | Michigan Medicine

04 Oct 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Knowing how to address and treat a child’s headache can help a patient (and parent) feel better. A new Mott poll examines how families approach the ...

Older Adults + DNA Tests

03 Oct 2018

Contributed by Lukas

More than 1 in 10 have had genetic tests ordered by a doctor or ordered them directly, a new survey finds. For more on this story visit: https://labbl...

Misconceptions About Concussions | Michigan Medicine

02 Oct 2018

Contributed by Lukas

A potential concussion brings questions and sometimes confusion. A Michigan Medicine sports neurologist debunks several myths about the injury.To lear...

Cold in Fall but Warm in Spring? | Michigan Medicine

01 Oct 2018

Contributed by Lukas

When seasons change, our bodies know to react. But we can perceive the same thermometer reading differently at various times throughout the year. For ...

Chiropractic Treatment and Vision Loss | Michigan Medicine

28 Sep 2018

Contributed by Lukas

In rare occurrences, forceful manipulation of the neck is linked to a damaging side effect: vision problems and bleeding inside the eye. For more on t...

Curiosity Linked to Academic Performance | Michigan Medicine

27 Sep 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Promoting curiosity may be a valuable approach to boosting academic performance, particularly for low-income children, analysis finds.For more informa...

School Night Bedtime Tips | Michigan Medicine

26 Sep 2018

Contributed by Lukas

A few more hours of shut-eye can make a big difference for kids, especially during back-to-school season. For more information on this story visit:&nb...

The Powerful Urge To Eat | Michigan Medicine

25 Sep 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Two tiny groups of brain cells, right next to each other, play a key role in driving feeding — and stopping. The brain’s own opioid syst...

New Smartphone App Tracks Pain | Michigan Medicine

21 Sep 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Patient-provided data can help doctors and health care professionals gain a more complete picture on pain. For more on this story visit: https://labbl...

Opioid Prescriptions Rose Despite Limits | Michigan Medicine

20 Sep 2018

Contributed by Lukas

A new drug policy was meant to curb unnecessary opioid prescriptions. Instead, a new study finds, prescriptions after surgery went up. For more on thi...

Medicaid Expansion Boost | Michigan Medicine

19 Sep 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Health care coverage for low-income patients produces fiscal benefits that include lower unpaid debts, fewer bankruptcies and higher credit scores. Re...

Adolescent Sleep | Michigan Medicine

18 Sep 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Healthy sleep is critical during adolescence, but a nationwide survey finds many parents have sleep-deprived teens at home. For more on this story, vi...

Emergency Preparedness | Michigan Medicine

17 Sep 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Disasters happen. Here’s some tips from an ER physician about how to prepare for you and your family: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/wellness-pre...

Older Patients + Sedatives | Michigan Medicine

13 Sep 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Benzodiazepines pose special risks to older adults. New research finds many of those who start taking them aren’t stopping. For more on this story v...

Handling a Picky Eater | Michigan Medicine

12 Sep 2018

Contributed by Lukas

New research shows parental reactions to picky eating can have long-term effects, for better or worse. For more on this story visit: https://heal...

Misconceptions About Concussions | Michigan Medicine

07 Sep 2018

Contributed by Lukas

A potential concussion brings questions and sometimes confusion. A Michigan Medicine sports neurologist debunks several myths about the injury.To lear...

Alcohol-Related Cirrhosis | Michigan Medicine

06 Sep 2018

Contributed by Lukas

A new review of private insurance data finds that alcohol is a major contributor to cirrhosis cases — and that women drinkers are dispropo...

Mom's Voice Soothes Infants in NICU | Michigan Medicine

05 Sep 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Infants in the NICU were more likely to stay asleep during recordings of their mothers reading, finds new research.To learn more about this story visi...

Brighton Center For Specialty Care | Michigan Medicine

04 Sep 2018

Contributed by Lukas

We are excited to announce the grand opening of our latest ambulatory care unit, the Brighton Center for Specialty Care. For more information visit ht...

Affordable Meds and Stroke Survivors | Michigan Medicine

31 Aug 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Younger stroke survivors are having less trouble paying for medications that can stave off a second stroke, thanks to ACA and expanded Medicaid. For m...

Ponytail Headache Syndrome | Michigan Medicine

30 Aug 2018

Contributed by Lukas

There’s a medical explanation for the discomfort some people feel with their hair up. A headache specialist shares who’s at risk and how to cope.F...

Control Acid Reflux Symptoms | Michigan Medicine

29 Aug 2018

Contributed by Lukas

When your acid reflux symptoms are not being controlled by medication, it’s time to see a gastroenterologist to discuss your options, specialists sa...

Treating Severe Asthma

28 Aug 2018

Contributed by Lukas

A Michigan Medicine pulmonologist explains why biologics are becoming a valuable option for some asthma patients. For more information visit: https://...

Polluted Air and Kidney Health | Michigan Medicine

27 Aug 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Of the many well-documented risks of dirty air, one potential danger is lesser known: chronic kidney disease. For more on this story, visit: http...

School Night Bedtime Tips | Michigan Medicine

24 Aug 2018

Contributed by Lukas

A few more hours of shut-eye can make a big difference for kids, especially during back-to-school season. For more information on this story visit: ht...

Prepare Your Child for Kindergarten | Michigan Medicine

23 Aug 2018

Contributed by Lukas

A good start in kindergarten provides a foundation for years of education. How families can prepare for the big day. Read more at: https://healthblog....

Male Breast Cancer | Michigan Medicine

22 Aug 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Everyone knows women face a risk of developing breast cancer. Although far rarer, the disease can surface in men, too. For more on this story visit: h...

Easing Joint Pain | Michigan Medicine

21 Aug 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Weight loss can do more than reduce joint pain in people who are overweight, a new study has found. Other big health improvements can happen, too. For...

What is a "Widowmaker"? | Michigan Medicine

20 Aug 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Caused by total blockage in a critical blood vessel, the severe cardiac event can have deadly consequences. For more on this story visit https://healt...

Treating Acne | Michigan Medicine

17 Aug 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Over-the-counter creams and rinses might not be enough to manage breakouts. Acne, after all, is strongly genetic — and there is no definitive cure. ...

Raising Responsible Tweens | Michigan Medicine

16 Aug 2018

Contributed by Lukas

The arrival of the tween years brings many new challenges for parents. There’s greater independence — but also a heightened risk of trouble. For m...

Identifying A Drinking Problem | Michigan Medicine

15 Aug 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Doctors consider multiple factors when gauging a patient’s alcohol issues and advising treatment. A Michigan Medicine psychologist explains the appr...

U.S. News & World Report | Michigan Medicine

14 Aug 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Michigan Medicine is ranked among the top 5 hospitals in the nation according to US News & World Report. For more on this story visit http://www.u...

Older Organ Donors | Michigan Medicine

13 Aug 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Just one-third of older Americans intend to donate their organs, a new study finds. But many more are eligible — even though they might as...

Wisdom Teeth and Opioids | Michigan Medicine

10 Aug 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Patients in their late teens and 20s had the highest risk of persistent use if they received opioids around the time of their extraction, a new study ...

Binge-Watching and Sleep | Michigan Medicine

09 Aug 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Most of us are guilty of streaming countless episodes of a favorite show in one sitting. But the habit can wreak havoc on sleep, research shows. To le...

Cancer Prevention Clues | Michigan Medicine

08 Aug 2018

Contributed by Lukas

To learn how other cultures’ meals and eating patterns affect cancer risk, a Michigan Medicine researcher is traveling the globe. To learn more visi...

Back To School Anxiety | Michigan Medicine

07 Aug 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Often a happy and busy time of year, returning to school can be stressful for some kids. For more information please visit https://healthblog.uofmheal...

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease | Michigan Medicine

06 Aug 2018

Contributed by Lukas

A highly contagious viral infection, hand, foot and mouth disease can surface on the body parts that make up its name. For more informa...

Eating Disorders | Michigan Medicine

03 Aug 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Eating disorders affect people of all ages and body types. For more information about this story visit https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/health-m...

Innovative Carotid Procedure | Michigan Medicine

02 Aug 2018

Contributed by Lukas

An innovative carotid procedure known as TCAR reverses blood flow to reduce stroke risk during revascularization. It’s now being performed at Michig...

Opioids and Older Adults | Michigan Medicine

01 Aug 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Many Americans over 50 favor limits on painkiller prescribing, and those who receive prescriptions need more counseling about risks and safe disposal ...

C. Diff and Hospital Occupancy | Michigan Medicine

31 Jul 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Patients are three times likelier to contract the dangerous infection when a hospital is at midlevel occupancy, a new way of tracking the data finds. ...

Eyeglasses and Medicare | Michigan Medicine

30 Jul 2018

Contributed by Lukas

The national health insurance program leaves many older Americans without adequate resources to properly maintain their sight, a new study finds. For ...

World Hepatitis Day | Michigan Medicine

27 Jul 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver, can be either acute or chronic. Today, unlike in years past, it’s also largely preventable. For more inform...

The Financial Toll of Breast Cancer | Michigan Medicine

26 Jul 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Patients feel providers do not adequately address concerns about the cost of cancer treatment, which can heighten anxiety during an already stressful ...

What Does The Liver Do? | Michigan Medicine

25 Jul 2018

Contributed by Lukas

The workhorse of the digestive system, the liver performs 500 functions that help keep the body healthy. Learn more about this essential organ. For mo...

Children and Headaches | Michigan Medicine

24 Jul 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Knowing how to address and treat a child’s headache can help a patient (and parent) feel better. A new Mott poll examines how families approach the ...

Liver Disease Myths | Michigan Medicine

23 Jul 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Find out what’s truth and what’s fiction when it comes to the causes of liver disease. For more information about this story visit: https://health...

Cirrhosis Young Adults | Michigan Medicine

20 Jul 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Rapid rise in liver deaths highlights new challenges in treatment and prevention despite gains in fighting hepatitis C, researchers say. For more info...

Weight Loss and Pregnancy | Michigan Medicine

19 Jul 2018

Contributed by Lukas

A new Michigan Medicine clinical trial — now enrolling participants — hopes to determine how weight loss prior to pregnancy affects maternal and f...

Skin Cancer - Catch it Early | Michigan Medicine

18 Jul 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Everyone has them, but not all moles are the same. How to examine yours properly — and when it’s time to see a doctor.To learn more about this sto...

Lawn Mower Safety | Michigan Medicine

17 Jul 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Don’t let sharp blades or flying debris dampen your summer with a trip to the emergency room. Follow these safety guidelines instead.To learn more a...

Signs Your Child's Snoring is a Problem | Michigan Medicine

16 Jul 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Many children may snore at some point in their lives, but in some cases, it is a habitual problem that requires treatment.To learn more about this sto...

Water Safety for Parents and Kids | Michigan Medicine

13 Jul 2018

Contributed by Lukas

In advance of summer swimming season, a Michigan Medicine educator says all parents should refresh their knowledge on water safety and caution.To lear...

Elevated Brain Injury Biomarkers in Football Players | Michigan Medicine

12 Jul 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Even without symptoms of concussion, researchers studying high school football players found two elevated biomarkers that are associated with brain in...

Amusement Park Safety | Michigan Medicine

11 Jul 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Before enjoying thrill rides, carnival games and other fun activities, make sure your family has reviewed this safety checklist.To learn more about th...

Genetics Behind the Domestication of Dogs | Michigan Medicine

10 Jul 2018

Contributed by Lukas

A comparison of dog and wolf DNA reveals interesting genetics behind domestication. The new study is a step toward a deeper understanding of evolution...

Severe Weather | Michigan Medicine

09 Jul 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Summer holidays and beautiful weather are upon us. Use these pointers to keep your family safe all season long.Find out more about this story at https...

Digital Media at Summer Camp | Michigan Medicine

06 Jul 2018

Contributed by Lukas

A new study probes the benefits and drawbacks of digital media use among child and teen campers.To learn more about this story visit https://labblog.u...

Obstructive Sleep Apnea | Michigan Medicine

05 Jul 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Research finds that more than half of Medicare beneficiaries have a high risk of obstructive sleep apnea, but few have been assessed for the sleep dis...

Eating for Heart Health | Michigan Medicine

03 Jul 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Learn what a Michigan Medicine doctor who specializes in heart care eats for breakfast, lunch and dinner — plus a few tips to apply to your own menu...

Hearing Aid Inequality | Michigan Medicine

02 Jul 2018

Contributed by Lukas

A national study finds major variations in hearing aid use by race, income and education — but VA insurance coverage levels the playing field.To lea...

Summer Eye Dangers: Fireworks | Michigan Medicine

29 Jun 2018

Contributed by Lukas

You protect your skin from sunburn and your body from injury, so why not your eyes? Review common summer sight hazards and how to avoid them.To learn ...

Detecting Opioid Addiction | Michigan Medicine

28 Jun 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Doctors use an 11-point checklist to help determine if a person’s opioid use signals a deeper problem. Here’s what they look for.To learn more abo...

Congenital Heart Disease & Safe Pregnancy | Michigan Medicine

27 Jun 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Women with ACHD who are considering having a baby need to be especially vigilant with their health care. An expert explains what to know.To learn m...

Tips for Using Bug Repellents Containing DEET | Michigan Medicine

26 Jun 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Bug repellents can be an effective tool to keep bites at bay. Be sure to follow proper guidelines when using them.To learn more about this story ...

Gut-Directed Hypnosis | Michigan Medicine

25 Jun 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Close your eyes, relax and imagine your intestines free of pain and discomfort. With hypnotherapy treatment from a specialized psychologist, it can be...

Dispelling the 'Dry Drowning' Myth | Michigan Medicine

22 Jun 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Each summer, news of secondary or “dry” drowning hits social media. An emergency department physician explains the nuance of this rumored risk.To ...

Cancer Outcomes & Minority Children | Michigan Medicine

21 Jun 2018

Contributed by Lukas

A new multi-institutional project is studying cancer biology and care to identify why minority children have worse cancer outcomes compared to their w...

Rheumatoid Arthritis & Cognitive Impairment | Michigan Medicine

20 Jun 2018

Contributed by Lukas

A new study from researchers at Michigan Medicine explores links between chronic joint inflammation and cognitive impairment.To learn more about this ...

Prenatal Genetic Testing | Michigan Medicine

19 Jun 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Many parents choose to know if their unborn child might have birth defects. A Michigan Medicine genetic counselor explains the tests that can inform t...

Pregnancy After 30 | Michigan Medicine

18 Jun 2018

Contributed by Lukas

The proverbial biological clock doesn’t seem to tick as fast for some women. A Michigan Medicine obstetrician explains the medical pros and cons of ...

Protect Your Eyes - Summer Safety | Michigan Medicine

15 Jun 2018

Contributed by Lukas

You protect your skin from sunburn and your body from injury, so why not your eyes? Review common summer sight hazards and how to avoid them.To learn ...

Bug Spray & Sunscreen - Summer Safety | Michigan Medicine

14 Jun 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Summer holidays and beautiful weather are upon us. Use these pointers to keep your family safe all season long.To learn more about this story visit: h...

Stay Hydrated - Summer Safety | Michigan Medicine

13 Jun 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Summer holidays and beautiful weather are upon us. Use these pointers to keep your family safe all season long.To learn more about this story visit: h...

Steps to Prevent Cervical Cancer | Michigan Medicine

12 Jun 2018

Contributed by Lukas

The nation’s top cancer organizations have issued a statement urging increased HPV vaccination and screening to reduce cervical cancer. Here’s wha...

Mom's Voice Soothes Infants in NICU | Michigan Medicine

11 Jun 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Infants in the NICU were more likely to stay asleep during recordings of their mothers reading, finds new research.To learn more about this story visi...

What Doctors Wear Does Matter | Michigan Medicine

08 Jun 2018

Contributed by Lukas

More than 4,000 patients have spoken: They prefer physicians in business attire and a white coat, or at least scrubs and a white coat. And the finding...

Adenoid Removal | Michigan Medicine

07 Jun 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Families occasionally struggle to decide whether to have their child’s adenoids removed. A Michigan Medicine pediatric otolaryngologist explains the...

Skin Cancer Doesn't Discriminate | Michigan Medicine

06 Jun 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Darker skin isn’t a reliable shield from potentially deadly skin cancer. Learn why everyone should protect themselves and get regular skin cancer sc...

Misconceptions About Concussions | Michigan Medicine

05 Jun 2018

Contributed by Lukas

A potential concussion brings questions and sometimes confusion. A Michigan Medicine sports neurologist debunks several myths about the injury.To lear...

Sunscreen | Michigan Medicine

04 Jun 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Sunscreen is a key preventive tool — but only when used properly. A Michigan Medicine dermatologist offers tips for optimal coverage.To learn more a...

Preventing Teen Suicide | Michigan Medicine

01 Jun 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Teens often plan their suicide for less than five minutes, an impulse that can be fatal with a gun. An injury prevention researcher explains how to he...

Is Pelvic Mesh Safe | Michigan Medicine

31 May 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Synthetic material used to help treat a common condition has been linked to problems and lawsuits. A Michigan Medicine board-certified urogynecologist...

Choosing the Right Birth Control | Michigan Medicine

30 May 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Learn about the various types of contraception, the effectiveness of each one and which options could pose a risk for some patients seeking to prevent...

At-Home Genetic Testing | Michigan Medicine

29 May 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Direct-to-consumer genetic testing isn’t harmful, but it has limitations. A Michigan Medicine genetic counselor explains both sides.To learn more ab...

Ticks | Michigan Medicine

25 May 2018

Contributed by Lukas

With the return of warm weather comes the risk of tick bites. Check out these tips for thwarting the bloodsuckers — and what to do if you’ve been ...

Sex after 65 | Michigan Medicine

24 May 2018

Contributed by Lukas

Most older Americans are satisfied with their sex lives, but frequency varies by age, health and other factors. And not many consult their doctors abo...