American Council on Science and Health

Reduce Youth Smoking By Treating It Like Other Addictions

Substance-abuse counselors helping teens and young adults combat addiction are not prioritizing smoking cessation, according to a new study. This should be improved, given the tragic consequences of smoking in the long-term.

Dr. Jekyll, Mr. Hyde, and Omega-3s

Omega 3 fatty acids (from fish oil) have been touted as a panacea for pretty much every malady on the planet. With very rare exceptions, once studied properly, they end up being useless. It just failed in a trial that examined whether it could treat depression. With commentary from ACSH advisor, Dr. David Seres.

New Screening Rules for Type-2 Diabetes Patients

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recently updated its recommendations for screening for abnormal blood glucose, to include 40-to-70 year olds who are overweight or obese. But the main message is that while screenings are helpful, making better health decisions is the best overall approach.

Americans Are Eating Healthier, But Not Healthy Enough

A new study published in the journal of Health Affairs, revealed that Americans are eating healthier now than they were a few decades ago. Researchers estimate that these changes in diet may have prevented more than one million premature deaths, as well as reduced the prevalence of cancer and heart diseases.

Deadly Superbug on the Rise in Children

CRE, a particularly potent superbug, is an emerging as a potent health threat across America. One out of two patients who develop sepsis caused by CRE will eventually die. Now, new data shows that this deadly intruder is afflicting children at an alarming rate.

Soy Linked To Less Osteoporosis

A preliminary study tested the effectiveness of a soy-based supplement. It found that that isoflavones, a type of phytoestrogen found in soy and other legumes, may protect menopausal women against osteoporosis.

Cigarette Smoking Declines, and Harm Reduction Helps

A recent CDC survey of adult behaviors found that more recent quitters, and those who have tried to quit, are using e-cigarettes.

Expect 2 Landmark Studies to Alter Blood Pressure Care

Two new landmark studies are now altering the debate of how to treat hypertension, and they'll necessitate that current guidelines be adjusted. Significant improvements in outcomes of heart attacks, strokes and mortality were observed when participants had a more aggressive treatment approach.

GM Tomatoes Produce Natural Health Compounds

It's ironic that folks who are hot for supposedly "natural" health promotors, such as resveratrol and genistein, may have to opt for the GMO variety if they want to avoid man-made compounds.

App Shows Promise Aiding Spina Bifida Patients

In a recent pilot study, young adults with spina bifida were given smartphones equipped with an app that helped to improve their self-management skills.