https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/health_medicine/birth_defects/ Read the latest medical research on birth defects including risk factors, detection and treatment options. en-us Thu, 04 Jun 2026 11:25:30 EDT Thu, 04 Jun 2026 11:25:30 EDT 60 https://www.sciencedaily.com/images/scidaily-logo-rss.png https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/health_medicine/birth_defects/ For more science news, visit ScienceDaily. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260604044236.htm A newly discovered genetic clock acts as the master timekeeper for development, orchestrating crucial bursts of gene activity throughout a worm’s growth. When the clock is disrupted, development stops, offering fresh clues about how growth-related disorders may arise. Thu, 04 Jun 2026 05:36:05 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260604044236.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260603023919.htm A massive study of more than 600,000 U.S. veterans suggests that popular GLP-1 drugs such as semaglutide may do far more than help with diabetes and weight loss—they could also fight addiction itself. Researchers found that people taking these medications were less likely to develop substance use disorders involving alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, cocaine, opioids, and other drugs, while those already struggling with addiction experienced fewer overdoses, hospitalizations, emergency visits, and drug-related deaths. Wed, 03 Jun 2026 10:04:58 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260603023919.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260603015356.htm A newly identified group of amygdala neurons appears to play a central role in anxiety and social behavior. Restoring normal activity in this tiny brain circuit reversed anxiety and social deficits in mice, revealing a promising new target for future treatments. Wed, 03 Jun 2026 08:16:56 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260603015356.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260602021645.htm A major study suggests that some of the groundwork for brain development may be shaped before birth through a surprising partnership between a baby’s genes and gut microbes. Researchers found that epigenetic changes present at birth can influence how the gut microbiome develops during the first year of life, and certain combinations were linked to early signs of autism and ADHD by age three. Tue, 02 Jun 2026 10:18:47 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260602021645.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260602021634.htm Scientists have uncovered evidence that autism may include at least two biologically distinct subtypes, each marked by a different pattern of brain communication. By combining brain scans from nearly 1,000 people with autism with insights from 20 genetically engineered mouse models, researchers identified a “hyperconnectivity” subtype, where brain regions communicate more than usual, and a “hypoconnectivity” subtype, where communication is reduced. Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:46:00 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/06/260602021634.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260530053429.htm A Salk Institute study found that a simple dietary amino acid, methionine, dramatically improved survival in mice facing severe infections and inflammatory conditions. Rather than directly targeting the immune system, methionine boosted kidney filtration, helping the body flush out excess inflammatory molecules that can cause tissue damage, brain dysfunction, wasting, and death. Mon, 01 Jun 2026 09:44:52 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260530053429.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260530004626.htm A new study suggests fish oil may help reduce insulin resistance even in people who aren't obese. In diabetic rats, omega-3 supplementation improved blood sugar levels, cholesterol, and inflammation by shifting immune cells into a more anti-inflammatory mode. Sun, 31 May 2026 01:15:13 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260530004626.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260529043656.htm Using cannabis edibles and alcohol together may make drivers far more impaired than either substance alone, according to new research from Johns Hopkins. Even more concerning, common field sobriety tests often failed to detect the cannabis-related impairment. Fri, 29 May 2026 09:42:07 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260529043656.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260527023206.htm A new brain imaging study has found no evidence of widespread brain inflammation in patients suffering from prolonged symptoms after COVID-19 infection. Instead, the most severe long COVID symptoms were associated with increased brain activity in regions involved in mood and emotion. Thu, 28 May 2026 01:44:44 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260527023206.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260526233433.htm Scientists in Japan have created powerful new vitamin K-based compounds that may help the brain regenerate lost neurons — a breakthrough that could one day change how diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s are treated. By combining vitamin K with components related to vitamin A, the researchers developed compounds that were about three times more effective at turning neural stem cells into neurons than natural vitamin K alone. Wed, 27 May 2026 00:02:46 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260526233433.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260524021151.htm A massive international study could upend 40 years of heart attack treatment. Researchers found that beta blockers—routinely prescribed after uncomplicated heart attacks—offered no real benefit for patients whose heart function remained normal, despite being given to millions worldwide. Even more surprising, women taking the drugs faced a higher risk of death, repeat heart attack, or hospitalization for heart failure compared to women who didn’t receive them. Mon, 25 May 2026 08:36:20 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260524021151.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260523103914.htm By analyzing over 400,000 Reddit posts, researchers discovered that users of popular GLP-1 weight-loss drugs frequently discussed unexpected symptoms like menstrual irregularities, chills, and hot flashes. The findings suggest AI could turn social media into a powerful early-warning system for spotting side effects that clinical trials may miss. Sun, 24 May 2026 07:30:31 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260523103914.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260521072402.htm Scientists are uncovering a surprising truth about aging cells: some may damage the body, while others help protect it. The discovery is fueling a new wave of precision anti-aging therapies aimed at removing only the harmful “zombie” cells without disrupting the body’s natural repair systems. Fri, 22 May 2026 00:28:12 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260521072402.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260520233218.htm Scientists have uncovered alarming new evidence that a common insecticide may leave lasting marks on the developing brain before a child is even born. Researchers studying New York City children found that prenatal exposure to chlorpyrifos — a pesticide once widely used indoors and still used in agriculture — was linked to widespread brain abnormalities and weaker motor skills years later. Thu, 21 May 2026 08:27:22 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260520233218.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260520093731.htm A huge international review found that GLP-1 weight-loss drugs significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, and premature death over the long term. Researchers say these medications could become a major weapon against cardiovascular disease — not just obesity and diabetes. Thu, 21 May 2026 09:02:24 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260520093731.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260515002201.htm Cannabis use among older adults is rising fast, but today’s marijuana is far more potent than many people realize — and experts warn the risks may be underestimated. Stanford Medicine specialists say modern cannabis can increase the chances of heart problems, falls, memory issues, dangerous drug interactions, and even addiction, especially for people over 65. Fri, 15 May 2026 08:18:42 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260515002201.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260504211842.htm Scientists have developed a breakthrough injectable biomaterial that travels through the bloodstream to repair damaged tissue from within, reducing inflammation and jumpstarting healing. In animal studies, it successfully treated heart attack damage and even showed promise for conditions like traumatic brain injury and pulmonary hypertension. Unlike earlier approaches that required direct injection into the heart, this new therapy can be delivered intravenously, allowing it to spread evenly and act quickly. Tue, 05 May 2026 14:20:47 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260504211842.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260504023827.htm A new study suggests depression may soon be detectable through a simple blood test—by tracking how certain immune cells age. Researchers found that accelerated aging in monocytes, a type of white blood cell, is closely tied to the emotional and cognitive symptoms of depression, like hopelessness and loss of pleasure, rather than physical symptoms such as fatigue. Mon, 04 May 2026 03:17:17 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260504023827.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260502233924.htm GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide—best known for treating diabetes and driving weight loss under the brand names Ozempic and Wegovy—may also deliver a surprising mental health boost. In a massive study tracking nearly 100,000 people over more than a decade, researchers found that these medications were linked to significantly fewer psychiatric hospital visits and sick days. Mon, 04 May 2026 02:14:05 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260502233924.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260502233915.htm Drugs designed to clear amyloid beta from the brain—once seen as a promising path to slowing Alzheimer’s—may not actually help patients in any meaningful way, according to a major review of over 20,000 participants. Even more concerning, they may increase the risk of brain swelling and bleeding, sometimes without obvious symptoms. Mon, 04 May 2026 01:42:05 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260502233915.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260428045556.htm A decades-old drug once used to treat sleeping sickness is now showing surprising promise against an ultra-rare and life-threatening genetic disorder called Bachmann-Bupp syndrome (BABS). Early patient treatments suggest the drug, DFMO, may ease severe symptoms by targeting the underlying genetic malfunction. Researchers have already treated a handful of patients with encouraging results, but progress has been slowed by regulatory and logistical hurdles. Wed, 29 Apr 2026 01:28:38 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260428045556.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260422003024.htm Scientists have discovered that combining two existing drugs can dramatically reduce liver fat linked to a common and often silent disease. The treatment not only improved liver health in animal models but also showed potential to lower heart-related risks. Interestingly, using lower doses of both drugs together worked just as well as higher doses alone. While promising, the findings still need to be tested in humans. Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:51:12 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260422003024.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260415043630.htm A surprising discovery from high-altitude animals like yaks and Tibetan antelopes could reshape how we treat nerve damage in humans. Scientists found that a genetic mutation helping these animals survive low-oxygen environments also protects and repairs the myelin sheath—the vital coating around nerve fibers that’s damaged in diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS) and cerebral paralysis. Wed, 15 Apr 2026 04:36:30 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260415043630.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260411022023.htm Putting on weight earlier in life may be more dangerous than previously thought. Researchers found that early adulthood obesity significantly raises the risk of premature death, especially from major diseases like heart disease and diabetes. The longer the body carries excess weight, the greater the damage appears to be. Interestingly, cancer risk in women didn’t follow this pattern, suggesting other biological factors are at play. Sat, 11 Apr 2026 09:54:18 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260411022023.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260408225950.htm Chronic inflammation often works quietly in the background but can fuel serious diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. New research reveals that everyday plant compounds—like menthol from mint, cineole from eucalyptus, and capsaicin from chili peppers—can team up inside immune cells to dramatically boost their anti-inflammatory power. While individual compounds showed modest effects, certain combinations amplified results hundreds of times over by activating different cellular pathways at once. Thu, 09 Apr 2026 02:57:22 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260408225950.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260408225941.htm Scientists are uncovering a surprising connection between autism and ADHD that goes deeper than labels. Instead of diagnoses, it’s the severity of autism-like traits that seems to shape how the brain is wired—even in children who don’t officially have autism. The study found that certain brain networks tied to thinking and social behavior stay unusually connected in kids with stronger autism symptoms, hinting at a different developmental path. Thu, 09 Apr 2026 08:21:49 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260408225941.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260408095346.htm A new survey reveals a striking disconnect in how Americans think about autism research. While nearly everyone agrees that studying the autistic brain is essential, most people are unaware that brain donation after death is a key part of making that research possible. Unlike organ donation, brain donation is a separate process, and widespread confusion remains about how it works, when it must occur, and who can participate. Wed, 08 Apr 2026 22:18:02 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260408095346.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260404082652.htm Many people think that occasional binge drinking is harmless if they otherwise drink in moderation, but new research suggests that assumption may be dangerously wrong. A large U.S. study found that people with metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), a condition affecting about one in three adults, face a much higher risk of serious liver scarring if they engage in heavy drinking even just once a month. Sat, 04 Apr 2026 08:29:44 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260404082652.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260402042751.htm A new clinical trial suggests that what people eat could finally offer real relief for Crohn’s disease, a condition that has long lacked clear dietary guidance. Researchers found that a “fasting-mimicking diet” — involving just five days a month of very low-calorie, plant-based meals — led to noticeable improvements in symptoms for most participants. Even more striking, the diet didn’t just make patients feel better; it also reduced key biological markers of inflammation linked to the disease. Fri, 03 Apr 2026 04:55:54 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260402042751.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260402042740.htm A newly identified gene mutation may help explain why schizophrenia patients struggle to update their understanding of reality. The mutation disrupts a brain circuit involved in flexible decision-making, causing mice to stick with outdated choices even when conditions change. Researchers pinpointed the issue to a key thalamus–prefrontal cortex pathway. By reactivating this circuit, they were able to restore normal behavior—raising hope for future therapies. Fri, 03 Apr 2026 03:10:50 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260402042740.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260331001107.htm A surprising breakthrough suggests that a drug best known as Viagra could help treat a devastating childhood disease. Researchers found that sildenafil significantly improved symptoms in patients with Leigh syndrome—a rare and often fatal disorder that affects the brain and muscles. In a small study, patients showed stronger muscles, fewer seizures, and better recovery from dangerous metabolic crises, with some experiencing dramatic improvements in mobility and daily life. Tue, 31 Mar 2026 08:33:45 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260331001107.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260330001147.htm Scientists have uncovered a surprising secret about our DNA: it’s not a static blueprint, but a constantly shifting, folding structure that helps control how genes turn on and off. Researchers at the Salk Institute found that different parts of the genome loop and unloop at different speeds, with more active regions constantly reshaping themselves to support gene activity. Tue, 31 Mar 2026 06:47:40 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260330001147.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260330001126.htm Just a few minutes of getting out of breath each day could dramatically cut your risk of major diseases—including heart disease, dementia, and diabetes. A large study of nearly 100,000 people found that it’s not just how much you move, but how intensely you move that matters. Short bursts of vigorous activity—like rushing for a bus or climbing stairs quickly—were linked to striking reductions in disease risk, especially for inflammatory conditions and brain health. Mon, 30 Mar 2026 01:07:46 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260330001126.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328043554.htm A major new U.S. cholesterol guideline is shifting the focus toward earlier, more personalized prevention of heart disease. It urges people to start screening sooner—sometimes even in childhood—and highlights the importance of tracking not just LDL (“bad”) cholesterol but also genetic risk factors like lipoprotein(a). A new, more advanced risk calculator now uses broader health data to better predict heart attack and stroke risk over decades. Sun, 29 Mar 2026 05:43:08 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328043554.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260326075552.htm A new study reveals that high doses of antioxidants—often seen as harmless or beneficial—may actually impact future generations. Male mice given common supplements like NAC produced offspring with subtle but significant facial and skull changes. Researchers believe this is tied to altered sperm DNA, even though the fathers showed no outward health issues. Fri, 27 Mar 2026 08:41:19 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260326075552.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260325005908.htm Flower nectar often contains small amounts of alcohol, meaning pollinators like hummingbirds are drinking it all day long. Despite consuming human-equivalent amounts, they show no signs of intoxication—suggesting a surprising evolutionary tolerance. Wed, 25 Mar 2026 07:05:29 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260325005908.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260324230057.htm New fathers appear to have fewer mental health diagnoses during pregnancy and the early months after birth. But that early stability does not last. About a year later, depression and stress-related disorders increase significantly, surprising researchers. The findings suggest that the emotional toll of fatherhood builds over time rather than hitting immediately. Tue, 24 Mar 2026 23:10:24 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260324230057.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260322020250.htm GLP-1 medications like semaglutide (Ozempic) may offer unexpected mental health benefits alongside weight loss. A large study found major drops in depression, anxiety, and psychiatric-related hospital visits among users. Even substance use disorders were significantly lower during treatment. Researchers suspect both lifestyle improvements and direct brain effects could be at play. Sun, 22 Mar 2026 08:03:11 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260322020250.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260319074558.htm Carrying extra fat around the waist may be more dangerous than the number on the scale suggests. Researchers found that belly fat was more strongly linked to heart failure risk than BMI, even in people with normal weight. Inflammation seems to play a key role, helping explain why this type of fat is especially harmful. Measuring waist size could offer a simple way to detect hidden risk earlier. Thu, 19 Mar 2026 19:40:51 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260319074558.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260319044656.htm The largest review of medicinal cannabis to date found it doesn’t effectively treat anxiety, depression, or PTSD—despite millions using it for those reasons. Researchers warn it could even make mental health worse, raising risks like psychosis and addiction while delaying proven treatments. Some limited benefits were seen for conditions like insomnia and autism, but the evidence is weak. The findings are fueling calls for stricter oversight as cannabis use continues to rise. Fri, 20 Mar 2026 08:27:27 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260319044656.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260318033134.htm A risky but often lifesaving surgery that removes damaged parts of the small intestine can leave patients facing a new threat: serious liver damage with no available treatment. Now, scientists have developed a promising compound that works directly in the gut to shield the liver and improve how the body absorbs nutrients. In mouse studies, the drug boosted weight gain, reduced harmful liver scarring, and avoided side effects by staying confined to the intestines. Wed, 18 Mar 2026 03:31:34 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260318033134.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260317064444.htm Early life stress may set the stage for long-term digestive problems by disrupting the gut-brain connection. Studies in both mice and thousands of children found links to symptoms like pain, constipation, and IBS. Scientists discovered that different biological pathways control different gut issues, hinting at more personalized treatments in the future. The research also highlights how a child’s early environment can have lasting physical effects—not just emotional ones. Tue, 17 Mar 2026 22:08:54 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260317064444.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260307155943.htm Researchers have uncovered a surprising molecular chain reaction in the brain that may play a role in some forms of autism. The study suggests that nitric oxide, a tiny signaling molecule normally involved in fine-tuning communication between brain cells, can sometimes trigger a cascade of changes inside neurons. When nitric oxide activity rises, it can alter a protective protein called TSC2, weakening an important cellular brake and allowing the mTOR pathway, which controls growth and protein production, to become overactive. Sat, 07 Mar 2026 20:28:40 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260307155943.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260306224238.htm Mayo Clinic researchers have identified a rare mutation in the MET gene that can directly cause metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. The mutation disrupts the liver’s ability to process fat, leading to inflammation, scarring, and potentially cirrhosis. The discovery began with a father and daughter who had the disease without typical risk factors. Large-scale genomic data suggests similar rare variants may quietly contribute to the disease in many more people. Sat, 07 Mar 2026 06:04:29 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260306224238.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260306145621.htm Researchers have discovered a new way to increase a key brain protein damaged in Rett syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that affects thousands of children worldwide. Early studies in mice and patient-derived cells show the approach can restore normal brain cell function, raising hopes for future therapies. Fri, 06 Mar 2026 21:18:09 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260306145621.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260304184223.htm Popular weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro may do more than help people shed pounds. New research suggests these GLP-1 medications could also help protect the heart after a heart attack by restoring blood flow in tiny blood vessels that often remain blocked even after doctors reopen a major artery. Wed, 04 Mar 2026 20:09:30 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260304184223.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260304184215.htm A new experimental drug is showing remarkable promise for children with Dravet syndrome, a severe genetic form of epilepsy. In clinical trials, the treatment zorevunersen cut seizures by as much as 91% while also improving quality of life for many patients. The therapy works by boosting the function of a key gene involved in nerve cell signaling. Encouraging results have led researchers to launch a larger Phase 3 trial. Wed, 04 Mar 2026 21:14:30 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260304184215.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260302030642.htm As millions turn to ChatGPT and other AI chatbots for therapy-style advice, new research from Brown University raises a serious red flag: even when instructed to act like trained therapists, these systems routinely break core ethical standards of mental health care. In side-by-side evaluations with peer counselors and licensed psychologists, researchers uncovered 15 distinct ethical risks — from mishandling crisis situations and reinforcing harmful beliefs to showing biased responses and offering “deceptive empathy” that mimics care without real understanding. Mon, 02 Mar 2026 10:04:35 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260302030642.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260227061818.htm Heart disease is on track to tighten its grip on American women. New projections from the American Heart Association warn that over the next 25 years, cardiovascular disease will rise sharply, driven largely by a surge in high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. By 2050, nearly 60% of women in the U.S. could have high blood pressure, and close to one in three women ages 22 to 44 may already be living with some form of heart disease. Fri, 27 Feb 2026 06:18:18 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260227061818.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260222092324.htm People whose sugar intake was restricted before birth and in early childhood had markedly lower rates of heart disease later in life. Compared to those never exposed to rationing, their risks of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and cardiovascular death were cut by roughly 20–30%. Mon, 23 Feb 2026 09:21:48 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260222092324.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260222085209.htm Babies born in the early 2000s were exposed in the womb to far more “forever chemicals” than researchers once realized, according to a new study. By using advanced chemical screening on umbilical cord blood, scientists detected 42 different PFAS compounds, including many that standard tests do not routinely check for. These long lasting chemicals are found in common products like nonstick cookware, food packaging, and stain resistant fabrics, and they can build up in the body over time. Mon, 23 Feb 2026 07:29:47 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260222085209.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260222085203.htm Scientists have created a blood test that can estimate when Alzheimer’s symptoms are likely to begin. By measuring a protein called p-tau217, the model predicts symptom onset within roughly three to four years. The protein mirrors the silent buildup of amyloid and tau in the brain long before memory loss appears. This advance could speed up preventive drug trials and eventually guide personalized care. Mon, 23 Feb 2026 06:46:07 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260222085203.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260221060942.htm Researchers tested whether generative AI could handle complex medical datasets as well as human experts. In some cases, the AI matched or outperformed teams that had spent months building prediction models. By generating usable analytical code from precise prompts, the systems dramatically reduced the time needed to process health data. The findings hint at a future where AI helps scientists move faster from data to discovery. Sat, 21 Feb 2026 06:17:29 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260221060942.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260217005806.htm A new University at Buffalo study suggests cannabis-infused beverages could help some people cut back on alcohol. In a survey of cannabis users, those who drank cannabis beverages reported cutting their weekly alcohol intake roughly in half and binge drinking less often. Nearly two-thirds said they reduced or stopped drinking alcohol after starting cannabis drinks. Tue, 17 Feb 2026 23:51:59 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260217005806.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260215085001.htm Researchers tracked more than 400 toddlers to see whether mRNA COVID-19 vaccination during or just before pregnancy was linked to autism or developmental delays. After detailed assessments of speech, motor skills, behavior, and social development, they found no meaningful differences between vaccinated and unvaccinated groups. Experts say the results provide strong reassurance about vaccine safety in pregnancy. Sun, 15 Feb 2026 09:51:05 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260215085001.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260212025550.htm A massive review of 23 randomized trials found that statins do not cause the vast majority of side effects listed on their labels. Memory problems, depression, sleep issues, weight gain, and many other symptoms appeared just as often in people taking a placebo. Only a few side effects showed any link to statins — and even those were rare. Sun, 15 Feb 2026 00:35:50 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260212025550.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260210082921.htm Autism has long been thought of as a condition that mostly affects boys, but a massive study from Sweden suggests that idea may be misleading. Tracking nearly 3 million people over decades, researchers found that while boys are diagnosed more often in childhood, girls steadily catch up during their teenage years. By early adulthood, autism diagnoses among males and females are nearly equal. Tue, 10 Feb 2026 09:19:46 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260210082921.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260210040608.htm Why does the same virus barely faze one person while sending another to the hospital? New research shows the answer lies in a molecular record etched into our immune cells by both our genes and our life experiences. Scientists at the Salk Institute have created a detailed epigenetic map of human immune cells, revealing how inherited traits and past exposures—like infections, vaccines, or even environmental chemicals—shape immune responses in different ways. Wed, 11 Feb 2026 00:02:01 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260210040608.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260210040559.htm Human evolution has long been tied to growing brain size, and new research suggests prenatal hormones may have played a surprising role. By studying the relative lengths of index and ring fingers — a clue to oestrogen and testosterone exposure in the womb — researchers found that higher prenatal estrogen was linked to larger head size in newborn boys. Tue, 10 Feb 2026 09:42:37 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260210040559.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260207092904.htm A major study suggests menopause is linked to changes in brain structure, mental health, and sleep. Brain scans revealed grey matter loss in areas tied to memory and emotional regulation, while many women reported increased anxiety, depression, and fatigue. Hormone therapy did not reverse these effects, though it may slow age-related declines in reaction speed. Researchers say menopause could represent an important turning point for brain health. Sat, 07 Feb 2026 09:52:48 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260207092904.htm