Key Takeaways Deep learning–estimated face age predicted overall survival, with each 10-year increase associated with a 39% higher mortality risk after multivariable adjustment, whereas chronological age lacked independent prognostic value. Early mortality risk rose with higher face age, and a face age ≥85 years identified elevated 2-year mortality irrespective of actual age. Spirometry-derived lung age was markedly older (median 98 years) yet minimally correlated with face age, and face age retained independent association with survival when modeled jointly. Face–chronological age discordance tracked outcomes, consistent with cumulative biological aging; older-appearing phenotypes fared worse, while younger-appearing phenotypes had better survival. Operational integration appears feasible because radiation oncology workflows routinely capture identification photographs, but prospective validation and bias assessment across diverse cohorts and confounders are required.

Key takeaways Tirzepatide is FDA-approved for weight loss and type 2 diabetes. In clinical trials, people lost an average of up to 20.9% of their body weight over 72 weeks. Retatrutide is an investigational drug that’s not yet FDA-approved. Early trials show average weight loss of up to 24.2% at 48 weeks and up to 28.7% at 68 weeks — higher than the average weight loss seen in trials of tirzepatide. Both medications cause similar side effects, mostly gastrointestinal, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation.

Key takeaways Yes, you can take Ozempic after gastric bypass or gastric sleeve surgery to lose more weight or prevent weight gain. Ozempic produces an average weight loss of up to 15% in people who regained weight after bariatric surgery or had more weight to lose. While the timing varies by person, research suggests it’s safe to start Ozempic at least six months after bariatric surgery, or whenever weight loss begins to plateau.

Key Takeaways Anthem BCBS coverage for Wegovy varies by plan and often excludes weight-loss medications. Eligibility typically depends on medical necessity, FDA-approved use, and meeting criteria like BMI thresholds and documented health conditions. Prior authorization is required for Wegovy under Anthem plans. Approval usually depends on provider documentation, lifestyle changes, and, sometimes, step therapy, which requires that lower-cost treatments or programs be tried first. If coverage is denied, options include appealing, requesting a formulary exception, exploring alternative medications, or using manufacturer savings programs to significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs for Wegovy.

Key Takeaways Medicare Part D covers prescription drugs, vaccines, and some medical supplies, but coverage varies by plan, making it essential to review formularies, tiers, and restrictions to understand what’s included and what you’ll pay. Not all plans cover the same medications or costs, so comparing options during Open Enrollment helps ensure your prescriptions are covered and can significantly reduce premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses. Staying proactive by reviewing plan changes annually, choosing generics, and using preferred pharmacies or savings programs can help you avoid unexpected costs and maximize the value of your Medicare prescription drug coverage.

Menopause is the time of life when estrogen levels fall and your periods stop for good. As estrogen levels go down, you may experience hot flashes, night sweats, and bothersome vaginal symptoms.Premarin (conjugated estrogens) is a combination of different estrogens made from an animal source — the urine of pregnant horses. Premarin is most often used as menopausal hormone therapy (MHT). MHT replaces estrogen to help relieve moderate to severe symptoms of menopause.But MHT isn’t without risks. Kn...

Key Takeaways Being consistent with your vitamin supplements is generally more important than taking them at specific times of day. Water-soluble vitamins, like vitamin C, are best taken on an empty stomach for better absorption. Fat-soluble vitamins, like those in a multivitamin, should be taken with meals that contain some fat for proper absorption.

If your parent is living with Parkinson’s disease, you may eventually notice changes that go beyond symptoms that affect mobility. Some patients begin to see, hear, or sense things that others do not. These experiences can be part of Parkinson’s psychosis.

When you share your life with someone who has Parkinson’s disease, you often notice small changes before anyone else does. Sometimes those changes affect perception or thinking, such as your partner mentioning things they see or hear that others do not. These experiences may be signs of Parkinson’s disease psychosis, a nonmotor complication that can develop as Parkinson’s progresses. Bringing up the possibility of Parkinson’s psychosis treatment with your spouse may be difficult. Approaching the...

Are you falling for medical myths? Explore 13 common health superstitions – from cracking knuckles to peeing on jellyfish stings – and find out what science says about these folk remedies and magical thinking.

Learn how Ozempic (semaglutide) works for weight loss and Type 2 diabetes. Get details on dosages, common side effects, average weight loss results and cost without insurance.

Undergoing treatment for myasthenia gravis (MG) can feel like a major commitment of your time and energy. Understanding what to expect during an MG infusion day can help you feel more prepared and comfortable throughout the process.

Key takeaways Cialis can last up to 36 hours, giving you more flexibility for when you have sex, while Viagra is typically taken 30 minutes to four hours before sex, making it ideal for more planned, shorter-term use. Cialis offers two dosing options: a daily low dose that can keep you ready at any time or a higher dose you can take as needed. Cialis and Viagra have similar side effects, but Cialis side effects may take longer to go away. Viagra’s effects tend to fade four hours or so after you take it. Both medications can be highly effective for treating erectile dysfunction, and choosing the right one depends on your lifestyle and needs.

Key takeaways: Common Metamucil (psyllium husk) side effects include nausea, gas, and bloating. Diarrhea and constipation are also possible. Metamucil side effects are typically mild, and you can often prevent them by slowly increasing your dosage over time and drinking plenty of fluids. In rare cases, Metamucil can cause a blockage in the esophagus or bowel. Not drinking enough fluids while taking it can raise your risk of these complications.

Is magnesium the answer to sleep woes? It won’t work for everyone, but the relaxing mineral might just be the thing you need to drift off to Dreamland (and stay there all night).

Key Takeaways Melanoma diagnoses are expected to increase by 10.6% in 2026, with 234,680 total cases projected in the U.S. Unprotected sun exposure and indoor tanning are major contributors to melanoma incidence, highlighting the need for UV protection. Despite rising incidence, melanoma mortality is declining due to treatment advances, with a 99% survival rate when detected early. Prevention and early detection are emphasized, with recommendations for daily sunscreen use, protective clothing, and regular skin exams.

Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is thought to be an autoimmune condition. When you have CIDP, your immune system sees your nerves as foreign and attacks them. The attack causes inflammation and damage to the protective coating around your nerves (myelin sheath). Damaged myelin can lead to muscle weakness and sensory problems, such as your ability to feel sensations like touch.CIDP may start as a pattern of weakness that slowly develops in the muscles of the hips, shoulde...

Most women transition into natural menopause between the ages of 45 and 56, but it rarely happens quickly. Menstrual cycle changes, night sweats, and other symptoms may appear in your 30s or 40s and continue for years before your period stops for good. During this phase, called perimenopause, declining estrogen can contribute to symptoms that affect sleep, mood, and quality of life.  Around 90% of women seek medical care for perimenopausal symptoms. Pharmacists can help reassure women that this...

Whether you’re a brand-new parent or you’ve done this before, bringing home a new baby shakes up your entire world—your brain included. Shifts in focus, concentration, and overall mental clarity are common, but “common” doesn’t mean you have to struggle through it. Think you have postpartum memory loss? Read on to learn more about postpartum brain fog and what you can do to feel more like yourself again.

If you have advanced Parkinson’s disease (PD), you may hear about a treatment option called vyalev (foscarbidopa/foslevodopa). It was approved by the FDA in 2024. It is also known by the brand name Produodopa in other countries.Parkinson’s disease is a condition that affects your brain’s ability to make dopamine, a chemical messenger involved in body movement. Managing PD often starts with taking oral medicines that help replace or mimic dopamine, such as levodopa. These medicines can work well...