From 1986 to the present, the CDC has monitored pregnancy-related deaths. Surveillance data show a steadily increasing number of reported pregnancy related deaths up to 2012. The increase on its own may not turn heads, but in a global context, it depicts a slowly growing problem when compared to figures across other developed countries. And even more worrisome, experts have been unable to clearly identify the overall cause for the increase.
obesity
Obesity and excess body fat — especially the type around the middle — can lead to excess fat within the liver. When this occurs, it can diminish the liver's ability to function, and if continued long enough can lead to liver failure. But exercise (and it doesn't have to be extreme) can turn this problem around, at least in Chinese adults.
Obesity is considered a risk factor for several types of cancer — breast and colon cancer, for example. But some cancers might be considered risk factors for obesity — or at least weight gain, according to a recent study from Columbia University.
The latest anthropometric data from NHANES have been released — and the picture isn't pretty. Over a period of approximately 20 years, both men and women have added weight, especially around the middle.
Can calorie labeling really help people eat less? And if so, what type of label works best? A new study indicates that labels do help — and it may not make much difference for many people what type of label is presented.
Five different drugs, or drug combinations, are now available to help with weight loss. But which would be best for particular individuals? A new study provides some answers to this important question.
While obesity prevalence for adult men didn't change much between 2005 and 2014, for women it increased significantly. This is true especially in Black and Hispanic women — groups that must be targeted for greater prevention efforts.
Copper, that darling of gourmet chefs, is great for cookware but not so effective for arthritis sufferers. But eventually it may actually help promote fat breakdown in the body — if, that is, the results of a new study can be replicated.
Prostate cancer can be indolent, not posing a risk to life — or aggressive, leading to an increased risk of death. A new analysis from the large EPIC study suggests that increases in BMI and waist circumference are associated with an increased risk of the aggressive form, and thus to an increased mortality risk.
In hopes of tackling Thailand's obesity problem (Thai food is especially yummy and greasy), some creative minds have designed a plate that literally sucks the excess fat and calories from a meal.
The TV show "The Biggest Loser" may provide entertainment, but it does so at the expense of the contestants. ACSH advisor Dr. David Seres explains why, while delivering this message: Stop telling the obese to lose weight.
Obese children and adolescents are at risk of becoming obese adults — with many associated health issues. Thus a school-based intervention program that delivered promising reductions in obesity prevalence among middle school students deserved further attention and replication.