Preventive care Archive

A lower-than-usual white blood cell count is often temporary, especially after illness. Find out what your number may mean and when retesting might be needed.

Enlarged red blood cells on a routine blood test can have several explanations. Find out what your results may mean and when follow-up is needed.

Most cancer screening guidelines recommend an upper age limit to cease regular testing. But older adults should ask their doctor whether the benefits of continuing screening outweigh the risks, which may include unnecessary treatments and potentially dangerous complications.

A positive TB skin test can raise questions about infection, exposure, and what happens next. Find out which follow-up steps may be needed.

Aluminum is common in foods, cookware, and personal-care products, but questions remain about how much exposure or ingestion matters.

Transparent circles or other visual changes can appear before migraine pain. Find out what these symptoms may mean and what to discuss with your doctor.

Compared with regular yogurt, Greek yogurt delivers double the protein with fewer carbs—but also less calcium. Both types provide probiotics and are generally easier to digest than other dairy products. Look for unflavored versions or those with fewest added sugars, and limit saturated fat.

Breakfast can supply energy and nutrients at the time of day when the body’s metabolism works most efficiently. A nourishing morning meal can include some protein, fiber-rich carbs, and a fruit or vegetable—and it doesn’t have to be typical “breakfast food.”

Summer is a great time to take a hike, but it’s essential to make sure you’re prepared for the weather and conditions where you are. Hiking safely and planning ahead will make your trek more enjoyable.

Gray divorce—which involves couples ages 50 and older ending their marriage—has become more common over the past 30 years. While divorce increases the odds of mental and physical health problems at any age, older adults face heightened health risks during a stage when many people already have chronic conditions.