February 16, 2026
A comprehensive review of 22 studies reveals intermittent fasting offers minimal advantage over traditional dieting for weight loss or quality of life. Experts highlight the need for more diverse, long-term studies, cautioning against the hype and emphasizing sustainable, medically guided approaches.
A recent study highlights a link between high consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and anxiety symptoms in adolescents, though causation isn't confirmed. It urges further research and public health strategies to address potential lifestyle factors contributing to rising adolescent anxiety.
DeepSeek, an AI tool, is revolutionizing mental health care for Chinese youth by offering scalable, anonymous support, addressing rising mental health issues. The service emphasizes privacy, cultural sensitivity, and complements human therapists through ethical oversight and robust data protections, promising affordable care for underserved regions.
A small trial reveals a single intravenous DMT dose significantly reduces depressive symptoms in treatment-resistant depression patients, with effects lasting up to six months. The study highlights DMT's potential in psychedelic therapy, though larger trials and regulatory approvals are needed for broader application.
Researchers from the University of Tokyo have developed AI-IR, a machine learning tool, to predict insulin resistance and link it to cancer risk across 12 types. Published in Nature Communications, the study highlights AI-IR's superior predictive power over traditional metrics like BMI, underscoring its potential in enhancing cancer risk stratification.
Researchers have identified a new biomarker, the Functional-Structural Ratio (FSR), linking hearing loss to cognitive decline. This discovery could aid in early screening and monitoring of dementia risk in patients with age-related hearing loss.
UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center launches CHANA, a resource tracking cancer trends and access to care in North Carolina. This tool aids decision-makers with detailed reports and dashboards.
Researchers have developed CAR T cells resistant to PGE2 signaling, potentially enhancing their effectiveness against solid tumors like pancreatic and bowel cancers. Clinical trials are set to begin with lymphoma patients, aiming to expedite future solid-tumor studies.
Researchers at the University of Málaga have identified senescent astrocytes as a key driver of Alzheimer's disease, presenting a new therapeutic target. Published in the Journal of Neuroinflammation, the study highlights the potential of senolytic drugs to protect neurons and slow cognitive decline, especially in APOE4/4 individuals.
Two international studies, published in Nature Genetics, reveal how host genetics shape gut microbiota, based on data from 28,669 individuals. This research highlights genetic links to diseases like gluten intolerance and cardiovascular conditions, advancing our understanding of the gene-microbiome-health relationship.
A major UK study of over 100,000 people links five diet patterns rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to increased lifespan. Findings highlight diet's role in longevity, even beyond genetic factors.
A large study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology reveals that higher-grade dysplasia in IBD patients significantly increases colorectal cancer risk. Conducted by researchers from NYU and Karolinska Institutet, the study stresses the importance of tailored surveillance based on dysplasia grades.
The NHS is testing value-based procurement for MedTech in 13 trusts, aiming for better cost-effectiveness and overall benefits. This initiative, launched by DHSC, will be evaluated before broader implementation, focusing on outcomes beyond just price.
Looksmaxxing, a rising trend among men involving unregulated self-cosmetic procedures, is raising health concerns. Clinicians are urged to address the risks and misinformation, particularly targeting young men influenced by social media.
A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association links sleep disorders to increased cardiovascular risk, urging their treatment as modifiable risk factors. This research highlights the compounded impact of insomnia and sleep apnea, especially in veterans, advocating for integrated treatments addressing both conditions.
A public health leader warns that screen time and social media pose an urgent threat to youth mental health, urging for stricter regulations. He recommends raising the social media age to 18 and calls for systemic solutions, emphasizing the need for preventive care and responsible technology use.
Pathogenic bacteria enhance SMOX activity in breast cancer, leading to DNA damage and tumor growth, per a study in Cancer Research. Researchers suggest SMOX as a biomarker and potential treatment target.
Walking at least 100 steps per minute can significantly boost cardiovascular health and reduce chronic disease risk, experts advise. To maximize benefits, incorporate regular longer walks, post-meal strolls, and strength training into your routine, aiming for 8,000 steps daily.
A new cell-based implant, functioning as an autonomous pancreas, offers a breakthrough in diabetes management by producing insulin without external intervention. Developed by Technion Israel Institute of Technology, this implant could revolutionize chronic disease treatment with its self-regulating, immune-protected design, pending human trials.
SGLT2 inhibitors are pivotal for heart failure treatment, yet clinician hesitancy and insurance challenges hinder their full potential. Despite safety concerns like ketoacidosis and hypoglycemia, these drugs offer broad benefits beyond glucose control, and are endorsed for various heart failure cases.