Dr. Marc Siegel

A French study found that higher consumption of certain food preservatives, including sodium nitrite and potassium sorbate, is linked to increased risks of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. The analysis of 112,395 adults over eight years revealed eight preservatives associated with these health issues, with ascorbic acid (a preservative form of vitamin C) also showing a 22% spike in hypertension risk.

Jill Biden expressed fear that former President Joe Biden was having a stroke during his 2024 debate performance, citing his slurred speech and confusion. Medical experts emphasize calling 911 immediately if stroke symptoms like weakness, slurred speech, or severe headache are observed, as rapid treatment is critical to prevent brain cell loss and improve outcomes.

Pam Bondi was diagnosed with thyroid cancer shortly after leaving the Department of Justice. She is undergoing treatment and recovering. Thyroid cancer prognosis is generally positive, with treatment options including surgery, radiation, and hormone therapy.

NASCAR driver Kyle Busch died at 41 from severe pneumonia that progressed to sepsis, according to his family's statement. The infection originated from an untreated sinus infection, leading to rapid complications including organ failure and acute respiratory distress syndrome.

A new study by the Alzheimer’s Association suggests that a person’s biological age, measured through blood metabolites, can predict dementia risk. Researchers found that a higher 'MileAge delta' (difference between metabolite-predicted age and actual age) correlates with increased risk of all-cause dementia, particularly vascular dementia. Those with both a high MileAge delta and the APOE gene had a 10-times greater dementia risk.

Hantavirus cases are rising, sparking concerns similar to the COVID-19 pandemic, but experts say the two viruses have major differences in terms of transmission and mutation. Hantavirus is mainly a secretion-borne virus and has not mutated significantly, unlike COVID-19. The current outbreak on a cruise ship is attributed to close quarters rather than a change in the virus itself.

A hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship has sparked fears, with eight patients infected and three dead, highlighting the dangers of rodent-borne diseases. The Andes strain of hantavirus can cause highly dangerous and deadly hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. The outbreak is believed to have originated from an infected rodent or person.

A deadly hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship in the Atlantic has left at least three people dead and five suspected cases, prompting an investigation by the World Health Organization. The virus is typically transmitted through contact with infected rodent droppings, but experts say the close quarters of the vessel could have amplified the risk. The World Health Organization is investigating the outbreak.

A suspected hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship has left at least three people dead and triggered an international investigation. The World Health Organization confirmed one case of hantavirus infection and five additional suspected cases are pending. Hantaviruses can cause severe respiratory or renal diseases in humans.

Fox & Friends launched Wellness Week to explore social media health trends, including red light therapy and cold plunges. Dr. Marc Siegel explained the science behind these treatments, noting their potential benefits for skin improvement and muscle recovery. However, he advised caution and consultation with a doctor before attempting extreme temperature therapies.

Research published in Cell Reports Medicine suggests a strong association between oral bacteria and gastric cancer, with 28 varying gut species identified in patients. The study, conducted by BGI Genomics in China, found oral bacteria like Streptococcus and Lactobacillus in both saliva and stool, indicating potential transmission from the mouth to the gut. However, more research is needed before clinical applications.

A highly contagious rotavirus is surging in the U.S., primarily affecting infants, young children, and elderly populations in nursing homes. Declining vaccination rates and post-pandemic disruptions are cited as key factors, with CDC data showing increased positive test rates. Experts warn of reduced herd immunity and rising healthcare visits linked to the outbreak.

A study from Columbia University found that cholesteatoma and eardrum perforation, treatable ear conditions, are linked to increased dementia risk, with surgical treatment slightly reducing the risk. Otosclerosis showed no significant association.

President Trump signed an executive order to fast-track research, funding, and potential FDA approval of psychedelic drugs like psilocybin and MDMA for treating PTSD, depression, and addiction. Supporters, including veterans' advocates and medical analysts, highlight potential benefits for treatment-resistant cases, while critics warn about insufficient safety and efficacy evidence.

A study led by UTHealth found that a high-dose flu vaccine reduces Alzheimer's risk by 55% in adults over 65 compared to standard doses. The research highlights a potential link between stronger vaccines and lower Alzheimer's risk, though causation remains unproven.

Researchers at NIDA and NIH developed a new opioid derivative, DFNZ, showing strong pain relief without addiction risks or respiratory depression in early tests. The study highlights potential for safer opioid alternatives for chronic pain and overdose prevention.