One of the worst manifestations of cardiac disease is sudden death and according to a recent study it is far more prevalent than once thought.

Researchers said men at age 40 in the U.S. have a one-in-eight chance of suffering sudden cardiac death over the rest of their lives, a stark indication of the toll cardiovascular disease exacts on society. »more»

A roundup of interesting brain health news: »more»

Two recent studies published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) highlight the importance of controllable lifestyle habits that can have a significant impact on the risk profile of developing Alzheimer's disease. The studies (one in the U.S. »more»

Joseph Alpert, the editor-in-chief of the American Journal of Medicine, writes that many of his patients have at various times been told that "drinking caffeinated coffee could result in increased blood pressure, worsening of diabetic control, and might even trigger a myocardial infarction. Some of my patients also worry that drinking caffeinated coffee might cause cancer."

Those patients, Alpert says, are wrong. »more»

"Obesity epidemic" is a cliche -- but it now appears that you can 'catch' weight gain from your friends.

Last weekend's New York Times magazine ran a fascinating article on recent research showing the power social networks have on physical and mental health. Your friends, it seems, influence your weight and even your happiness. »more»

Researchers using advanced brain imaging techniques and investigating the question "Why are we nice to others?" have confirmed what social psychologists have long suspected, because it makes us feel good. Furthermore, we are hard-wired to feel good when we good things for others. »more»

Regular physical exercise may help protect against mild cognitive impairment, according to a Mayo Clinic study. »more»

After a contentious taping of a recent Oprah Winfrey show featuring actress/author Suzanne Somers, a number of medical experts have spoken out over inaccuracies and dangerous advice dispensed during the show and in Somers' book which was heavily promoted. From Newsweek »more»

Doctors, dietitians, and dieters have all asked the question--not to mention authors, talk show hosts and just about everyone else. What diet works the best? We finally have an answer thanks to the longest, largest and most rigorous test of dieting approaches the results of which were published today in the New England Journal of Medicine. »more»

Conventional wisdom is that nostalgia is a worthless waste of time and it is often derided by mental health professionals as well. Being nostalgic is often considered synonymous with being stuck in the past. Not so fast says a recent study published in the journal Psychological Science. »more»