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1. Influenza (Flu)The flu is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads easily in crowded, indoor settings during winter. Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue.

• Prevention: Get an annual flu vaccine, which is recommended for everyone over six months old. Wash hands frequently with soap and water, avoid touching your face, and stay away from sick individuals. Wear a mask in high-risk areas if necessary.

2. Common ColdCaused by various viruses, the common cold leads to symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing, and mild cough. It’s more prevalent in winter due to increased indoor time.

• Prevention: Boost immunity with a balanced diet rich in vitamin C and zinc. Stay hydrated, avoid close contact with sick people, and disinfect frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs and phones.

3. PneumoniaThis lung infection, often a complication of the flu or cold, is more dangerous for the elderly or those with chronic conditions. Symptoms include chest pain, high fever, and difficulty breathing.

• Prevention: Get vaccinated with the pneumococcal vaccine, especially if you’re over 65 or have health issues. Practice good respiratory hygiene, such as covering your mouth during coughing, and seek early medical care if symptoms worsen.

4. NorovirusKnown as the “winter vomiting bug,” norovirus causes stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea. It spreads through contaminated food, water, or surfaces.

• Prevention: Wash hands thoroughly before eating or preparing food. Avoid sharing utensils and clean surfaces with bleach-based disinfectants. Stay home if infected to prevent spreading.

5. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)The reduced daylight in winter can lead to this form of depression, with symptoms like low energy, oversleeping, and mood changes.

• Prevention: Maximize exposure to natural light by spending time near windows or using light therapy lamps. Stay active with indoor exercises and maintain social connections through calls or community events.

6. BronchitisOften triggered by cold air or respiratory infections, bronchitis causes inflammation of the bronchial tubes, leading to a persistent cough and mucus production.

• Prevention: Wear a scarf over your mouth and nose to warm the air you breathe. Avoid smoking and polluted areas, and get vaccinated against flu and pneumonia to reduce risks.

General Tips for Staying Healthy

• Stay Warm: Dress in layers to maintain body heat and prevent hypothermia, especially in northern states with harsh winters.
• Hydrate and Eat Well: Drink plenty of water and consume warm, nutrient-rich foods like soups and fruits to support immunity.
• Regular Checkups: Monitor health with routine doctor visits, especially if you have pre-existing conditions.

By taking these preventive measures, you can reduce the risk of winter illnesses and enjoy a healthier season. Stay vigilant and consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist.Note: If you’d like an image to accompany this article (e.g., a winter health scene), please confirm, and I can assist with that.

As winter descends on North America, cold temperatures, dry air, and seasonal hazards pose unique challenges for seniors. To ensure older adults stay healthy and safe during the chilly months, here are key precautions to take.1. Stay Warm and CozyNorth American winters, especially in northern regions, can bring freezing temperatures and blizzards. Seniors, with slower metabolisms and reduced ability to regulate body temperature, are at higher risk of feeling cold or developing hypothermia. Here’s how to stay warm:

• Dress Smartly: Layer up with moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and windproof outerwear like a down jacket. Don’t forget hats, scarves, and gloves to protect your head, neck, and hands.
• Keep Indoors Toasty: Ensure your home’s heating system works well, maintaining an indoor temperature of at least 68°F (20°C). Use electric blankets or heating pads safely, avoiding prolonged use to prevent burns.
• Watch for Hypothermia: Symptoms like shivering, fatigue, confusion, or sluggishness require immediate warming and medical attention.

2. Protect Against Flu and Respiratory IllnessesWinter is peak season for flu and respiratory infections, and seniors’ weaker immune systems make them more vulnerable. Take these steps to stay healthy:

• Get Vaccinated: Receive annual flu shots and, if recommended, COVID-19 boosters and pneumococcal vaccines. Consult your doctor for guidance.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Wash hands frequently, especially after touching surfaces in public places. Avoid touching your face to reduce virus transmission.
• Ventilate Indoors: Open windows periodically for fresh air, but avoid drafts to stay comfortable.

3. Prevent FallsIcy sidewalks and snowy paths increase the risk of falls, which can be particularly dangerous for seniors with fragile bones. To stay safe:

• Wear Proper Footwear: Choose boots with non-slip soles for better traction on icy surfaces.
• Use Mobility Aids: Consider a cane or walker with ice grips for added stability. Clear walkways of snow and ice, or ask for help.
• Stay Indoors When Necessary: During severe weather, limit outdoor activities and arrange for grocery delivery or assistance.

4. Maintain Physical and Mental HealthWinter’s shorter days and colder weather can lead to reduced activity and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Seniors should:

• Stay Active Indoors: Try chair yoga, stretching, or light indoor exercises to maintain mobility and strength.
• Get Sunlight: Spend time near windows or use light therapy boxes to combat SAD and boost mood.
• Stay Connected: Combat isolation by calling friends, joining virtual community groups, or participating in local senior activities.

5. Ensure Proper Nutrition and HydrationCold weather can suppress appetite and thirst, but proper nutrition and hydration are vital:

• Eat Nutrient-Rich Foods: Focus on warm, hearty meals like soups and stews packed with vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink water regularly, as dry winter air and indoor heating can dehydrate you. Herbal teas or warm broths are great options.
• Stock Up: Keep a supply of non-perishable foods in case of snowstorms or limited mobility.

6. Prepare for EmergenciesWinter storms can disrupt power or access to services, so preparation is key:

• Emergency Kit: Stock blankets, flashlights, batteries, and non-perishable food in case of power outages.
• Medical Supplies: Ensure a sufficient supply of medications and keep contact information for your doctor and pharmacy handy.
• Check-In System: Arrange for family or neighbors to check on you during severe weather.

By taking these precautions, seniors can navigate North America’s winter safely and comfortably. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy the season!Note: If you’d like to generate an image to accompany this article (e.g., a cozy winter scene or a senior bundling up), please confirm, and I can assist with that.

Childhood hypertension serves as a critical predictor of hypertension in early adulthood, a condition that ranks as a leading risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and kidney disorders. Hypertension in children is defined as systolic or diastolic blood pressure reaching or exceeding the 90th percentile for their age, gender, and height based on normal-weight peers. The prevalence of this condition among adolescents is approximately 11%, with rates increasing alongside age and obesity levels. Key contributors to childhood hypertension include obesity, unhealthy diets, and physical inactivity, which are intricately linked to socioeconomic status and structural racism. This connection places a disproportionate burden on low-income and minority children, particularly non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic youth.Among non-pharmacological interventions, the “Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension” (DASH) diet is recommended. This approach emphasizes a high intake of fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy products, and reduced sodium and saturated fat consumption. However, widespread adoption remains limited due to insufficient promotion. The 2010 Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act mandated improvements in the nutritional standards of the U.S. National School Lunch Program and Breakfast Program, aligning school meals more closely with the DASH diet and establishing them as a primary source of nutritious food for children. Despite over 28 million children participating in the National School Lunch Program, some families—whose incomes slightly exceed free or reduced-price eligibility thresholds or who fear stigmatization—fail to fully utilize this resource.The Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) addresses this gap by allowing schools with a high proportion of low-income students to offer free breakfast and lunch to all students, significantly boosting participation rates and dietary quality. Since its nationwide expansion in 2014, over 47,000 schools have adopted CEP by 2024, benefiting more than 23 million children. Beyond federal initiatives, several states have independently promoted universal free meals during and after the pandemic. Given the increasing adoption of these policies, evaluating their health impacts is crucial. CEP holds the potential to lower childhood hypertension risk by improving nutrition, reducing obesity, and alleviating financial strain and food insecurity for families.

This study employed a difference-in-differences design, utilizing electronic health record (EHR) data from the Community Health Organizations (OCHIN) Network in 12 US states between 2013 and 2019. The study matched patients’ home addresses to schools and examined the association between school participation in the Community Health Program (CEP) and student blood pressure outcomes. The study included children aged 4 to 18 years, taking into account patient demographics (age, sex, race/ethnicity, health insurance status) and state Medicaid expansion policies. Statistical models controlled for time-invariant school characteristics and potential confounders to assess the causal impact of the CEP policy. The primary outcome measure was the proportion of patients with blood pressure exceeding the 90th percentile per school per school year. Secondary outcomes included blood pressure reaching the hypertension threshold (95th percentile) and mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure percentiles.

Results: 1,052 schools and 155,778 patients were included. The majority of students in these schools were from low-income families, and the racial composition was primarily Hispanic (46%), non-Hispanic Black (13%), and non-Hispanic White (25%). Among students in schools participating in the CEP, the proportion of students with blood pressure above the 90th percentile decreased significantly compared with students in non-participating schools, with an average reduction of 2.71 percentage points (95% confidence interval, −5.10 to −0.31), corresponding to a total net reduction of 11% over five years.

^{Unadjusted trends in the proportion of patients with elevated blood pressure measurements, by year the school adopted the community eligibility provision}

In summary, this study’s evidence supports the positive effects of universal free school meal policies on improving children’s blood pressure. CEP may effectively reduce the risk of hypertension by increasing school meal attendance, improving diet quality, reducing obesity rates, and alleviating household food insecurity. Such policies may help mitigate health inequalities, particularly among low-income and minority children. Schools that adopt CEP early experience greater blood pressure improvements due to the longer-term benefits. Although the prevalence of hypertension in US children has increased, the recent trend may be declining. Future research should examine the impact of improved school meal nutrition standards and the expansion of CEP on long-term trends in children’s blood pressure.

Original Source

Localio AM, Hebert PL, Knox MA, et al. School Provision of Universal Free Meals and Blood Pressure Outcomes Among Youths. JAMA Network Open. 2025;8(9):e2533186. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.33186

The academic information for this article was provided by Mays Medical. This article was translated using an independently developed AI academic robot and then proofread by a clinician. If any content is inaccurate, please leave a message.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD), including heart disease and stroke, remains the leading cause of death in the United States. The good news? Many cases are preventable through lifestyle changes and proactive habits. Here’s a concise guide to keeping your heart and brain healthy, backed by science and tailored for Americans.

1. Adopt a Heart-Healthy DietA balanced diet is your first line of defense. Focus on:

• Fruits and Vegetables: Aim for 5–7 servings daily, rich in antioxidants and fiber.
• Whole Grains: Choose oats, quinoa, or whole-grain bread over refined carbs.
• Healthy Fats: Opt for olive oil, avocados, and nuts instead of trans fats.
• Limit Sodium and Sugar: Keep sodium under 2,300 mg/day and avoid sugary drinks.

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends the Mediterranean or DASH diet to reduce cholesterol and blood pressure.

2. Stay Physically ActiveRegular exercise strengthens your heart and improves circulation. The CDC advises:

• 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity weekly (e.g., brisk walking, cycling).
• Muscle-strengthening exercises twice a week (e.g., bodyweight workouts or lifting).

Even small changes, like taking stairs or walking during lunch breaks, add up.

3. Maintain a Healthy WeightObesity is a major risk factor for CVD. In the U.S., over 40% of adults are obese. Aim for a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9. Losing just 5–10% of body weight can lower blood pressure and cholesterol.

4. Quit Smoking and Limit AlcoholSmoking damages blood vessels, and excessive alcohol raises blood pressure.

• Quit smoking: Use resources like the CDC’s Quitline (1-800-QUIT-NOW).
• Moderate alcohol: Men should limit to two drinks daily, women to one.

5. Manage StressChronic stress increases cortisol, which can elevate blood pressure and inflammation. Try:

• Mindfulness or meditation: Apps like Headspace are popular.
• Hobbies or social connections: Spend time with friends or pursue creative outlets.

6. Monitor Key Health MetricsRegular checkups catch issues early. Track:

• Blood Pressure: Aim for below 120/80 mmHg.
• Cholesterol: Keep LDL (“bad”) cholesterol low and HDL (“good”) high.
• Blood Sugar: Prevent diabetes, a major CVD risk factor.

7. Get Enough SleepPoor sleep (less than 7 hours nightly) is linked to higher CVD risk. Create a sleep-friendly environment:

Stick to a consistent sleep schedule.