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Early warning signs in your back that could signal cancer

24. June, 2026

Spinal tumors are rare growths that develop in or around the spine, spinal cord, or nerves.

They can be either benign or malignant and may cause symptoms such as pain, sensory changes, and reduced mobility, according to the Mayo Clinic.

What is a spinal tumor?

A spinal tumor is a growth that develops in or around the spine, spinal cord, or nerves.

These tumors can be either benign or malignant.

Spinal cancer often originates from other cancers

Around 95 percent of spinal cancer cases occur when cancer has spread to the spine from another part of the body.

Tumors can develop in several parts of the spine

Spinal tumors can develop anywhere along the spine, but they are most commonly found in the middle section behind the chest or in the lower back.

The neck is affected less frequently.

Pain can be an early sign

A spinal tumor can put pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, causing pain in the back or neck.

Pain that worsens at night or when lying down may be an early symptom.

Treatment depends on the nature of the tumor

The choice of treatment depends on the tumor’s size, type, and location.

Options may include surgery, radiation therapy, or medication.

Some tumors only require monitoring

Small or slow-growing tumors do not always need immediate treatment.

In some cases, regular MRI scans are sufficient.

There are several types of spinal tumors

Spinal tumors are classified according to where they develop.

They may arise in the bones of the spine, the membranes surrounding the spinal cord, or within the spinal cord tissue itself.

Persistent pain is the most common symptom

The most common symptom is back or neck pain that does not go away.

The pain may be described as dull, sharp, or burning.

Symptoms can affect the arms and legs

When a spinal tumor presses on nerves, it can cause numbness, tingling, or reduced sensation in the arms, legs, hands, or feet.

Muscle weakness can make daily life more difficult

Some people experience muscle weakness or difficulty walking because the tumor affects nerve function.

Balance may be affected

Pressure on the spinal cord or nerves can lead to problems with balance and coordination, making movement less stable.

Advanced disease can affect bladder and bowel function

In severe cases, certain nerves may become compressed, resulting in bladder or bowel problems.

Other cancers can spread to the spine

Many spinal tumors in adults are caused by cancer that originated elsewhere in the body and later spread to the spine.

Early treatment can reduce the risk of damage

Prompt diagnosis and treatment can help protect nerves, preserve strength, and reduce the risk of permanent complications.

Common ibuprofen habit could slow recovery

Mie Hermansen

24. June, 2026

Common ibuprofen habit could slow recovery

When pain appears suddenly, whether from a twisted ankle, a pulled muscle or a minor injury, most people want relief as quickly as possible. For many, that means reaching straight for ibuprofen.

However, according to reporting by Daily Express, citing NHS doctor Dr Amir Khan, taking the popular painkiller too soon after an injury may not always be the best approach. Medical experts are increasingly highlighting the important role inflammation plays during the body’s earliest stages of healing.

The body’s repair system

After an injury, the body immediately activates a complex repair process. One of the first responses is inflammation, which causes swelling, tenderness and warmth around the affected area.

While inflammation is often viewed as something negative, healthcare professionals say it serves an essential purpose. It helps direct immune cells to damaged tissue, allowing the body to begin repairing itself.

Researchers have spent years studying how anti-inflammatory medicines interact with this natural response. Evidence suggests that reducing inflammation too early could interfere with some of the body’s recovery mechanisms.

Why timing matters

Ibuprofen belongs to a group of medicines known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It works by reducing inflammation and easing pain, making it one of the most widely used medications worldwide.

According to Dr Amir Khan, people recovering from injuries such as sprains or minor fractures may benefit from allowing the body’s initial healing response to take place before using ibuprofen. The concern is that suppressing inflammation immediately after an injury could slow down recovery in some cases.

Common side effects

Although ibuprofen is considered safe when used correctly, it can still cause side effects. Common examples include:

Stomach discomfort
Nausea
Headaches
Dizziness
Diarrhoea or constipation

The NHS advises people to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible period and to seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.

Many people already have cumin at home – could it do more than add flavor?

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

24. June, 2026

Many people already have cumin at home – could it do more than add flavor?

Many spices are used every day in cooking, but some of them are also being studied for their potential health benefits.

One of them has recently attracted increased attention from researchers.

According to the Greek media outlet Kynigesia, several studies suggest that certain natural compounds in the spice may have a positive effect on the body’s digestion and metabolism.

More than just flavor

The interest is partly due to researchers examining whether the spice can help the body convert energy more efficiently.

Its impact on appetite and blood sugar levels is also being studied, both of which play a role in weight management.

However, the spice remains best known for its distinctive flavor and is used in many dishes around the world.

Used as a beverage

Some people choose to use the spice as a hot drink.

The seeds are placed in hot water or briefly boiled to extract their flavor compounds.

According to Kynigesia, this drink is associated with reduced bloating and improved digestion.

Some people add lemon or honey to make the taste milder.

The spice

Although the results are interesting, experts emphasize that no spice or drink alone can lead to significant weight loss.

A healthy diet and regular exercise remain the most important factors.

The spice that researchers are focusing on is cumin.

According to Kynigesia, the studies suggest that it may be a useful supplement to a healthy lifestyle, but not a solution in itself.

New study: Critical sunscreen videos generate the most engagement on TikTok

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

24. June, 2026

New study: Critical sunscreen videos generate the most engagement on TikTok

Sunscreen is a popular topic on TikTok, where influencers and users regularly share skincare advice.

According to a new study published in PLOS Digital Health, the vast majority of the platform’s most-viewed sunscreen-related videos encouraged the use of sunscreen.

Researchers analyzed nearly 1,000 popular videos posted under the largest sunscreen-related hashtags.

The results showed that approximately 87 percent of the videos spoke positively about sunscreen.

Health rarely mentioned

Although many videos recommended sunscreen, the focus was often on appearance and skincare rather than health.

The researchers found that only about six percent of the videos directly mentioned that sunscreen can help reduce the risk of skin cancer.

Yet this is one of the primary reasons why health authorities recommend using sunscreen.

According to the researchers, sunscreen is therefore often presented as a beauty product rather than a tool for protecting health.

Attention and engagement

Critical videos made up only a small share of the content.

Around six percent of the videos were critical of sunscreen, while an even smaller number claimed that the product could be harmful or unnecessary.

However, when the researchers examined user behavior, a different picture emerged.

The critical videos received proportionally more likes, comments, and shares than videos promoting sunscreen.

The study therefore concludes that misinformation about sunscreen does not occupy a large space on TikTok, but it is more successful at attracting attention and generating engagement among users.

This simple workout activates the entire body in 30 minutes

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

24. June, 2026

This simple workout activates the entire body in 30 minutes

Many people want to exercise efficiently without spending a lot of time in a gym. As a result, short strength-training sessions at home are attracting growing interest among fitness enthusiasts.

According to Woman and Home, fitness trainer Caroline Idiens has shared a workout program that can be completed with dumbbells in 30 minutes.

She is the founder of Caroline’s Circuits and has more than two million followers on social media.

Home workout

The program is demonstrated together with Jenni Falconer, who also has a strong interest in fitness. They use three-kilogram dumbbells.

Woman and Home notes that the weight can be adjusted to suit the individual. The important thing is to choose dumbbells that you can lift throughout the entire workout.

Several exercises in sequence

The workout consists of nine exercises performed one after another.

This keeps the body working without long breaks.

The exercises are designed to engage multiple muscle groups at the same time, including the legs, glutes, core, shoulders, and arms.

The nine exercises

Here is a brief list of the nine exercises recommended by the trainers:

Squat with alternating shoulder press
Romanian deadlift with row
Reverse lunge with knee raise
Sumo squat with front raise
Curtsy lunge with lateral raise
Kneeling shoulder press
Glute bridge with triceps extension (skull crusher)
Weighted crunch with leg extension
Dumbbell dead bug

All exercises are performed for 40 seconds at a time using dumbbells.

The program is designed to activate the legs, glutes, core, back, shoulders, and arms throughout the workout.

How apples can affect your blood sugar if you eat them regularly

Mie Hermansen

24. June, 2026

How apples can affect your blood sugar if you eat them regularly

Many people assume fruit should be limited when managing diabetes, but apples can easily be part of a diabetes-friendly diet. They provide fiber, vitamins and fluids that may support both fullness and blood sugar management, reports EatingWell.

Fruit does not have to be avoided

A diabetes diagnosis does not mean giving up fruit. Apples can be included as part of a healthy and varied diet.

Blood sugar naturally rises after eating

Apples contain carbohydrates, which can cause blood sugar levels to increase after a meal. This is a normal response to eating carbohydrates.

The goal is stable blood sugar levels

Diabetes management focuses on reducing large fluctuations in blood sugar rather than preventing every rise after eating.

Fiber may help moderate blood sugar responses

The fiber found in apples is not absorbed like other carbohydrates and may help support a more gradual rise in blood sugar.

Apples are linked to a lower diabetes risk

Research suggests that a higher intake of fiber-rich fruits such as apples may be associated with a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

They may also support heart health

Studies indicate that apples may be associated with better cardiovascular health outcomes, an important consideration for people with diabetes.

Whole apples appear to be the better choice

Research shows that whole apples are associated with better health outcomes than processed products such as apple juice and applesauce.

Apples may help you feel full longer

The fiber in apples adds bulk to the diet and can help increase feelings of fullness between meals.

One apple provides a meaningful amount of fiber

A medium-sized apple contains more than 4 grams of fiber, providing at least 10% of the recommended daily intake.

Protein and fat may enhance the benefits

Pairing apples with foods such as nuts, cheese, peanut butter or Greek-style yogurt may help support steadier blood sugar levels.

Apples provide important nutrients

They are a source of vitamin C, while the skin contains quercetin, an antioxidant that may help reduce inflammation.

Their water content can support hydration

Apples contain a significant amount of water, which can contribute to hydration. Dehydration may lead to higher blood sugar levels.

After years in cancer research, she no longer eats these foods

Mie Hermansen

24. June, 2026

After years in cancer research, she no longer eats these foods

Most of us rarely stop to consider how the small food choices we make each day could affect our health years down the line.

Convenience often wins when it comes to meals, but experts continue to examine how long-term dietary habits may influence disease risk. That is why new insights from cancer researchers continue to attract attention.

According to information from Cancer Research UK and comments shared by former cancer researcher Sasha Bondarenko, there are several common foods and drinks she personally chooses to limit or avoid, reports LADbible.

Her views are based on years spent studying cancer cells and the biological processes that can contribute to DNA damage over time.

Foods under scrutiny

One of the biggest concerns involves processed meat. This includes products such as bacon, sausages, ham, hot dogs and deli meats. Multiple international studies have linked high consumption of processed meats to an increased risk of colorectal cancer.

Alcohol is another item Bondarenko prefers to avoid. Health organizations around the world have long warned that alcohol consumption is associated with several forms of cancer, including breast, liver and colorectal cancer. Research suggests that the risk generally rises with increased consumption.

How food Is cooked matters

The concern is not limited to the food itself. The way food is prepared may also play a role. Heavily charred or burnt meat can produce compounds that researchers have associated with DNA damage when foods are cooked at very high temperatures.

Bondarenko also highlights heavily browned potato products, chips and burnt toast. During intense cooking, a chemical called acrylamide can form.

While animal studies have shown cancer-causing effects, Cancer Research UK notes that there is currently no clear evidence proving that acrylamide in food increases cancer risk in humans.

A long-term picture

Experts stress that cancer is a complex disease influenced by a combination of factors, including genetics, lifestyle, environmental exposures and overall health. No single food determines a person’s fate, but long-term habits can contribute to either increasing or reducing risk over time.

For that reason, many health specialists recommend focusing on balanced eating patterns rather than worrying about individual foods in isolation.

“Zombie deer disease” can remain hidden for years without signs of infection

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

24. June, 2026

“Zombie deer disease” can remain hidden for years without signs of infection

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is a fatal disease that affects deer, elk, and related animals, according to Medical Daily.

The disease is often referred to as “zombie deer disease” because infected animals in the later stages can appear emaciated, lethargic, and disoriented.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the disease has been detected in 36 U.S. states and five Canadian provinces.

There is currently neither a treatment nor a vaccine for the disease.

At the same time, the infectious agent can remain in the environment for many years once it has been introduced, according to the USGS National Wildlife Health Center.

Have any humans been infected?

No confirmed cases of CWD infection in humans have been recorded so far, according to the CDC.

Nevertheless, researchers are closely monitoring developments.

The reason is that mad cow disease previously spread from animals to humans. As a result, scientists continue to investigate whether CWD could pose a long-term risk.

Several countries are monitoring the disease. Among them, German authorities have launched studies of deer populations to track its spread.

Difficult to control

The disease has an incubation period of between one and a half and three years.

This means that an animal can be infected for a long time without showing signs of illness.

According to the USGS, the disease can have serious consequences for deer populations in areas where it becomes widespread.

Surprising discovery

New studies published in the journals Science Advances and Scientific Reports found prions, the infectious particles responsible for the disease, in the blood and bodily fluids of deer that appeared completely healthy.

The results show that infected animals can spread the disease through saliva, urine, feces, and blood, among other means, even when they do not show visible symptoms.

According to the researchers, this means that it is impossible to determine with the naked eye whether an animal is capable of transmitting the disease.

Millions could feel the impact of growing drug shortages

Mie Hermansen

24. June, 2026

Millions could feel the impact of growing drug shortages

Millions of people depend on daily medication without giving it much thought. A prescription is filled, treatment continues, and life moves on. But when essential medicines become harder to obtain, even a routine pharmacy visit can suddenly feel uncertain.

According to reporting by SWNS, pharmacy owners across the UK are warning that supply pressures are becoming increasingly difficult to manage.

Concerns are growing over the availability and cost of several commonly prescribed medicines, including statins and blood pressure treatments, reports Mirror.

Growing pressure

Community pharmacies are finding themselves caught between rising costs and patient demand. Some medications that were once inexpensive to source have reportedly seen dramatic price increases in a short period of time.

For pharmacies operating on tight margins, these fluctuations create significant challenges. In some cases, obtaining stock can mean paying far more than expected, placing additional financial strain on local healthcare providers.

Patients feel the impact

The issue is particularly worrying for people who rely on long-term medication to manage chronic conditions.

Statins, used by millions of people to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease, are among the medicines drawing attention.

While shortages do not affect every pharmacy equally, healthcare professionals warn that ongoing supply problems can create uncertainty for patients who depend on consistent treatment.

Key concerns include:

Rising medicine costs
Supply chain disruptions
Increased pressure on pharmacies

Calls for solutions

Pharmacy representatives are urging policymakers to take further action to support medicine supply chains and ensure pharmacies can continue serving patients effectively.

The UK Department of Health has stated that the vast majority of licensed medicines remain available and pointed to continued investment in domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing. However, pharmacy owners argue that securing certain medications remains a persistent challenge.

As healthcare providers navigate the situation, many patients will be hoping that supply conditions improve before shortages begin affecting access to essential treatments on a wider scale.

How salmon can affect your heart if you eat it regularly

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

24. June, 2026

How salmon can affect your heart if you eat it regularly

Salmon is often highlighted as a healthier alternative to red meat when it comes to heart health.

According to cardiologists cited by Parade, regularly eating salmon can have a positive impact on both cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular health.

Salmon is a heart-friendly source of protein

Cardiologists highlight salmon as a healthy protein source for the heart, especially when compared with red meats such as beef and pork.

Contains less saturated fat

Salmon contains relatively low levels of saturated fat, which is associated with elevated LDL cholesterol.

Rich in unsaturated fatty acids

Most of the fat found in salmon consists of unsaturated fatty acids, including the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA.

May help lower LDL cholesterol

According to cardiologists, reducing saturated fat intake can help lower LDL cholesterol levels.

Replacing less healthy protein sources benefits the heart

Replacing foods high in saturated fat with salmon can have a significant positive effect on heart health.

May reduce inflammation

Cardiologists point out that the unsaturated fats in salmon may help reduce inflammation in the body.

Linked to a lower risk of blood clots

Regular salmon consumption may help reduce the risk of thrombosis, the formation of blood clots in blood vessels or the heart.

May improve blood vessel function

Salmon has also been associated with improved blood vessel function, supporting overall circulatory health.

Fish every week

The American Heart Association recommends eating at least two servings of fish of around 100 grams each per week to support heart health.

May reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events

Following the recommendation to eat fish may lower the risk of heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, and deaths related to cardiovascular disease.

May lower total cholesterol

Research published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition indicates, according to cardiologists, that regular salmon consumption may reduce total cholesterol levels.

May increase HDL cholesterol

Salmon may also contribute to a moderate increase in HDL cholesterol, often referred to as the “good” cholesterol.

Omega-3 may lower triglycerides

An analysis of clinical trials published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews found that a healthy intake of omega-3 fatty acids may reduce triglyceride levels in the blood.

The effect requires an overall healthy diet

Cardiologists emphasize that the benefits of salmon are only achieved when it is part of a generally healthy and balanced diet.

Salmon is not a substitute for cholesterol-lowering medication

Although salmon may have a positive effect on cholesterol levels, it should not be viewed as a replacement for medical treatment.

Other healthy protein sources should also be included

Salmon should be combined with other healthy protein sources such as lean chicken, turkey, and plant-based proteins, while red meat consumption should be limited.

Olive oil is recommended for preparation

When preparing salmon at home, olive oil is recommended instead of butter to make the meal more heart-friendly.

How quickly you can see results

If salmon replaces beef or pork as the primary source of protein, cardiologists say noticeable improvements in cholesterol levels may be seen after six to twelve weeks, while some benefits may appear within the first month.

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What is a spinal tumor?

Spinal cancer often originates from other cancers

Tumors can develop in several parts of the spine

Pain can be an early sign

Treatment depends on the nature of the tumor

Some tumors only require monitoring

There are several types of spinal tumors

Persistent pain is the most common symptom

Symptoms can affect the arms and legs

Muscle weakness can make daily life more difficult

Balance may be affected

Advanced disease can affect bladder and bowel function

Other cancers can spread to the spine

Early treatment can reduce the risk of damage

The body’s repair system

Why timing matters

Common side effects

More than just flavor

Used as a beverage

The spice

Health rarely mentioned

Attention and engagement

Home workout

Several exercises in sequence

The nine exercises

Fruit does not have to be avoided

Blood sugar naturally rises after eating

The goal is stable blood sugar levels

Fiber may help moderate blood sugar responses

Apples are linked to a lower diabetes risk

They may also support heart health

Whole apples appear to be the better choice

Apples may help you feel full longer

One apple provides a meaningful amount of fiber

Protein and fat may enhance the benefits

Apples provide important nutrients

Their water content can support hydration

Foods under scrutiny

How food Is cooked matters

A long-term picture

Have any humans been infected?

Difficult to control

Surprising discovery

Growing pressure

Patients feel the impact

Calls for solutions

Salmon is a heart-friendly source of protein

Contains less saturated fat

Rich in unsaturated fatty acids

May help lower LDL cholesterol

Replacing less healthy protein sources benefits the heart

May reduce inflammation

Linked to a lower risk of blood clots

May improve blood vessel function

Fish every week

May reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events

May lower total cholesterol

May increase HDL cholesterol

Omega-3 may lower triglycerides

The effect requires an overall healthy diet

Salmon is not a substitute for cholesterol-lowering medication

Other healthy protein sources should also be included

Olive oil is recommended for preparation

How quickly you can see results

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