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How to recognise early signs of cancer in the tonsils and tongue

The number of cases of cancer in the tonsils and base of the tongue has increased significantly in recent years.

The disease can be linked to smoking, alcohol, and HPV, and symptoms are often discovered late, according to Netdoktor.

What is cancer in the tonsils and base of the tongue?

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This type of cancer develops in the throat around the tonsils and the base of the tongue. The disease most often forms in the mucous membranes in the area.

More men are affected

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Three out of four patients with the disease are men. This applies to both HPV-positive and HPV-negative cases.

Symptoms can be difficult to detect

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The cancer is often located deep in the tonsils or at the base of the tongue. As a result, the disease rarely causes clear local symptoms in the early stages.

Pain when swallowing can be an important sign

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Many people experience pain when swallowing or difficulty swallowing. A sensation of a lump in the throat can also be a symptom.

Swollen lymph nodes may reveal the disease

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In HPV-related cancer, the first sign is often swelling in the neck. The swelling is caused by the cancer spreading to the lymph nodes.

Sores and lumps should be examined

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If sores or lumps develop on the tonsils or base of the tongue, it is recommended to seek medical attention quickly to determine the cause.

Smoking and alcohol increase the risk

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Non-HPV-related cancer is particularly associated with smoking and heavy alcohol consumption. The risk can be reduced by avoiding both.

The HPV vaccine can help prevent the disease

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The vaccine protects against more than 96 percent of the HPV types found in HPV-positive cancer of the tonsils and base of the tongue.

Diagnosis is made using tissue samples

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Doctors examine the mouth and throat and take tissue samples to determine whether cancer is present.

Many patients also undergo PET/CT scans to determine how far the disease has spread.

Treatment can be demanding

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Patients are treated either with radiation and chemotherapy or with robotic surgery. The choice depends, among other things, on how advanced the disease is.

Radiation therapy can cause long-term side effects

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Treatment can lead to dry mouth, pain, and difficulty eating. Some patients also experience long-term problems with swallowing and speech.

Robotic surgery may reduce side effects

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Robotic surgery is used in some cases because the long-term side effects are often less severe than with radiation and chemotherapy.

The prognosis is best for HPV-related cancer

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More than 75 percent of patients with HPV-related cancer are alive after five years. For HPV-negative cancer, the figure is around 40 percent.

Sources: Netdoktor.

Scientists find link between daily vitamins and slower aging

Researchers have found signs that one simple daily routine may influence how quickly the body ages over time.

A new study from Mass General Brigham suggests that taking a daily multivitamin could be linked to slower biological aging in older adults, reports Science Daily.

The study was published in Nature Medicine and funded primarily by the National Institutes of Health.

The findings come from the large COSMOS clinical trial, which followed nearly 1,000 healthy participants with an average age of 70 over a two-year period.

Instead of focusing only on chronological age, scientists examined biological age by analyzing chemical changes in DNA linked to aging.

These measurements, often called epigenetic clocks, are used to estimate how quickly the body is aging on a cellular level.

Participants who took a daily multivitamin showed signs of slower biological aging compared with those who received a placebo.

According to the researchers, the difference was equal to roughly four fewer months of biological aging during the study period.

Looking deeper

The strongest effects were seen among participants whose biological age already appeared older than their actual age when the study began.

Researchers say the findings add to growing scientific interest in whether affordable lifestyle habits and nutritional support may help people maintain better health as they grow older.

The team also noted that more research is needed before drawing broader conclusions about disease prevention or lifespan.

What happens next

Scientists involved in the project plan to continue studying whether the observed effects remain over time and whether they may help explain previous research connected to cognition, cancer risk, and age-related health conditions.

New research links GLP-1 drugs to lower mortality among breast cancer patients

The study, published in JAMA Network Open, is based on data from nearly 8,000 breast cancer patients between 2006 and 2023, according to HealthDay.

Researchers compared patients using GLP-1 drugs with patients treated with other types of diabetes medication, including insulin and metformin.

Lower risk of death

According to the study, patients using GLP-1 medication had a lower risk of death over the following ten years.

The data also showed that the cancer was less likely to return after treatment.

Researchers do not yet know exactly why the drugs appear to have a positive effect on the body.

Possible explanations include weight loss, improved cardiovascular health, and other biological factors.

More answers still needed

Researchers are now planning new clinical trials to investigate the connection further.

These types of trials are used to determine whether the medication directly affects the disease.

GLP-1 drugs may potentially improve both survival rates and reduce the risk of recurrence in some breast cancer patients.

However, the researchers stress that the findings have not yet been conclusively proven and that more research is needed.

Sources: HealthDay and JAMA Network Open.

Gastroenterologist explains why eating fruit right after dinner may be a bad idea

Fruit is healthy and generally easy for the body to digest.

However, eating fruit immediately after a large evening meal can make digestion more difficult, according to gastroenterologist Sahil Nohria of Fortis Hospital in Jalandhar, speaking to Hindustan Times.

When the body is still busy digesting fats and carbohydrates from dinner, fruit may remain in the stomach for a longer period. This can lead to discomfort in some people.

Bloating and heaviness

According to Sahil Nohria, the sugars and fibers in fruit may begin to ferment in the gut if digestion slows down.

This can result in bloating, gas, and a heavy feeling in the stomach.

Some fruits may cause more issues than others, including apples, pears, mangoes, and watermelon, as they contain high levels of fructose.

People with sensitive stomachs or irritable bowel syndrome may be especially prone to symptoms such as stomach cramps and digestive discomfort.

Better earlier in the day

Sahil Nohria emphasizes that fruit is still healthy. The main issue is the timing of consumption.

He therefore recommends eating fruit as a snack earlier in the day rather than immediately after dinner.

At the same time, people should pay attention to how their bodies react to different types of fruit.

Sources: Hindustan Times.

This can happen to your sleep if you combine magnesium and melatonin

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Many people turn to supplements when stress, screen time or irregular routines start affecting their sleep. Research suggests that magnesium and melatonin may support sleep in different ways when used together, reports EatingWell.

Stress in the evening may affect how well you sleep

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High stress levels can make it harder for the body and mind to relax at night. According to the article, magnesium may help reduce the body’s stress response, while melatonin also supports relaxation through its role in the sleep cycle.

The body naturally produces melatonin at night

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Melatonin is a hormone released by the brain when it gets dark. Its main role is to help regulate the body’s internal clock and signal that it is time to sleep.

Phones and screens may disrupt melatonin production

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The article explains that blue light from screens can suppress the body’s natural melatonin release, which may make it more difficult to feel sleepy in the evening.

Magnesium supports several important body functions

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Magnesium is involved in hundreds of biochemical reactions in the body. It plays a role in muscle function, nervous system regulation and circadian rhythms.

Low magnesium intake has been linked to sleep problems

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Many adults do not consume enough magnesium through food alone. Research mentioned in the article connects low magnesium levels with sleep disturbances and poorer sleep quality.

The two supplements work differently in the body

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Melatonin mainly affects sleep timing, while magnesium may help the body feel physically calmer and more relaxed before bedtime.

They may help calm an overactive mind at night

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Both magnesium and melatonin influence GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps slow brain activity and promote relaxation during the evening hours.

Some studies showed faster sleep onset

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Research highlighted in the article found that certain participants fell asleep more quickly after taking magnesium and melatonin together.

Sleep quality may also improve

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Studies mentioned in the article reported improvements in sleep efficiency, total sleep time and fewer awakenings during the night among some participants.

Researchers also looked at other health effects

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One study referenced in the article found reductions in calorie intake and fat mass, while another reported improvements in blood sugar and cholesterol levels in women with PCOS.

Side effects are still possible

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Melatonin may cause grogginess, headaches or vivid dreams in some people. Magnesium supplements may lead to nausea, cramping or diarrhea, especially in higher doses.

Supplements are not a replacement for healthy habits

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Experts quoted in the article stress that sleep supplements should not replace healthy routines such as limiting caffeine, reducing screen time and maintaining consistent sleep schedules.

Senator Chuck Schumer after Trump’s posts: “He is unwell”

The United States is currently facing major debates over inflation, the economy, and the conflict involving Iran.

At the same time, Donald Trump has published numerous social media posts about politics and previous elections.

According to Komo News, citing The National News Desk, several of the posts focus on political opponents and allegations of election fraud in the 2020 presidential election.

The posts have prompted several Democratic politicians to react and raise concerns about Trump’s behavior.

Senator Chuck Schumer is among the most outspoken critics. As the Democratic leader in the Senate, he believes Trump’s conduct is causing concern at a time of significant international tensions.

The white house responds

The debate over the health of American presidents has once again become a major political issue, as critics question Trump’s behavior.

However, the White House has rejected the criticism. A spokesperson told The National News Desk that Trump continues to work with great energy and remains more active than former President Joe Biden was.

Republicans have criticized Biden’s health for several years, but Democrats have dismissed those accusations.

Criticism intensifies

Criticism of Trump intensified especially after a post about Iran last month.

Several opponents argued that his statements were dangerous during a period of international unrest.

Senator Chuck Schumer wrote on the social media platform X that Trump’s mental health is deteriorating day by day. “He is unwell. And getting worse by the day”

He believes Trump’s behavior is creating uncertainty at a time when the United States is facing major international challenges.

Sources: Komo News, The National News Desk, and X.

New study links muscle strength to longer life

It often happens gradually. Grocery bags feel heavier, getting up from the couch takes more effort, and the body no longer responds quite the same way it once did. Most people brush it off as a normal part of aging.

But researchers from the University at Buffalo now believe those small changes may reveal far more than expected.

A new study suggests muscle strength could be closely connected to both long-term health and lifespan, reports Science Daily.

Small tests, big answers

The study, published in JAMA Network Open, followed more than 5,000 women between the ages of 63 and 99 over an eight-year period.

Researchers measured participants’ grip strength and how quickly they could rise from a chair several times without assistance.

Women with greater strength showed a significantly lower risk of death during the study period.

The findings remained consistent even after researchers accounted for physical activity, fitness, inflammation, and body size.

More than just exercise

According to the researchers, muscle strength may play a much larger role in healthy aging than many people realize.

The ability to move freely and handle everyday tasks is closely linked to both independence and overall health later in life.

One of the study’s most notable findings was that even women who did not meet official exercise guidelines still appeared to benefit from having higher levels of strength.

Researchers say the results could lead to greater focus on simple strength-building activities as part of future public health advice for older adults.

Researchers find new link between eggs and Alzheimer’s

Researchers have discovered a surprising link between one everyday breakfast habit and the risk of developing Alzheimer’s later in life.

For many people, breakfast is just another rushed part of the morning routine. But scientists are increasingly paying attention to the small habits people repeat over decades, because some of them may quietly influence long-term brain health.

A new study from Loma Linda University Health in California now suggests that eating eggs regularly could be associated with a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Large study

The researchers followed nearly 40,000 adults aged 65 and older through the long-running Adventist Health Study-2.

Participants were tracked for more than 15 years, with scientists comparing eating habits to medical records linked to Alzheimer’s diagnoses.

According to the findings, people who ate eggs at least five times a week had up to a 27 percent lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s compared with those who rarely ate them.

Even participants who only consumed eggs a few times each month appeared to show a reduced risk.

Why researchers are interested

Scientists believe the explanation may be connected to several nutrients naturally found in eggs.

One of the key nutrients is choline, which plays an important role in memory and communication between brain cells.

Eggs also contain omega-3 fatty acids along with lutein and zeaxanthin, compounds that previous research has linked to better cognitive function and reduced oxidative stress in the brain.

Researchers stressed that eggs should not be viewed as a miracle solution. Instead, they say the findings highlight how long-term dietary habits may contribute to healthier brain aging over time.

These drinks may help lower high blood pressure

High blood pressure can be influenced by many aspects of daily life.

According to the health media outlet Verywell Health, dietitians recommend reducing salt intake, exercising more, and cutting back on sugary drinks.

At the same time, experts point to foods such as fish, vegetables, whole grains, and berries as beneficial for heart health.

Stress can also affect blood pressure. For that reason, activities such as meditation, yoga, and regular exercise are often recommended.

Drinks for healthy blood pressure

Some beverages are highlighted as particularly beneficial for circulation.

Green tea is one of them. According to experts, the tea may help blood vessels relax and improve blood flow.

Hibiscus tea is also mentioned. The tea contains plant compounds that, according to Verywell Health, may help lower blood pressure.

Experts also point to beetroot juice, which contains natural nitrates. These may help blood vessels widen.

The biggest surprise

The most surprising recommendation from the experts, however, was pomegranate juice.

Several American dietitians highlighted the drink as a good option for people with high blood pressure.

According to Verywell Health, the juice contains both potassium and antioxidants. These may help the body improve circulation and regulate blood pressure.

However, experts stress that these drinks cannot replace a healthy lifestyle and should only be seen as a supplement.

Sources: Verywell Health.

Many children love fruit yogurt, but not all brands are equally healthy

Flavored yogurt is often seen as a healthy choice. The packaging features fruit, and advertisements highlight calcium and vitamins.

However, the contents can resemble a dessert more than a healthy snack.

Some fruit yogurts contain more than 15 grams of sugar in a single serving. That is equal to around three sugar cubes.

For children, this can make up a large part of the recommended daily sugar intake.

Difficult to understand

Sugar is not always listed directly on the ingredient label. It may also appear under names such as glucose syrup, sucrose, or fruit concentrate.

As a result, it can be difficult for consumers to determine how much sugar a product actually contains.

According to Centrum, several products also contain flavorings, colorings, and thickeners. Although the ingredients are approved, they provide little nutritional value.

A high sugar intake can cause blood sugar levels to rise quickly and then drop again. This may lead to fatigue and cravings for more sweet foods.

According to the WHO, added sugar should account for no more than 10 percent of daily energy intake.

Better alternatives

Experts recommend that sweet yogurts should not become a regular part of the diet.

Instead, plain yogurt can be mixed with fresh fruit or a small amount of honey. This provides better control over the sugar content.

Kefir, skyr, and higher-protein yogurts are also mentioned as alternatives. The point is not that sweet yogurts should be avoided completely, but that they should be eaten less often.

Health experts are particularly warning against making sweetened fruit yogurts for children a daily habit.

Sources: Centrum and WHO.