Fried foods in excess are widely considered a contributor to obesity. But an individual’s genetic makeup may impact how staples like French fries and chicken wings add to weight gain.

About one out of 10 teenagers uses illegal drugs or pharmaceutical medications for nonmedical purposes. And health professionals aren't sure what the solution to this public health problem is.

To boost heart health, doctors have urged us for decades to eat fewer fats found in meat and dairy and more of the fats found in fish. A new study now seems to change that commonly given advice.

One test for prostate cancer — called PSA screening — has been controversial since it was first introduced. While the debate on prostate cancer screening continues, a recent review offers some insight on making the decision to get screened.

While women and doctors do their best to avoid complications during pregnancy, they can still occur, and some of these complications are more common than others. Even the rare ones — like cardiac arrest — can be serious.

Patients with arthritis in both knees sometimes choose to undergo a double replacement surgery on the same day. A recent study looked at whether this operation is safe for rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Americans with diabetes often use sugar alternatives to manage their health. Promising animal research may eventually offer a new sweetener option that could help reduce blood sugar and weight.

With a constantly growing battery of medical tests available, it’s important for doctors to emphasize necessary care. The need is perhaps more pointed with vulnerable patient groups like children.

People with eating disorders often have social difficulties, as well. One hormone may improve how people with anorexia perceive the world around them. 

Doctors need to understand their patients' complete health history in order to treat them correctly. In patients with life-threatening conditions, even mental health history could be essential to ensuring a positive outcome.