Craig Cox
LATEST STORIES
PUMPING IRONY: Boomers on a Binge
Alcohol-related deaths have been rising at an alarming rate among American seniors, who may be unaware of the risks. And while some countries are taking steps to curb consumption, U.S. regulators seem perfectly comfortable with the status quo.
PUMPING IRONY: Molars and Mood
Can poor oral health lead to anxiety, depression, and other psychological disorders? Recent research provides some clues, but nothing to really worry about. Maybe.
PUMPING IRONY: Big Pharma and the Vanishing Pharmacy
Major drugstore chains are shuttering their outlets at an alarming rate, making it harder for seniors to get their prescriptions. Eli Lilly’s new direct-to-consumer drug service may make matters even worse.
PUMPING IRONY: Upon Further Review … New Questions on Aspirin Use
In another blow to conventional wisdom, recent research is challenging the long-held belief that a low-dose aspirin regimen may protect healthy seniors from heart attacks and strokes.
A Clearer View of Heart Disease
The coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan can offer a better picture of who should actually take statins. Here’s why.
PUMPING IRONY: The New Youth Pill
While the longevity industry touts an obscure generic drug as the latest antiaging panacea, even some of its disciples are counseling caution.
Why Is Colon Cancer on the Rise Among Younger Adults?
Cases of colorectal cancer are declining among those over 50, but the disease is becoming more prevalent among younger Americans. Prominent functional-medicine physician Gregory Plotnikoff discusses the trend — and offers preventive measures we can all take.
PUMPING IRONY: Broken Homes
The sudden closure of a Pennsylvania nursing home highlights the postpandemic challenges facing an increasingly troubled industry.
PUMPING IRONY: Junk Food Jeopardy
Ultraprocessed foods, which first took hold among my baby boomer compatriots, now make up nearly 60 percent of the average American diet. Some experts say our addiction to this fare is lowering our life expectancy.
PUMPING IRONY: There’s an App for That — or Is There?
Fitness trackers have long been promoted as effective tools for monitoring key health metrics, but seniors have mostly ignored them. Recent research explains why
PUMPING IRONY: The Upside of Outside
Can living amid bountiful green space improve a senior’s mental and physical health? New research — and the reemergence of ecotherapy — suggest that spending more time outdoors could make a difference.
PUMPING IRONY: Looking for Trouble in All the Wrong Places?
While Big Pharma plods along in its search for an Alzheimer’s cure, new research suggests relief for some dementia sufferers may not begin in the brain at all.
PUMPING IRONY: Dr. Chatbot Will See You Now
Artificial intelligence is insinuating itself into our shaky healthcare system despite the warnings of experts who believe it may deliver more harm than help.
PUMPING IRONY: Lift to Live
Mounting research — and the exploits of one extraordinary Irishman — suggest that it’s never too late for seniors to reap the benefits of strength training.
PUMPING IRONY: A Generation in Need of Therapy — Again
At a time when one in four American seniors are struggling with mental health issues, Medicare has expanded its coverage beyond psychologists and psychiatrists to include more accessible therapists. But will those counselors sign up to provide the services?
What Is Hypotension?
Hypotension, or low blood pressure, may pose a risk to your health. Here are some signs your blood pressure is dangerously low.
PUMPING IRONY: Too Much of a Good Thing?
Recent research suggests that the “good” cholesterol that helps seniors prevent heart attacks and strokes may also raise their risk of developing dementia.
PUMPING IRONY: Where Have All the Geriatricians Gone?
At a time when the U.S. population is aging at an unprecedented pace, the number of geriatricians trained to treat older patients is dwindling. Rebuilding that profession may require more than what our healthcare system can muster.
Why BMI Is a Flawed Metric
Body mass index (BMI) is not the way to diagnose obesity. Here’s why.
PUMPING IRONY: The Hazards of Healing
A much-delayed visit with a dermatologist offers some painful lessons about the danger of ignoring “benign” skin cancers — as well as the damage that may result from treating them.
PUMPING IRONY: The Medicare Dis-Advantage
Hospitals and medical groups across the country are severing ties with Medicare Advantage insurers, leaving seniors scrambling to find new providers that will accept their insurance.