How hot is too hot? New weather forecasting tool can help figure that out
Released on Earth Day, the federal government's new "HeatRisk" tool can help people assess when heat goes from uncomfortable to dangerous.
Health & Safety
Oncologists' meetings with drug reps don't help cancer patients live longer
Drug company reps commonly visit doctors to talk about new medications. A team of economists wanted to know if that helps patients live longer. They found that for cancer patients, the answer is no.
Why haven't Kansas and Alabama — among other holdouts — expanded access to Medicaid?
Only 10 states have not joined the federal program that expands Medicaid to people who are still in the "coverage gap" for health care
How two good friends became sworn siblings — with the revival of an ancient ritual
Thousands of years ago, there was a ceremony to bind close friends together as sworn siblings. Could the practice be resurrected today to strengthen modern friendships? Two women did just that.
North Carolina medical marijuana sales begin at Cherokee store
Medical marijuana can now be legally purchased in North Carolina with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians opening its long-planned dispensary this weekend on tribal land. Hundreds of people celebrated Saturday's historic opening of the Great Smoky Cannabis Co. in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
A cheap drug may slow down aging. A study will determine if it works
Studies suggest people who take metformin for diabetes may be at lower risk for cancer, heart disease and dementia. Now researchers aim to test if it prevents age-related diseases in healthy people.
Matzo — Passover's bread of affliction and freedom — is a timely tradition
Bread — and the lack thereof — plays a role in many corners of the world facing a crisis, from Israel and Gaza to Ukraine to Afghanistan to Sudan.
Garden gnomes and porch swings: Lively front yards linked to more connected residents
A new study finds a neighborhood's front yards may be the window to its soul: Welcoming or whimsical features such as benches and flamingos are linked to happier, more connected neighbors.
Pharma reps have visited doctors for decades. What impact does it have on patients?
A economic research study shows that oncologists' prescribing habits change after they've been visited by pharmaceutical sales reps — and it also shows the changes do not extend patients' lives.
Video of 2 bear cubs pulled from trees prompts North Carolina wildlife investigation but no charges
The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission says staff responded to a report of people harassing bear cubs at an Asheville apartment complex on Tuesday. In the video, people are not only seen pulling cubs from a tree, but one person poses for a photo while holding one of the wild animals, then drops the cub, who runs for a nearby fence.