Our Editorial Team

Our Editorial Team

Becky Upham

Contributing Health Writer

Becky began her freelance writing career covering and previewing live music shows in Asheville, North Carolina. Health and wellness have been a part of her personal and professional life for almost twenty years. She's been a race director, a recruiter for Team in Training for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, a salesperson for a major pharmaceutical company, the official Spaceman Blogger for Moogfest, the communications manager for Mission Health, a fitness instructor and a health coach. She majored in English at UNC-Chapel Hill, and she holds a Master's Degree in English Writing from Hollins...

Latest Work

FDA Approves New Extended-Release Injectable for Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder

A new extended-release form of Abilify (aripiprazole) can be given once every two months for people with bipolar I disorder and schizophrenia.

By May 1, 2023

Mounjaro Shows Potential as Next Blockbuster Obesity Drug in Late-Stage Trial

Rivaling Ozempic and Wegovy, Mounjaro (tirzepatide) may be FDA-approved to treat overweight and obesity by year’s end.

By April 28, 2023

Most Melatonin Gummies Aren’t Labeled Accurately

Melatonin gummies may contain much higher levels of melatonin than labeled, which could put children at risk.

By April 27, 2023

Could Early Treatment Help Delay or Prevent MS in Certain People?

A recent Phase 3 trial showed people with radiologically isolated syndrome (RIS) who took Aubagio were 72 percent less likely to later develop MS symptoms...

By April 26, 2023

Physical Therapy for Parkinson’s Disease: What Really Helps?

Exercise programs that address the physical changes caused by Parkinson’s can improve and even reverse some symptoms of the disease.

By April 26, 2023

What Are the Causes and Risk Factors of COPD?

Inhaling lung irritants — including cigarette smoke, air pollution, and industrial dust and fumes — can lead to COPD.

By April 25, 2023

Just 1 Sugary Drink a Day Raises Risk of Early Death in Type 2 Diabetes

Just one daily serving of drinks like soda, sweet tea, and fruit juice may raise the risk of early death for people with type 2 diabetes.

By April 25, 2023

WHO Upgrades XBB.1.16 to a ‘Variant of Interest’ as Cases Rise in the U.S.

A new COVID-19 omicron variant is driving up case counts in India, and has also been discovered in 18 U.S. states.

By April 25, 2023

New Study Finds COVID Linked With Higher Risk For Type 2 Diabetes

Being hospitalized or admitted to the ICU for COVID-19 dramatically increased the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, a new population study found.

By April 24, 2023

What Is Prurigo Nodularis? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

Prurigo nodularis (PN) is an inflammatory skin condition marked by firm, itchy, often painful bumps (nodules) on the skin. Read on for more on causes ...

By April 24, 2023

The Best and Worst Foods and Drinks for ADPKD

Diet tips to manage the progression of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease and to help keep symptoms in check.

By April 23, 2023

New Study Finds a Link Between Depression and Breast Cancer Survival

Untreated depression was associated with decreased survival among women with breast cancer, underscoring a need for better mental health care.

By April 21, 2023

FDA Okays 2nd Omicron Booster for People Ages 65+ and the Immunocompromised

People who are 65 and older or have immune issues may benefit from the extra protection of a second bivalent booster, the FDA announced.

By April 19, 2023

Natural Remedy Dos and Don’ts for Multiple Sclerosis

Some vitamins and herbal supplements may help to relieve MS symptoms, but others are ineffective and a waste of money. Learn which is which.

By April 19, 2023

The Surprising Link Between Psoriasis and High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure and psoriasis are connected. Learn why high blood pressure and skin symptoms go hand in hand, and what to do if you are affected.

By April 19, 2023

What Is Measles? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

Measles, a potentially deadly viral disease, spreads easily between people who are not vaccinated.

By April 19, 2023

Hearing Aids May Help Reduce the Risk of Dementia

Researchers say using a hearing aid may be a simple and cost-effective way to lessen the impact of hearing loss on cognition.

By April 18, 2023

Itchy Eyes and Conjunctivitis Might Be the Latest COVID-19 Symptoms

The new omicron subvariant XBB.1.16 appears to be causing red, itchy eyes, especially in infants and young children, according to early reports.

By April 17, 2023

7 Signs Your COPD Is Getting Worse

If you notice changes in the typical symptoms associated with COPD, it may be a sign of disease progression.

By April 15, 2023

Deep Breathing: A Complete Guide to the Relaxation Technique

Deep breathing is a relaxation technique that may help reduce stress and anxiety. These exercises may also help manage chronic health conditions. Learn...

By April 15, 2023

Common Painkillers Linked With Heart Failure In People With Type 2 Diabetes

Some people with diabetes may find that drugs like ibuprofen increase their risk of heart failure, a study finds.

By April 14, 2023

Shortages of Commonly Used Cancer Drugs Compromise and Complicate Care

Shortages of Pluvicto, BCG, and injectable methotrexate, cisplatin, and fluorouracil are forcing some cancer patients to take less-effective treatments...

By April 13, 2023

6 Possible Health Benefits of Deep Breathing

Deep breathing exercises can help lower stress and promote relaxation. These effects can play a positive role in the management of chronic health conditions...

By April 10, 2023

How to Plan for Pregnancy When You Have Migraines

When you have migraines, planning for a healthy pregnancy includes learning which treatments are safe for pregnant women and which lifestyle adjustments...

By April 8, 2023

How Psoriatic Arthritis Is Linked to Psoriasis

While psoriasis affects the skin and psoriatic arthritis affects the joints, these two autoimmune conditions often go hand in hand. Here’s what to know...

By April 6, 2023

How Psoriasis Affects Your Whole Body

Psoriasis affects more than your skin. The overactive immune system and inflammation throughout your body can contribute to a host of health complications...

By April 6, 2023

Childhood Trauma May Lead to Anger in Adulthood

Unresolved trauma from childhood can manifest as anger and antisocial personality traits in adulthood — but effective treatments are available.

By March 31, 2023

Eye Changes May Reveal Early Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease

Brain changes from dementia and mild cognitive impairment are reflected in changes to the retina, a new study finds.

By March 30, 2023

Loud Road Noise Linked to Increased Risk of High Blood Pressure

Noisy street sounds aren’t just irritating — they can actually raise your blood pressure and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

By March 24, 2023

Daily Step Counts in America Still Haven’t Returned to Pre-Pandemic Levels

A national study showed that the average American is taking 600 fewer steps per day compared to before the pandemic.

By March 23, 2023

15-Year Study Finds It’s Safe to Delay Treatment for Low-Risk Prostate Cancer

Survival rates over 15 years for low-risk prostate cancer were the same whether men chose active surveillance, radiation, or surgery.

By March 22, 2023

What Is Tonsillitis? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils that can cause that tissue in the back of the throat to become red, swollen, irritated, and painful. Most cases...

By March 19, 2023

Do You Know Whether You Have Dense Breasts — and What It Means?

Dense breast tissue increases the risk of breast cancer. Mammogram providers in every state must now tell patients whether they have dense breasts.

By March 15, 2023

FDA Approves Zavzpret, a New Nasal Spray to Treat Acute Migraine

The first and only approved gepant (CGRP receptor antagonist) nasal spray for acute migraine is expected to be available this summer.

By March 15, 2023

The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning and Disinfecting in a Germ-Filled World

Learn the best way to kill germs that can make you sick, from those in your kitchen and bathroom to those on your cell phone, bedding, or shoes.

By March 15, 2023

Could the Diabetes Drug Metformin Slow the Aging Process?

Biohackers and researchers alike are turning to the diabetes drug metformin for its supposed anti-aging benefits. Is the hype real?

By March 13, 2023

Symptoms and Diagnosis of COPD

Recognizing COPD symptoms is critical to early detection of the disease and successful treatment.

By March 13, 2023

Exercise Can Help Men Last Longer During Sex, Research Suggests

For men who want to last longer during sex, physical activity such as running, yoga, and pelvic floor workouts can help, according to new research.

By March 10, 2023

COVID-19 Increases Likelihood of Heartburn, Bloating in the Next Year

COVID-19 raises the risk of developing gastrointestinal disorders like acid reflux (GERD), bloating, and constipation, per a new study.

By March 9, 2023

A Statin Alternative Lowers Heart Attack Risk by 23 Percent, Drug Trial Shows

This statin alternative significantly reduces LDL cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risk, according to a major new study.

By March 8, 2023

Raw Meat and Raw Milk Diets Are Trending on TikTok, Despite Safety Risks

Enthusiasts of raw food diets are promoting uncooked meat and unpasteurized milk as healthier, but food safety experts say that’s not true — and eating...

By March 8, 2023

Older Black Men Are More Likely to Die Post-Surgery Than White Patients and Black Women

Structural racism and the long-term health effects of stress may explain the disparities in death rates between Black men, white patients, and Black women...

By March 6, 2023

Parent’s Guide to Pediatric Muscular Dystrophies

A variety of kinds of muscular dystrophies affect children, and they can vary widely in symptoms and severity. Here’s a primer for parents.

By March 6, 2023

Can Wearing an Eye Mask to Sleep Tonight Boost Your Brain Function Tomorrow?

A new study suggests that blocking out light while you slumber can improve your memory, alertness, and reaction time.

By March 3, 2023

Too Many People Are Using Neti Pots and Vaporizers Unsafely, Survey Suggests

The resident reportedly used unboiled tap water to rinse their sinuses and was exposed to deadly N. fowleri. Here’s more on safe ways to use nasal rinses...

By March 2, 2023

1 in 5 People at High Risk for Heart Disease Refuse to Take Statins

A new study found that 1 in 5 patients at high risk of heart disease refused to take statins to lower their cholesterol levels.

By March 1, 2023

Sugar Substitute Erythritol May Increase Risk for Blood Clotting and Stroke

The no-calorie sweetener erythritol, popular for the keto diet and known as Truvia, may increase the risk of blood clots, heart attack, and stroke.

By February 27, 2023

Afternoon Workouts May Yield the Most Benefits for Longevity

Exercise at any time has ample benefits, but to reduce the risk of early death, the most ideal time to exercise may be the afternoon.

By February 27, 2023

Could a 4-Day Workweek Be the Answer to Job Burnout and Stress?

Burnout and stress levels went down significantly when employees worked 20 percent fewer hours while getting paid the same amount.

By February 21, 2023

Older Diabetes Medication Linked to Lower Dementia Risk

Pioglitazone cut dementia risk in half for newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes patients with a history of stroke, according to a new study.

By February 16, 2023