Teens turn to weight loss drugs in fight against childhood obesity
Roughly 8 million American teens are living with obesity - that's one in five. For many, their weight has become a painful physical and emotional burden, isolating them from their peers as they struggle to slim down. But now there is another option: weight-loss drugs. Reuters reporters spent more than a year closely following four teenagers who joined a small but fast-growing cohort choosing to take this medication. This video contains content some people may find distressing. Lauren Roback reports.
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Daily Mail
44 minutes ago
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE I died after giving birth...The vision I had before doctors saved me shook my faith in the afterlife
Samantha had an uneventful pregnancy and delivery eight months ago, so it shocked everyone when she had a life-threatening complication four weeks later. In October 2024, a month after welcoming her baby, Zuma, she began to bleed profusely, eventually losing four liters of blood, almost everything in her body. As doctors rushed to save her life, her eyes closed, and everything faded to black. She could feel herself dying. 'It was silent and dark, and I was just simply at peace,' she said. 'I didn't feel anything, and in my mind, I knew that I was dying, but I wasn't scared. It felt like I was just going to sleep.' In that moment, she didn't see the tunnel of light or deceased loved ones she was expecting, but she felt an immense peace take over. Doctors found that Samantha had a pseudoaneurysm – a collection of blood outside of a blood vessel, which, given the proximity to her C-section, was considered a delayed postpartum hemorrhage - or excessive bleeding after birth. Samantha spent a week in the ICU following the emergency, missing some of the early days of her daughter's life as she slowly recovered from the ordeal. 'Once I was aware enough to realize that I was in the ICU, and that my daughter wasn't with me, it was so sad,' she said: 'She was only four weeks old and we both needed each other – we were still in the new mommy/baby phase and we were bonding. I just wanted to see her and hold her.' Samantha's pregnancy and most of her labor had gone smoothly, but an emergency C-section was needed when her baby's heart rate dropped. Although she experienced minor bleeding after the surgery, she recovered well. However, four weeks later — the morning after she and her husband marked the anniversary of their first date — she woke up in a terrifying condition. She said: 'I woke up at 5am to a wet, gushing feeling. I looked down and was absolutely covered in blood. My shorts and legs were soaked, and the blood had also soaked through my sheets, mattress topper, and mattress. 'Because I had already hemorrhaged in the hospital, I knew what was happening. This time was just so much worse.' At the hospital, doctors rushed her into surgery and administered multiple blood transfusions while she fell in and out of consciousness. 'Apparently, at some point, the bleeding got worse and I began to crash,' she said. 'My pulse dropped down to 52, my hemoglobin level dropped to a three, a crash cart was brought out, and I just knew that I was dying. 'In an awake state during this, I shouted out to my husband that I loved him more than anything and to take care of our new baby.' That was the moment she felt her life slipping away. While Samantha was unconscious, doctors rushed her into surgery. They found a blockage and weakened blood vessel (an aneurysm) in her right uterine artery, which was causing the bleeding. To stop it, they performed a procedure called a Bilateral Uterine Artery Embolisation — where the blood supply to the uterus is deliberately reduced — using an absorbable sponge to block the artery, like a temporary cork. A surgeon was kept on standby in case an emergency hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) was needed, something Samantha and her husband, Louie, hoped to avoid to preserve their chance of having more children. The four-hour surgery worked, but Samantha spent a week in intensive care, missing some of her baby's early days as she recovered. 'Once I was aware enough to realize that I was in the ICU, and that my daughter wasn't with me, it was so sad,' she added. 'I kept asking my husband to bring her to see me, but we decided together that she shouldn't be coming to the ICU around all those germs. Coming home was the best feeling ever.' Samantha described the lasting trauma she experienced after the ordeal, saying she struggled with severe PTSD. For months, she barely ate or slept, was plagued by nightmares, and felt anxious about being too far from the hospital in case she started bleeding again. She cried daily, suffered frequent panic and anxiety attacks, and constantly checked for signs of bleeding, sometimes even feeling phantom sensations. In the months that followed, she underwent several scans to ensure no new aneurysms had developed, and after six months, her blood count finally returned to normal. Still, the experience left her fearful about the risks of future pregnancies and whether something similar could happen again. 'I want more babies, and because my case was so rare, I don't really have answers,' she said. 'Could this happen to me again? Yes. Could this happen during a future pregnancy? Yes. Was this aneurysm brought on because of my pregnancy? Nobody knows.' A hemorrhage is relatively rare, affecting 0.2 percent to 2.5 percent of postpartum women. After all she has been through, the artist has a whole new appreciation for life that she is taking with her into the future. 'I know it is so cliché, but this gave me a new perspective on life. I feel like I am a lot more chill, and things really don't bother me as much, because I know what could have been,' she said. 'So what if I'm stuck in traffic or if my phone dies – I'm alive!'
Medical News Today
an hour ago
- Medical News Today
Smoking and GERD: Effects, link, and more
Smoking can increase the risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and may increase the frequency and severity of symptoms. Quitting smoking may help to reduce GERD symptoms. Smoking tobacco or e-cigarettes will likely increase acid reflux, stomach acid production, and coughing, which can all contribute to the development of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). To reduce GERD symptoms, a healthcare professional may recommend quitting smoking. Smoking may increase the frequency of GERD symptoms. A 2025 study associated smoking e-cigarettes with a greater number of acidic refluxes than in non-smoking participants. Smoking may also worsen GERD symptoms. A 2024 study of 403 university students found that those who smoked tobacco or vaped had higher GERD symptom scores than non-smokers. Increased frequency of vaping linked to an increase in GERD symptoms. The study found that newer smokers experienced more severe symptoms than those who had been smoking for longer. This may be due to increased sensitivity to nicotine in new or light smokers, although further research is necessary to confirm findings. » Learn more:Vaping vs. smoking Smoking, including inhaling secondhand smoke, can weaken the LES. The LES is a muscle that sits between the esophagus and the stomach. The esophagus is a tube running from the throat to the stomach that transports food and liquids. The LES opens to allow food and liquids to pass from the esophagus to the stomach. It stays closed to prevent stomach contents traveling back up the esophagus. Weakening of the LES can lead to GERD. Smoking increases the amount of acid the stomach produces, which, in addition to the weakening of the LES, increases the risk of damage to the esophagus. According to a 2025 study, vaping may increase the risk of developing GERD. The study included 90 participants, and found vaping linked to increased acid reflux and may play a part in the development of GERD. This may be due to the effects of e-cigarettes on the LES. Other tobacco products may also increase the risk of GERD due to their nicotine content. Nicotine relaxes the LES, which increases reflux due to stomach acid flowing back up the esophagus. Quitting smoking may help to improve and reduce GERD symptoms. A 2024 study found that students who quit smoking and vaping had lower GERD symptom scores than current smokers. Quitting smoking may allow the LES to recover and regain its usual function, which can help reduce the severity and frequency of acid reflux. An older 2016 study tested the effects of smoking cessation on GERD. After one year, 141 participants achieved smoking cessation and 50 did not. The group of participants who quit smoking had 43.9% improvement in GERD symptoms and significantly less frequent symptoms, according to a self-report questionnaire. The group who did not quit only experienced 18.2% improvement. If people want to quit smoking or vaping, they can speak with a healthcare professional who can help them follow a quit plan. People can also find advice and support online through resources such as » Learn moreFive ways to quit smoking The following lifestyle changes can help improve and reduce GERD symptoms: maintain or achieve a moderate weight avoid foods and drinks that trigger or worsen GERD symptoms, which may include: spicy, acidic, or high fat foods caffeine alcohol use extra pillows or a soft wedge to raise the head and upper body by 6 to 8 inches when sleeping avoid eating at least 3 hours before lying down Managing other health issues, including asthma and diabetes, may also help reduce GERD symptoms. Exposure to secondhand smoke can be harmful for people with GERD, as it can have similar effects to smoking. Inhaling secondhand smoke can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter, which may worsen acid reflux. Nicotine, a key component in tobacco products, relaxes the LES and can lead to acid reflux. Research suggests exposure to nicotine from any source may harm the digestive system and increase the frequency and severity of GERD symptoms. Some smoking cessation products, such as nicotine replacement therapy, may interact with some GERD medications. Nicotine may interact with cimetidine (Tagamet). Cimetidine is an antacid that reduces stomach acid, which may help manage GERD symptoms. It may increase nicotine levels in the blood, which may lead to toxicity. It is important to speak with a doctor before taking any GERD medications alongside smoking cessation products. Smoking is a risk factor for GERD, largely due to its effects on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Smoking weakens the LES, which allows stomach acid to flow back up the esophagus. Vaping, smoking other substances such as cannabis, consuming other tobacco products, and exposure to secondhand smoke may also increase the risk of GERD. Smoking may also increase the frequency and severity of GERD symptoms. Quitting smoking can help the LES to recover, which may reduce and improve GERD symptoms. Acid Reflux / GERD Smoking / Quit Smoking Preventive Medicine Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.
The Independent
an hour ago
- The Independent
Travel experts reveal the truth about nine cruise ship myths, from claustrophobia to norovirus outbreaks
Does the idea of a cruise not float your boat because of all the tales of passenger woe floating around the blogosphere? We spoke to several cruise experts and asked them to weigh in on some of the more prevalent myths about cruises that may be putting you off. Perhaps you thought seasickness was guaranteed, that ships would be claustrophobic or that in terms of hygiene, they're tantamount to floating Petri dishes. Here, our cruise gurus, including one who's been on more than 90 sailings, dispel all these notions and more. Read on to hear why a cruise vacation is far more likely to be pleasantly plain sailing than a tsunami of traumatic experiences. Myth: There's a danger of accidentally falling overboard Reality:"Nobody accidentally falls overboard," says travel journalist and cruise expert David Yeskel, aka The Cruise Guru. "That's because it's too difficult due to the height of railings. The rare cases of overboard guests all revolve around suicide or drunks taking risks on wet railings." Myth: Cruise ships are floating Petri dishes and norovirus outbreaks are rampant Reality:"We hear about norovirus on cruise ships because they're required to report norovirus cases that exceed a threshold of three percent of passengers and crew, which is actually rare," says David Yeskel. "Land-based institutional facilities — schools, hospitals, nursing homes — where norovirus occurs much more often aren't subject to those same reporting requirements." Donald Bucolo, from who's been on over 90 cruises, echoed these thoughts. He told The Independent: "This myth drives me crazy because cruise ships have some of the most rigorous health protocols in the travel industry. "The occasional norovirus outbreak gets massive media coverage, but these incidents are relatively rare and affect a small percentage of passengers. "I've been on 90-plus cruises and have never experienced a significant illness outbreak. The hand sanitizer stations, enhanced cleaning protocols, and health monitoring make ships incredibly safe environments." Myth: You're going to get seasick Reality:"Seasickness on large cruise ships is actually rare," says David, "because they utilize stabilizers to ensure a smooth ride. Seasickness can occur, however, during rough weather, which is when motion-sickness drugs are provided to guests to ward off seasickness." Myth: You'll feel trapped on a cruise ship — they're claustrophobic Reality: "People imagine being stuck on a 'boat' with nowhere to go," says Donald Bucolo, "but cruise ships offer incredible freedom and variety. "You can find quiet spaces to read, bustling social areas to meet people, outdoor decks to enjoy ocean views, or cozy indoor lounges. "The ship becomes your home base while you wake up in different destinations, so those days at sea are a great way to recharge between ports and make use of all the onboard activities and amenities." Myth: Cruises have poor food options Reality:"Because cruises are often associated with large-scale travel, people mistakenly assume they'll have to settle for low-quality food," says Jeremy Clubb, the founder of Rainforest Cruises. "But on small luxury vessels, fine dining is part of the daily experience, with some ships featuring multi-course meals crafted by world-renowned chefs, who sometimes even host exclusive culinary events aboard." Myth: Cruises are boring Reality:"Today's ships have zip lines, rock-climbing walls, Broadway shows, various trivia contests, cruisers competitions, dance parties, and even go-kart tracks," says Donald. "The challenge isn't finding something to do — it's choosing between dozens of options happening simultaneously. "Even the 'quiet' cruise lines offer cooking classes, enrichment lectures, and cultural experiences that cater to travelers seeking more sophisticated activities and events." Myth: Cruises are only for retirees or party-seeking 20-somethings Reality: "There is something for everyone," Joel Wesseldyke, co-owner of JJ Travel Associates, tells The Independent. "Expedition cruises for those who want to experience nature up close, river cruises for travelers who want to be immersed in a destination and experience history from a different perspective, and ocean cruise itineraries that can include beaches and fun in the sun or focus on history and culture. "There is a cruise appropriate for every age, interest, and desired experience." Myth: You don't really experience the destinations — cruises aren't 'real travel' Reality:"Non-cruisers love to say you only get a superficial, tourist-trap experience in each port," says Donald, "but that's completely outdated thinking. "We've had some of our most authentic travel experiences through cruising, such as enjoying the sunset from a rooftop bar in Nice, France, or off-roading in Aruba with a local guide. "The beauty is that cruising gives you a taste of multiple destinations, helping you decide where you want to return for a more extended stay." Colleen McDaniel, Editor-in-Chief of Cruise Critic, agrees. She told The Independent: "While a cruise will never replace a week-long stay in one destination, there's something to be said for the immersiveness and amount of ground you're able to cover on a cruise. "I've taken a hot air balloon ride over Egypt, have had farm-to-table meals prepared for me by local farmers in Europe, have traversed the most hard-to-reach-by-land areas of Alaska — all by cruise. It's true: You're not in one specific port for an extended period of time, but that's because you're able to explore wide regions all in one trip." Sean Atton, Global Cruise Manager at custom tour operator Audley Travel, adds: "There are amazing cruises available for clients who want to focus their maritime exploration on just one or two countries. We sell an itinerary that features a 16-day cruise that calls at nine ports in New Zealand, across both the North and South Islands, with clients visiting diverse places from the Bay of Islands in the north of the North Island and the fjords of the South Island, to city sights of Auckland, Christchurch and Dunedin. "The clients see highlights of both islands, with the journey between places a key part of the experience of their trip." "Last-minute flights and accommodation can often make a last-minute cruise more expensive. Usually, last-minute deals are for unsold cabins, sometimes the least appealing, with the best options sold out in advance."
