The morning-after pill is coming to a convenience store near you

Social media influencers and wellness gurus love pushing "quick fixes" to lower cortisol—the so-called stress hormone—but ironically, their relentless advice might be making people more anxious. Experts are calling out these oversimplified solutions, saying they often ignore the complexities of stress and can even backfire.

Editor’s Note: We're drowning in stress-reduction tips online, but instead of helping, they're adding to the pressure. This story matters because it challenges the flood of dubious wellness advice and reminds us that real stress management isn’t as simple as a viral hack—sometimes, the "cure" just makes things worse.

Health experts are warning that this year’s tick season could be particularly nasty, with CDC data showing a higher risk of tickborne illnesses like Lyme disease. They’re sharing practical advice—like checking for ticks after outdoor activities and using repellent—to help people stay safe.

Editor’s Note: Ticks aren’t just a nuisance—they can carry serious diseases that ruin summers and, in some cases, cause long-term health problems. With more people spending time outdoors post-pandemic, this warning is a timely heads-up to take precautions. Nobody wants a tick bite to turn into a months-long battle with Lyme disease.

As scorching heatwaves grip parts of the U.S., NPR’s Andrew Limbong sits down with Boston University’s Patricia Fabian to unpack how extreme heat disproportionately hits vulnerable groups—like the elderly, low-income families, and those without reliable cooling. It’s not just about discomfort; heat can be deadly, especially when access to shade, air conditioning, or medical care is limited.

Editor’s Note: Heatwaves aren’t just an inconvenience—they’re a silent crisis for people already on the edge. This story cuts through the temperature stats to show why rising mercury isn’t just a weather headline but a life-or-death inequality issue. With summers getting hotter, it’s a wake-up call for how we protect (or fail) those most at risk.

In a promising small trial, a new stem cell-based drug called zimislecel appears to have cured severe type 1 diabetes in 10 out of 12 participants, eliminating their need for insulin. However, the treatment might not be as effective for those with milder forms of the disease.

These women from Madagascar chose to be photographed wearing traditional face masks—not the medical kind, but cultural ones made from natural ingredients. It was a bold statement, reclaiming their heritage and challenging stereotypes. Their portraits aren’t just beautiful; they’re a quiet act of defiance.