Courtesy of: Your Rio Vista Chiropractor Dr. Joseph T. Megna

Health Alert: Six Cancers Increasingly Affecting Adults Under Age 50. New research suggests that at least six cancers—colorectal, cervical, pancreatic, prostate, kidney, and multiple myeloma—are occurring at increasing rates globally among people under age 50. Investigators attribute this rise to population-wide increases in obesity, proinflammatory dietary patterns, and physical inactivity.                                          Military Medical Research, November 2025

Diet: Fiber Supports Brain Health Too. Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid produced when gut bacteria ferment dietary fiber. In addition to supporting intestinal health, it can also help reduce inflammation that affects the brain and nervous system. In a recent animal study, rats fed a fiber-free diet showed impaired activity in the amygdala—a brain region involved in fear and emotional memory—suggesting that adequate fiber intake may play an important role in brain health.                                          Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, February 2026

Exercise: Dance Class Benefits the Brain. Brain imaging of 53 older adults with subjective cognitive decline revealed that taking part in a twelve-week dance class increased oxytocin levels and enhanced functional connectivity in the default mode network—both of which are important for cognitive health.
Innovation in Aging, November 2025

Chiropractic: Scapular Dyskinesis May Contribute to Neck Pain. Among a group of 83 office workers with chronic neck pain, researchers observed that scapular dyskinesis—abnormal positioning or movement of the shoulder blade—was associated with greater neck disability. The findings suggest that altered shoulder mechanics
may contribute to neck pain and functional limitation.                                                        BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, March 2026

Mental Attitude: Post-Seizure Brain State May Offer Critical Treatment Window. According to a recent study, the brain enters a deep sleep state after a seizure that resembles memory consolidation, inadvertently strengthening seizure-related neural pathways. Researchers suggest this post-seizure period may provide a critical window for interventions—such as neuromodulation or adaptive brain stimulation—to disrupt this reinforcement and potentially
reduce the risk of future seizures.                                                                                        Journal of Neuroscience, February 2026

Wellness/Prevention: Several Health Conditions Linked to Alzheimer’s Risk. Vanderbilt University Medical Center researchers analyzed health histories of more than 450,000 adults and found that individuals later diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease were more likely to have developed a range of mental health, neurologic, sleep-related, cardiovascular, and endocrine/metabolic conditions in the preceding decade. The findings may help researchers develop tools to identify individuals at increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease, potentially enabling earlier interventions to delay or prevent the neurodegenerative disorder.
Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy, December 2025

Quote: “We tend to live up to our expectations.” ~ Earl Nightingale

Your Rio Vista Chiropractor Dr. Joseph T. Megna

Courtesy of: Your Rio Vista Chiropractor Dr. Joseph T. Megna

Health Alert: Binge Drinking Raises Mortality Risk in Adults Over Age 50. Using data from the Canadian Community Health Survey, researchers report that binge drinking—defined as consuming five or more drinks within a few hours at least once per week—is associated with a 19% increased risk of death over the following decade among middle-aged and older adults. The authors conclude, “Targeted interventions and screening campaigns are needed to address binge drinking among older adults.”  Alcohol, March 2026

Diet: Inflammatory Diet May Promote High Blood Pressure. A diet high in processed or fried foods, red or cured meat, sweets and sugary drinks, refined carbohydrates, and excessive alcohol intake has been linked to increased
inflammation in the body. In an analysis of data from the Fasa Adult Cohort Study, researchers found that individuals with a more inflammatory dietary pattern had more than double the risk of developing hypertension over the following five years. Hypertension Research, February 2026

Exercise: Inexperienced Exercisers May Face Psychological Risks from Fitness Trackers. Nottingham Trent University researchers warn that individuals new to fitness are more likely to become dependent on fitness tracker metrics for validation and experience negative emotions when failing to meet exercise targets.
Internet Research, February 2026

Chiropractic: Manual Therapy May Improve the Body’s Internal Balance System. Proprioception is the body’s ability to sense the position and movement of its parts, contributing to coordination and balance. Because proprioceptors are concentrated in muscles, tendons, and joints, musculoskeletal injuries can disrupt their function, potentially impairing recovery and increasing the risk of secondary injuries due to altered biomechanics. An analysis of data from seven clinical trials found that the manipulative and mobilization therapies frequently used by chiropractors to restore joint movement may also help improve proprioception.
Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology, January 2026

Mental Attitude: Tinnitus Harms 1 in 5 Careers. Tinnitus is the perception of ringing, buzzing, or other sounds in the ears or head without an external sound source. The condition is estimated to affect up to 15% of adults, and
according to a recent study, nearly 1 in 5 tinnitus sufferers have reduced workhours or left jobs due to tinnitus’ effect on concentration difficulties, fatigue, and communication challenges.                                                                                                                                      Brain Sciences, February 2026

Wellness/Prevention: Vitamin D Status Linked to Bladder Cancer. An umbrella review that included eight systematic reviews found an association between vitamin D status and bladder cancer risk. Specifically, the data show that the risk of bladder cancer increases by 32% when vitamin D levels are deficient or insufficient, while optimal levels are associated with a 14% lower risk.                                                      Cancer Medicine, March 2026

Quote: “We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.” ~ Albert Einstein

Your Rio Vista Chiropractor Dr. Joseph T. Megna

Courtesy of: Your Rio Vista Chiropractor Dr. Joseph T. Megna

Health Alert: Women Face Higher Heart Risk at Lower Plaque Levels. Atherosclerosis is characterized by the hardening and narrowing of the arteries, which can lead to potentially dangerous blockages if left untreated. A recent study found that a woman’s risk of heart attack or hospitalization for chest pain begins at a lower level of arterial blockage (20% vs. 28% in men), suggesting that standard risk thresholds may underestimate heart disease danger in women and support the need for sex-specific prevention guidelines.
Circulation: Cardiovascular Imaging, February 2026

Diet: Healthier Diet Linked to Lower Colorectal Cancer Risk. A large international study that included nearly one million adults found that a diet pattern characterized by a high intake of fruit and vegetables (especially leafy greens), legumes, dairy, coffee, and tea, and lower consumption of red and processed meats and sugary drinks is associated with a lower risk of colorectal cancer.                                            American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, January 2026

Exercise: One Reason Too Much Sitting Is Unhealthy. Serum osmolality is a measure of the concentration of dissolved particles in the liquid portion of the blood, reflecting the body’s fluid and electrolyte balance. Higher serum osmolality has been associated with poorer cardiovascular outcomes. A recent study found that as sitting time increases, so does serum osmolality—possibly due to reduced hydration, greater consumption of diuretic beverages, delayed bathroom breaks, and elevated blood sugar levels from snacking. The findings point to one potential mechanism by which prolonged sitting may negatively affect cardiometabolic health.
Acta Cardiology, February 2026

Chiropractic: Cycling and Low Back Pain. Among 1,521 cyclists, researchers found that 29.2% reported experiencing low back pain within the previous year. Further analysis showed that younger riders, those with greater body mass, and mountain bikers were at higher risk.                                                                                    Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, December 2025

Mental Attitude: Cognitive Training Benefits Chronic Brain Injury Patients. Brain imaging conducted before and after a 14-week computerized cognitive training program revealed significant improvements in white matter microstructure among adults with chronic traumatic brain injury, particularly in regions associated with processing speed, attention, and working memory.                                                          Journal of Neurotrauma, January 2026

Wellness/Prevention: Clean Indoor Air Key to Reducing Adult Asthma Attacks. New research suggests that homes with air purifiers, proper airflow, no exposure to secondhand smoke, and fewer allergens—such as mold, pests, or pet dander—are associated with fewer asthma attacks, better sleep, and improved daily activity among adults with asthma.                                                                                                    Atmosphere, February 2026

Quote: “The regrets of yesterday and the fear of tomorrow can kill you.” ~ Liza Minnelli

Your Rio Vista Chiropractor Dr. Joseph T. Megna

Courtesy of: Your Rio Vista Chiropractor Dr. Joseph T. Megna

Health Alert: Artery Hardening Can Start in Childhood. Atherosclerosis is characterized by the hardening and narrowing of the arteries, which can lead to potentially dangerous blockages if left untreated. Examinations of 130 pre-adolescent children revealed that excess weight is associated with endothelial dysfunction and inflammation— key precursors to atherosclerosis. The findings add to a growing body of research on the lifelong effects that being overweight or obese early in life can have on cardiometabolic health.
International Journal of Obesity, November 2025

Diet: Carb Quality Matters. While low-carbohydrate diets are often promoted for improving health, a study involving nearly 200,000 adults found that carbohydrate quality also matters. Whole and minimally processed carbohydrate sources were associated with more favorable metabolic biomarkers—including lower triglycerides,
higher HDL cholesterol, and reduced inflammation—while refined and processed carbohydrates were linked to poorer cardiometabolic profiles.                                        Journal of the American College of Cardiology, February 2026

Exercise: Cardiorespiratory Fitness Linked to Higher Emotional Resilience. In a study involving 40 healthy young adults, researchers observed that participants with higher cardiorespiratory fitness experienced lower levels of negative emotions, such as anger and anxiety, when exposed to stress-inducing images. The findings suggest that
regular physical activity may help improve emotional regulation during stressful situations.
Acta Psychologica, April 2026

Chiropractic: Musculoskeletal Disorders Common in Office Workers. Questionnaires completed by 99 office workers revealed that 80 reported musculoskeletal pain, most commonly in the neck, lower back, and shoulders.
Further analysis identified poor workstation ergonomics and higher levels of job stress as risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders.                                            Scientific Reports, November 2025

Mental Attitude: Lifelong Learning Protects Against Alzheimer’s. A study that included more than 1,900 older adults revealed that those with the highest lifelong levels of intellectual engagement were not only 38% less likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, but of those who did, the neurodegenerative condition developed nearly five years later in life.                                                                                                            Neurology, February 2026

Wellness/Prevention: Sleep Factors May Indicate Poor Metabolic Health. Among 3,551 children and teens, researchers found that napping for more than one hour per day and snoring were each associated with an elevated risk of metabolic syndrome. The findings suggest that sleep behaviors—particularly snoring and long daytime
naps—may serve as early indicators of metabolic risk in children and adolescents.
Sleep & Breathing, February 2026

Quote: “The test of character is having the ability to meet challenges.” ~ Walter Annenberg

Your Rio Vista Chiropractor Dr. Joseph T. Megna

Courtesy of: Your Rio Vista Chiropractor Dr. Joseph T. Megna

Health Alert: Hypertensive Pregnancy Complications Carry Lasting Health Risks. It is estimated that up to 10% of pregnancies are complicated by hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, including chronic hypertension, gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and chronic hypertension with superimposed preeclampsia—all of which can increase the risk of adverse outcomes for both mother and child. Despite evidence linking these conditions to a higher risk of future cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and metabolic syndrome, postpartum monitoring is often limited and adherence to interventions aimed at reducing long-term cardiometabolic risk remains low. Addressing these gaps could help improve long-term outcomes for women affected by hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.                                                                                    Cureus, December 2025

Diet: Nutrients Linked to Healthier Brain Aging. Cognitive assessments of 72 older adults revealed that a diet high in fiber, unsaturated fats, and micronutrients—including vitamins A and E, magnesium, potassium, and carotenoids—was associated with better cognitive performance and memory. Conversely, a diet low in essential nutrients and high in refined grains was linked to poorer cognitive performance. Nutrients, August 2025

Exercise: Move More, Sit Less! Researchers from the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences report that adding just five minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per day and reducing sedentary time by 30 minutes could prevent a meaningful proportion of early deaths at the population level—potentially up to about 10% and 7%, respectively.                                                                                                                                      The Lancet, January 2026

Chiropractic: Upper Crossed Syndrome and Neck and Shoulder Pain… Upper crossed syndrome is a postural imbalance characterized by tightness in the chest and upper neck muscles and weakness in the upper back and deep neck flexors, leading to forward head posture, rounded shoulders, and associated neck and shoulder pain. A recent narrative review reported that upper crossed syndrome may contribute to roughly two-thirds of neck pain cases and up to half of shoulder pain complaints among individuals who regularly use computers. If left unaddressed through ergonomic changes, lifestyle interventions, and conservative treatment approaches (such as chiropractic care), more serious conditions may develop, including nerve impingement, thoracic outlet syndrome, and cervicogenic headaches.                                                            International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, January 2026

Mental Attitude: Moderate Social Media Use Linked to Better Teen Well-Being. Assessments completed by more than 100,000 Australian youths found that excessive social media use (more than two hours a day) and total avoidance of social media are both associated with poorer wellbeing. Meanwhile, teens with moderate use (less than two hours a day), reported higher scores with respect to happiness, life satisfaction, and emotional regulation. JAMA Pediatrics, January 2026 Wellness/Prevention: Intravenous Iron May Be More Effective for Some Women with Anemia. New research suggests that women with iron deficiency anemia related to heavy menstrual bleeding who receive a single dose of intravenous (IV) iron have a lower risk of anemia recurrence over the following three years than those taking every-other day oral iron supplements, and without the gastrointestinal side effects commonly associated with oral therapy.                                                                                                                          Blood Advances, January 2026   

Quote: “If you’re not growing, you’re dying, and I’m not ready for that.”                            ~ Mary Steenburgen

Your Rio Vista Chiropractor Dr. Joseph T. Megna

Courtesy of: Your Rio Vista Chiropractor Dr. Joseph T. Megna

Health Alert: Smog Linked to Higher Blood Pressure in Children. Smog is a type of air pollution formed when sunlight reacts with emissions from vehicles and industry, creating a harmful mixture of gases and fine particles that can impair visibility and damage human health. An analysis of data from more than 4,800 children found that greater prenatal and early-life exposure to smog—especially during the first trimester of pregnancy—was associated with higher systolic blood pressure and an increased risk of childhood hypertension.                                                                Environmental Research, March 2026

Diet: How a Ketogenic Diet Can Prevent Drug-Resistant Seizures. The ketogenic diet is a high-fat, very low carbohydrate eating plan that shifts the body’s metabolism into a state of ketosis, causing it to burn fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates. This dietary approach has long been associated with reduced seizure frequency in individuals with drug resistant epilepsy, and a recent study may help explain why. Researchers at the University of Virginia report that increased levels of the ketone body β-hydroxybutyrate, triggered by ketosis, may help calm overactive brain cells by activating the HCAR2 receptor, which is present on seizure-related neurons and brain immune cells.                                                                                                                    Annals of Neurology, November 2025

Exercise: Yoga May Have Role in Managing Common Musculoskeletal Disorders. To support recovery and reduce the risk of recurrence, chiropractors often recommend that patients with musculoskeletal disorders engage in regular physical activity. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 52 clinical trials found that yoga is an effective exercise intervention for improving mobility and quality of life in individuals with musculoskeletal disorders, suggesting that regular practice may have a place in a multimodal treatment plan for back pain, neck pain, and other common musculoskeletal conditions.                                                                                                                                    Global Advances in Integrative Medicine and Health, November 2025

Chiropractic: Workplace Environmental Exposures and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Using data from the UK Biobank study, researchers found that workers who routinely perform nontraditional shift work or are regularly exposed to toxic substances, secondhand smoke, extreme temperatures, or loud noise had a 1.54-fold higher risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.                                                                BMJ Public Health, January 2026

Mental Attitude: Strong Body Clock Linked to Lower Dementia Risk. Circadian rhythm is the body’s internal 24hour biological clock that regulates sleep–wake cycles and other physiological processes, including hormone release, metabolism, and body temperature, in response to light and darkness. In a study of more than 2,000 older adults, researchers found that a more regular circadian rhythm was associated with a 50% lower risk of dementia diagnosis over the following three years. Risk factors for circadian disruption include poor sleep, physical inactivity, cardiovascular disease, and chronic stress.                                                                                                                            The Conversation, January 2026

Wellness/Prevention: Chronic Pain Severity Linked to Falls and Frailty in Older Adults. A study involving 143 older adults found that chronic pain was associated with an increased risk of falls, frailty, sarcopenia, poorer physical performance, and worse perceived health. The findings suggest that effective strategies to manage chronic pain— including conservative approaches such as chiropractic care for certain musculoskeletal conditions—may help older adults maintain function, independence, and quality of life.                                                                                          European Journal of Medical Research, October 2025

Quote: “Nothing is improbable until it moves into past tense.” ~ George Ade

Your Rio Vista Chiropractor Dr. Joseph T. Megna

Courtesy of: Your Rio Vista Chiropractor Dr. Joseph T. Megna

Health Alert: Is Bottled Water Safe to Drink? The process of disinfecting water to prevent illnesses such as cholera and typhoid can leave behind disinfection byproducts (DBPs) when disinfectants react with organic matter. Some DBPs have been associated in research with long-term health risks, including cancer and reproductive complications. Testing of samples from ten popular bottled water brands revealed detectable DBPs in all samples but at levels well below current safety limits and generally lower than those typically found in tap water—especially in bottled water sourced from springs. Overall, the findings suggest bottled water is likely comparable in safety to tap water. However, experts note that municipal tap water is tested frequently—often multiple times per day—while bottled water products are monitored less consistently.                                                                                                                                Water Research, March 2026

Diet: Eat More Whole Foods! In a recent clinical trial, University of Bristol researchers observed that participants instructed to eat a diet that contains only unprocessed whole foods reduced their daily caloric intake by 330 calories, even though the total weight of food consumer per day increased more than 50%.                            American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, December 2025

Exercise: Pilates May Be a Good Exercise Choice for Chronic Low Back Pain Management. Patients receiving treatment for chronic low back pain are often advised to perform core-strengthening exercises as part of the rehabilitation process. A recent study involving 21 middle-aged women with chronic low back pain found that Pilates provided similar functional improvements compared with traditional core-strengthening programs. The findings suggest Pilates is a viable exercise option for addressing functional deficits associated with chronic low back pain.                                                  Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology, November 2025

Chiropractic: Musculoskeletal Disorder Burden Will Continue to Rise Another Decade. Disability-adjusted lifeyears (DALYs) are a measure of total health burden that combines years lived with disability and years of life lost to premature death from a specific disease or condition. Using data from the Global Burden of Disease study, researchers report that DALYs attributable to musculoskeletal disorders—including neck and back pain—have increased by roughly 95% since 1990 and are projected to rise another 30% by 2035.                                                                                Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, November 2025

Mental Attitude: Why the Brain Drifts After a Bad Night’s Sleep. During sleep, waves of cerebrospinal fluid move through the brain to help clear metabolic waste. A recent study suggests similar activity can occur during waking hours following insufficient sleep, which may lead to slowed reaction times, missed signals, and changes in heart rate, breathing, and pupil size that can interfere with the ability to maintain attention.                                                                                                                                      Nature Neuroscience, January 2026

Wellness/Prevention: Sleeping Posture May Elevate Risk for Glaucoma Complications. A recent experiment involving 144 patients with glaucoma found that certain sleeping positions that elevate or flex the neck may compress the jugular vein and impair drainage of aqueous humor from the eye. This can lead to higher intraocular pressure, a key risk factor for optic nerve damage and vision loss. The findings suggest that sleep positioning strategies that reduce neck flexion may benefit some individuals with glaucoma.                                                                                                                              British Journal of Ophthalmology, January 2026

Quote: “We forge the chains we wear in life.” ~ Charles Dickens

Your Rio Vista Chiropractor Dr. Joseph T. Megna

Courtesy of: Your Rio Vista Chiropractor Dr. Joseph T. Megna

Health Alert: Heart Disease and Stroke Account for a Quarter of All US Deaths. While deaths from heart disease and stroke have declined in recent years, researchers report that these conditions still account for more than a quarter of all deaths in the United States (US)—exceeding deaths from cancer and accidents combined. Health experts note that up to 80% of heart disease and stroke cases may be preventable through lifestyle measures such as not smoking, getting adequate sleep, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a nutritious diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and maintaining healthy blood glucose, cholesterol, and blood pressure readings.                                                                                                                            Circulation, January 2026

Diet: How to Reduce Trans Fats Consumption. Trans fats are a type of fat commonly found in industrially produced packaged and convenience foods and are associated with elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or “bad” cholesterol) levels and increased inflammation—both of which are linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. To reduce transfat intake, experts recommend avoiding packaged foods that contain “hydrogenated” or “partially hydrogenated” oils and, when possible, cooking from scratch using stable fats that are less likely to form harmful compounds when heated, such as olive oil, avocado oil, coconut oil, ghee, and butter.                                    The Conversation, January 2026

Exercise: Regular Exercise Can Protect the Body from Chronic Stress. Allostatic load refers to the cumulative physiological wear and tear on the body from chronic stress, typically measured using a combination of biomarkers—such as blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, inflammatory markers, and stress hormones—that reflect strain across multiple body systems. In a study that tracked more than 3,300 adults from age 31 to 46, researchers found that those who seldom or never exercised had higher allostatic load than participants who frequently met physical activity guidelines, suggesting regular exercise may help protect the body from the harmful effects of chronic stress.                                                                            Psychoneuroendocrinology, February 2026

Chiropractic: Chronic Whiplash Patients May Have Concussion Symptoms. Examinations of 15 patients with chronic whiplash-associated disorder (cWAD) revealed that all tested positive for multiple post-concussive syndrome (PCS) symptoms, including abnormalities in eye movement. This finding aligns with a growing body of evidence suggesting there may be no clear boundary between cWAD and PCS, and that individuals diagnosed with one condition may benefit from evaluation for the other to help reduce the risk of chronic symptoms.                                                                      Frontiers in Neurology, October 2025

Mental Attitude: Childhood ADHD Linked to Midlife Health Problems. An analysis of data concerning nearly 11,000 middle-aged adults revealed that those exhibiting attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) traits at age ten— especially female patients—were 14% more likely to have two or more physical health problems by age 45.                                                                                                                                            JAMA Network Open, January 2026

Wellness/Prevention: Poor Fitness and Sleep Nearly Double Heart Risks in Seniors. Using data from the UK Biobank study, researchers found that a low daily step count (fewer than 7,500 steps) combined with sleeping fewer than 6.5 hours per night at age 62 was associated with an 84% higher risk of major adverse cardiovascular events—such as heart attack or stroke—during the following eight years.                                              EClinicalMedicine, January 2026

Quote: “Take a simple idea and take it seriously.” ~ Charlie Munger

Your Rio Vista Chiropractor Dr. Joseph T. Megna

Courtesy of: Your Rio Vista Chiropractor Dr. Joseph T. Megna

Health Alert: Diet Can Influence Prenatal Depression Risk. An analysis of data from the Maternal and Developmental Risks from Environmental and Social Stressors cohort found that a diet high in solid fats, refined grains, and cheese was associated with 59% higher odds of depression during the third trimester, compared with an eating pattern rich in fruits, vegetables, and liquid oils.                                                              Nutrition, January 2026

Diet: Rare Gut Disorder Can Cause Alcohol Intoxication without Drinking. Auto-brewery syndrome is a rare condition in which a person may experience symptoms of intoxication despite not consuming alcohol. The disorder is thought to result from an imbalance in the gut microbiome—most often an overgrowth of certain yeasts—that can ferment carbohydrates into ethanol. Although fewer than 100 cases have been documented, the condition highlights the importance of maintaining gut health, as microbial imbalances can contribute to a range of health concerns, including rare disorders such as auto-brewery syndrome.                                                                          Nature Microbiology, January 2026

Exercise: When Can Kids Safely Start Running with Mom and Dad? Running is a popular form of exercise among adults, leaving many parents wondering when their children can safely join them. Current guidelines recommend that children under age seven avoid structured running and instead engage in free play and short, play-based running activities. From ages seven to nine, running should generally be limited to less than 30 minutes a few times per week. During preadolescence, runs of up to 40 minutes as many as five times per week may be reasonable, though children should also participate in a variety of other sports. Once adolescence begins, teens can gradually increase running time and distance based on interest, comfort, and physical readiness. The Conversation, January 2026

Chiropractic: Lifestyle Risk Factors for Chronic Low Back Pain. Using data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, researchers report the following lifestyle factors are associated with an elevated risk of chronic low back pain: prolonged sitting for more than six hours a day; physical inactivity; elevated stress; smoking; and unhealthy diet, especially low protein intake.                                        Nursing & Health Sciences, December 2025

Mental Attitude: New Concussion Guidance Urges “If in Doubt, Sit Them Out.” Because early recognition and immediate removal from play can significantly shorten recovery time for young athletes with a mild traumatic brain injury, coaches and parents are advised to be cautious and sit a young athlete if a concussion is suspected. Health experts also remind parents that concussions are not limited to football and can occur in a wide range of sports—including soccer, hockey, cheerleading, and volleyball—with female athletes at greater risk than males.                                                                Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, January 2026

Wellness/Prevention: Steps to Help Slow or Halt Chronic Kidney Disease. It is estimated that about one-in-seven adults have chronic kidney disease, though the condition often has no obvious symptoms until its later stages. Routine blood tests can frequently detect early-stage kidney disease, highlighting the importance of annual wellness visits with a healthcare provider. Individuals at risk may be able to slow—and in some cases halt—disease progression by adopting healthy lifestyle habits such as nutritious eating, regular physical activity, stress management, and avoiding tobacco and excess alcohol.                                                                                                                National Institutes of Health, January 2026

Quote: “A quiet mind cureth all.” ~ Robert Burton

Your Rio Vista Chiropractor Dr. Joseph T. Megna

Courtesy of: Your Rio Vista Chiropractor Dr. Joseph T. Megna

Health Alert: Metabolic Factors May Hint at Sleep Apnea Risk. Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, researchers found that individuals with central obesity and unhealthy blood lipid profiles were 27%
more likely to have obstructive sleep apnea compared with metabolically healthier participants. The authors suggest that screening for these cardiometabolic factors during routine visits may help clinicians identify individuals at higher risk of sleep apnea. European Journal of Medical Research, December 2025

Diet: Diet May Influence Skin Cancer Risk. While ultraviolet (UV) exposure is most commonly associated with malignant melanoma risk, a recent narrative review found evidence that adherence to Mediterranean and Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) dietary patterns, higher intake of anti-inflammatory foods, and coffee consumption are linked to a lower risk of melanoma. In contrast, Western dietary patterns and alcohol consumption may increase skin cancer risk.                                Cureus, December 2025

Exercise: Lifelong Exercise Lowers Metabolic Syndrome Risk. Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions— including central obesity, high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, and elevated blood sugar—that occur together and increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Analysis of data from 159 participants in a long-term cohort study revealed that lifelong exercisers were four times less likely to have metabolic syndrome at age 61 than their sedentary peers. Importantly, inactive adults who became physically active during midlife—particularly those who
incorporated resistance training—were able to cut their risk of future metabolic syndrome roughly in half.
Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, November 2025

Chiropractic: Chiropractic Patients Less Likely to Experience Longterm Opioid Use. A systematic review and metaanalysis of two randomized clinical trials and 18 cohort studies found that patients receiving chiropractic care for spinal
pain were 73% less likely to become long-term opioid users, and the likelihood of later opioid prescription was even lower among those who initiated chiropractic treatment within 30 days of spinal pain onset.                                                                                            Pain Reports, December 2025

Mental Attitude: Mitochondria May Link Psychological Stress to Poor Brain and Mental Health. Mitochondria are specialized structures within cells that generate energy by converting nutrients into ATP, the molecule that powers most cellular processes. In a recent study, researchers observed that psychological stress can impair
mitochondrial function, disrupting energy metabolism, increasing inflammation, and altering brain signaling—changes that have been linked to conditions such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, Alzheimer’s disease, and other neurological disorders. These findings may help explain how engaging in regular physical activity can reduce mental health symptoms.                                                                                                    Current Directions in Psychological Science, December 2025

Wellness/Prevention: Two Factors Linked to Mortality Risk After Age 50. Among 5,400 middle-aged and older adults, researchers found that those with abdominal obesity and low muscle mass—a combination known as sarcopenic
obesity—had an 83% higher risk of death over the following decade compared with participants who had neither condition. The findings suggest that identifying and enrolling such individuals in targeted dietary and fitness interventions earlier in life may help improve long-term survival.                                                                                              Aging Clinical and Experimental Research, November 2025

Quote: “To be able to look back upon one’s past life with satisfaction is to live twice.” ~ John Dalberg-Acton

Your Rio Vista Chiropractor Dr. Joseph T. Megna