Sunday, August 19, 2018

Back pain | Living drugs | Should you get that scan?

Doctors aren't very good at explaining the risks and benefits of some cancer screenings.
Lily Padula for NPR
 

Got Back Pain?  You're Probably Sitting Wrong


Back pain is epidemic in this country. And some postural experts have a theory as to why: The way we sit is hurting us. When seated, most of our backs curve in a C-shape, with our shoulders slumped forward and butts tucked under. Turns out that’s stressing out our spines, gradually leading to pain, and even ruptured discs.

People in other cultures sit differently, and have elegant and pain-free posture. Learn about how to fix yours: A simple adjustment can make a big difference.
 
Pearl Mak/NPR 

Scientists Race To Improve ‘Living Drugs’ For Cancer


Some patients are betting on an experimental cancer therapy: an infusion of cells, known as CAR-T. These cells, sometimes called "living drugs," are engineered from patients' own immune system cells, designed to zero in and attack cancer. They can have incredible -- or very disappointing -- results. And there's one catch: They can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars per patient.

Read more to learn how doctors and some daring patients are working to advance the science.
 
FS Productions/Getty Images/Blend Images
 

Should You Get That Scan? Your Doctor Might Not Be Great At Helping You Decide

Your doctor probably nags you to schedule cancer screening tests like mammograms and colonoscopies. These tests, after all, can be life-saving. But there are downsides to getting certains tests too, like lung cancer screenings, which more often than not, lead to false positives -- and further (invasive, expensive) testing. Trouble is, doctors are better at telling you why you should get tested than why you shouldn’t. Learn why doctors are stumbling in this era of over-testing.

Enjoy these and more health stories from NPR!

Your Shots editor,

Carmel Wroth
 
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