Just four minutes of daily strength exercises can dramatically improve mobility, balance and leg strength in older adults, per new research from the Penn State College of Medicine.

Standard public health guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. However, the study suggests that fewer than one in five older adults meet the recommended muscle-strengthening guidelines.

The research team designed a home-based program called Functional Activity Strength Training, or FAST-2. They evaluated 97 sedentary participants 65 and older, with an average age of 74.

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Before entering the study, these individuals were averaging just 18 minutes of total physical activity each week.

The older adults were randomly split into two groups, with one group performing the daily exercise routine and the other serving as a control group that received no intervention, according to the study's press release.

Participants performed four basic movements for 30 seconds each, separated by 30-second rest intervals. The entire routine lasted exactly four minutes. The circuit consisted of push-ups, chair stands, two-arm resistance-band rows and stair stepping.

To keep the routine accessible, researchers provided written explanations and simple modifications. For example, participants could perform push-ups against a kitchen counter or wall, or use their hands on their knees for support during chair stands.

Participants were also given four elastic resistance bands and an adjustable step platform.

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"Exercise is actually really complicated, because you have to decide how many repetitions, how far, how many sets, how much rest and how many times per week," co-author Smita Dandekar, associate professor of pediatrics at Penn State College of Medicine, said in the press release.

"It's hard work ... so if we can make it short, we’re part [of the] way there."

As the participants grew stronger, they were encouraged to progress to higher levels of difficulty, such as transitioning away from modifications or increasing the height of the stepper.

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After 12 weeks, the results suggested that a tiny dose of regular exercise could yield noticeable physical benefits. In a 30-second chair-stand test, the exercise group performed an average of 4.2 more repetitions than the control group.

The adults doing the exercises also shaved 2.3 seconds off their time during a test measuring how they could stand up and sit down five times consecutively. Furthermore, they extended their one-legged balance time by an average of 3.6 seconds.

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The researchers emphasized that these specific measurements are critical medical indicators of an older adult's future health.

"These indicators predict your future ability to go into a nursing home, your future likelihood of falling and of developing difficulty walking," noted lead author Christopher Sciamanna, professor of medicine and of public health at Penn State College of Medicine, in the press release.

"They give you a sense of whether or not you're going to be able to be active in the future."

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While traditional home exercise programs generally see low engagement, the participants in this study successfully completed their workouts on 81% of the tracked days, according to the researchers.

The study had several noted limitations. As it tracked a relatively small sample size of fewer than 100 individuals over a brief 12-week time frame, it is unknown whether these mobility gains can be sustained long-term.

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Additionally, the researchers did not specify the exact dropout rates or detail how the routine might affect seniors who already relied on assistive devices like walkers or canes.

Because the final trial results reflected a specific group of participants who met the entry criteria, further investigation is required to determine whether the short routine can safely benefit older adults facing more severe physical limitations or cognitive decline.

The study was published in the journal PLOS One.

Jill Smokler, founder of Scary Mommy, has died at age 48 after a battle with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer.

The popular "mommy blogger" had been fighting the disease for the past two years, according to an announcement posted on ScaryMommy.com on Monday.

The stay-at-home mother of three launched the blog in 2008 as a place to share the "joys and pitfalls" of parenting, according to the article.

As Scary Mommy expanded from a personal blog into a major parenting brand, Smokler built a following with her honest, often self-deprecating take on motherhood. She went on to speak at blogging conferences, author bestselling books, appear on national television programs and earn three Webby Awards, her biography states.

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"Jill spent her life telling the truth about motherhood — that it could be wonderful and impossible in the very same breath — and in doing so, she gave millions of women permission to stop pretending and feel a little less alone," her family shared in a statement following her passing.

"She was funny, fearless, generous and entirely herself. More than anything she built, Jill was proudest of her three children, Lily, Ben and Evan. We are heartbroken to lose her, and endlessly proud of the mark she left on the world."

Smokler's first sign of the disease was in April 2024, when she experienced a sudden seizure. She then underwent surgery to remove a brain tumor, after which she didn't recognize her own children, she previously shared with Today.

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"I am definitely grateful that I don’t remember the looks on their faces when I didn’t recognize them," she said. "That must have been gutting."

Smokler was diagnosed with glioblastoma, the most common malignant primary brain tumor in adults and one of the deadliest forms of brain cancer. There is currently no cure.

Following surgery, the blogger underwent radiation and chemotherapy, during which she was open about her treatment side effects, including fatigue and hair loss. Additional surgeries and clinical trials followed, according to previous interviews.

"Thank you, Jill, for everything. May you rest in peace," the Scary Mommy post concluded.

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About 13.9% of all brain tumors are glioblastomas, according to the American Brain Tumor Association. More than 12,000 new cases are diagnosed in the U.S. each year.

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Median survival is approximately 12 to 18 months after diagnosis, even with treatment. Only about 5% to 7% of patients survive five years after diagnosis, data shows.

Common food preservatives may contribute to higher risks of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease, according to a large French study.

Researchers analyzed data from 112,395 adults averaging 42 years of age, assessing their detailed dietary intake with an average follow-up of nearly eight years.

Among the participants, 5,544 developed hypertension during the follow-up period, and 2,450 experienced cardiovascular disease events.

'ADDICTIVE' ULTRA-PROCESSED FOODS LINKED TO SPIKE IN CHRONIC DISEASE, RESEARCHERS WARN

Higher consumption of total non-antioxidant preservatives was associated with a 29% greater risk of hypertension and a 16% higher risk of cardiovascular disease.

Higher consumption of total antioxidant preservatives was linked to a 22% spike in hypertension risk.

Out of the 17 preservative additives consumed by at least 10% of participants, eight in particular were associated with higher rates of hypertension, including the following.

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Only one of the preservatives – ascorbic acid, which is the food additive form of vitamin C – was significantly associated with higher cardiovascular disease risk.

The finding does not mean that dietary vitamin C itself causes cardiovascular disease, the researchers noted. The study examined ascorbic acid in the form used as a food additive in processed foods, not vitamin C from fruits, vegetables or supplements.

The findings were published in the European Heart Journal.

"This is a very important study that puts together what we already know – that preservatives of all kinds raise blood pressure and contribute directly to heart disease and stroke over eight years," Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News senior medical analyst, told Fox News Digital.

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"Whereas potassium itself can lower blood pressure, the additive potassium sorbate has previously been found to be associated with hypertension in a large study in the European Heart Journal," the doctor, who was not involved in the study, told Fox News Digital. "Potassium metabisulphite was also found to raise pressure in the same study."

The same was found for sodium nitrite in the new study, Siegel noted, with 73% of participants consuming it regularly – "mostly in processed foods like hot dogs, ham, bacon and deli meats."

"This has been found in previous research for many years," he added.

Siegel also discussed the 22% increased risk linked to ascorbic acid. "I am dubious about this association, as it has not generally been found before, but perhaps the risk is when it is used as a chemical preservative."

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"For all the sodium additives, this is expected, but surprising with extracts of rosemary and citric acid – the key to both of these ingredients is when they are used as preservatives (chemicals)," he added.

As this was an observational study, it could not prove that the additives caused the health conditions.

Also, the participants who volunteered for the study were generally healthier, more educated and more often female than the general French population, the researchers noted.

There was also the chance that hypertension was underdiagnosed in some participants.

While the researchers estimated people's dietary intake as accurately as possible, there was a chance that some consumption was inaccurately reported.

The authors emphasized that these findings need to be confirmed in further research of other populations.

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If the results are replicated in future research, some food preservatives may face additional safety reviews focused on their effects on the cardiovascular system, the researchers suggested.

"The take-home is to use natural ingredients as much as possible, and especially beware of sodium chemical preservatives when it comes to risk of heart disease and stroke from associated hypertension," Siegel concluded.

Feeling older than your actual age could be a sign that you're not getting enough quality sleep, according to new research.

A study led by researchers at the National Sleep Foundation and published in the journal Sleep found that adults who felt older than their chronological age were more likely to report insomnia symptoms, irregular sleep patterns and daytime fatigue.

The study involved more than 3,100 adults, who were asked a simple question: "How old do you feel?"

HERE'S WHY 90% OF AMERICANS DON'T SLEEP THROUGH THE NIGHT, ACCORDING TO EXPERT

Researchers then compared participants' answers with measures of sleep quality, sleep consistency and daytime functioning.

People who felt older than their actual age consistently reported poorer sleep and greater sleep-related impairment than those who felt younger or closer to their chronological age.

Researchers also found that people who felt older than their age were more likely to report poorer physical health.

Jonathan Alpert, a New York-based psychotherapist and author who was not involved in the research, told Fox News Digital that the findings align with what he frequently sees in his practice.

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"I've worked with many people who come in saying they feel older than they are. They're exhausted, mentally foggy, less patient, less motivated and generally not functioning at their best," Alpert said. "Poor sleep is often a major part of the picture."

Inadequate sleep can make everyday responsibilities feel more difficult and leave people struggling to concentrate, manage stress and maintain their usual energy levels, Alpert said.

Over time, he said, those challenges can contribute to a feeling of premature aging.

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"Many people assume feeling older is just an inevitable part of aging, but sometimes the issue is simply that they're chronically sleep-deprived," Alpert said.

For that reason, he suggested looking at sleep habits before assuming fatigue and low energy are simply consequences of getting older.

For now, Alpert said the findings offer a reminder that fatigue should not automatically be blamed on getting older.

While the findings were notable, there are several limitations to consider.

The study relied on self-reported survey responses, meaning participants provided information about both their perceived age and sleep habits. The observational design also means the research cannot determine whether poor sleep influences how old a person feels or vice versa.

"My neighbor tiled my roof for free. He said it was on the house."

While that dad joke might elicit a heavy sigh from family members, experts say a silly pun can alter internal body chemistry and lower stress, potentially providing real health benefits.

Dad jokes are uniquely distinguished by their structure, content and comedic devices, according to a study published on PsyArXiv, an open-access preprint repository for psychology research.

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In analyzing thousands of examples, psychologists Paul J. Silvia (University of North Carolina at Greensboro) and Meriel I. Burnett (University of Massachusetts Amherst) found that dad humor is firmly rooted in puns and wordplay.

While more advanced comedy requires context, a joke about a neighbor's roof may only require someone to understand the dual meaning of a single phrase.

This predictable structure makes dad jokes broadly accessible, creating opportunities for shared humor across generations, the researchers said.

Laughter alters internal chemistry by decreasing stress hormones like cortisol and epinephrine, while simultaneously increasing happiness chemicals like dopamine, serotonin and endorphins.

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A 2023 review in PLOS One found that a single laughter session could slash cortisol levels by more than 36%. This drop in stress lights up regions like the prefrontal cortex, helping the brain to process complex ideas.

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Studies have linked pun comprehension to verbal ability, creative thinking and the ability to make connections between different meanings.

"When we see children laugh, we witness the brilliance of the brain in action: learning, connecting and growing," Jacqueline Harding, PhD, an early childhood expert at Middlesex University in London, told Fox News Digital.

In her book, "The Brain That Loves to Laugh," Harding states that joy is a complex biological phenomenon that helps children navigate stress and build more resilient, receptive minds.

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"Hope and humor, it seems, are not just the seasoning of life, but foundational to a recipe for healthy development."

The physical benefit extends directly to the family unit. Sharing a good laugh can boost oxytocin, a hormone known to deepen emotional bonds between parents and children. It also promotes what psychologists call co-regulation, experts say.

This process allows individuals to manage their own stress by drawing on a shared biological store of positive, safe experiences.

"Spontaneous, joyful play is an antidote to stress, as it increases levels of endorphins released by the brain," Harding said.

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"Creative, happy play does its most brilliant work at a molecular level, especially at a time when the human brain is at its most receptive."

Taking a GLP-1 medication for weight loss may improve male fertility, according to experts.

Research presented this week at ENDO 2026, the Endocrine Society’s annual meeting in Chicago, explored how obesity is strongly linked to fertility problems in men.

Excess weight can contribute to dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis — the hormone system that regulates testosterone production — and functional hypogonadism, a condition in which testosterone levels are abnormally low because of disrupted hormone signaling. These changes can also impair semen quality.

WEIGHT-LOSS MEDICATIONS COULD IMPACT SEXUAL HEALTH IN UNEXPECTED WAYS

The researchers evaluated how GLP-1 weight-loss drugs impact reproductive hormones and metabolic outcomes, analyzing data of men between the ages of 18 and 65 who were taking one of the medications, according to a press release.

The systematic review of five randomized controlled trials focused on measuring testosterone, brain hormones involved in testosterone and sperm production, and a protein that carries sex hormones in the blood. Semen quality, weight and BMI, cholesterol and blood sugar were also measured.

The results suggested that GLP-1 medications do not suppress male hormones. Men with obesity and low testosterone linked to obesity may experience improved testosterone, sperm quality and metabolic health, especially during weight loss.

In one four-week study, dulaglutide showed no significant changes in reproductive hormones or sexual function.

In a separate 16-week trial, liraglutide improved hormones in obese men with functional hypogonadism, meaning low testosterone was likely related to obesity. The review found that liraglutide was better for health outcomes than hormone replacement therapy.

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Another liraglutide study reported improved sperm concentration and count.

A 24-week trial of semaglutide, known commercially as Ozempic and Wegovy, saw improvement in sperm shape and bad cholesterol, while preserving total testosterone.

As only five trials were included, the small evidence base suggests more research is necessary to prove further association.

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In an abstract of the research, the authors summed up that GLP-1s "do not appear to acutely suppress the male HPG axis and may improve reproductive hormones and semen parameters in obese hypogonadal men, largely within the context of weight loss."

"However, evidence remains limited and heterogeneous, underscoring the need for larger RCTs explicitly powered to assess male reproductive outcomes," they wrote.

Dr. Anthony Puopolo, men’s health expert and lead medical provider for RexMD, reflected on these findings in an interview with Fox News Digital.

"This provides early evidence that GLP-1 medications taken by obese men with hypogonadism/low testosterone (low T) improves testosterone levels," he said.

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While more research is necessary, Pupolo, who was not involved in the study, shared his optimism about how GLP-1s can play a role in improving male fertility.

"If this finding continues to gain evidence, GLP-1s might be a better option for low T than testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in obese men – as GLP-1 medications preserve fertility, whereas TRT tends to be harmful to male reproductive/sperm function," he added.

A traveler infected with measles may have exposed passengers at Los Angeles International Airport and guests at a nearby hotel after arriving in Los Angeles County earlier this month, health officials said Wednesday.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health said it is investigating a confirmed measles case involving a traveler who arrived aboard Cathay Pacific Flight CX 884 on June 11. The traveler was infectious while passing through Los Angeles County, potentially exposing others at LAX and the Hilton Los Angeles Airport Hotel.

The case marks the sixth measles infection reported in Los Angeles County this year. Health officials said the risk of exposure could increase as summer travel ramps up and Los Angeles welcomes international visitors for FIFA World Cup events being held in the region.

MEASLES CASES CONFIRMED AT FOUR MAJOR US AIRPORTS ACROSS COUNTRY AMID PEAK HOLIDAY TRAVEL

According to health officials, anyone who was at the Tom Bradley International Terminal between 10 a.m. and noon on June 11 may have been exposed. Officials also identified a potential exposure at the Hilton Los Angeles Airport Hotel, located at 5711 W. Century Blvd., between 11:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. that same day.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is working with local health departments to notify passengers who were seated near the infected traveler on the international flight.

People who were at either location during the listed times could develop symptoms between seven and 21 days after exposure, officials said. The last day to monitor for symptoms is July 2.

AT LEAST 46 CHILDREN DEAD AMID MEASLES OUTBREAK AS VIRUS SPREADS GLOBALLY

"As measles cases increase, it is important that residents take steps to make sure they are fully protected," Los Angeles County Health Officer Dr. Muntu Davis said. "The MMR vaccine is the safest and most reliable way to prevent measles and protect yourself, your family, and your community."

Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, followed by a rash that typically begins on the face before spreading to the rest of the body.

Fox News Digital reached out to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health for additional comment but did not receive a response.

→ Former wrestler, actor reveals breast cancer diagnosis: 'One in 750 men'

→ TV news anchorman reveals he has Alzheimer's during final night helming broadcast

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→ Nightly glass of wine may not be as harmless as many people think, study suggests

→ Bride in full wedding gown makes 2-hour hospital trip to see mother before ceremony

→ Weekly weightlifting sweet spot may be linked to longer life, study finds

→ Americans to get new sunscreen option already used abroad for decades

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America’s youth have been increasingly abusing common over-the-counter medications, according to poison center records.

A health advisory from America’s Poison Centers, representing 53 poison centers across the country, alerted a "concerning rise" in cases of diphenhydramine abuse among teens ages 13 to 19.

Diphenhydramine is commonly found in allergy and sleep medications such as Benadryl and Zzzquil, as mentioned in the advisory.

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From 2024 to 2025, the total exposure to any substance among teens in this age group reportedly increased by 5.1%.

But cases involving diphenhydramine alone increased more rapidly, from 10,068 to 13,284 cases, a 32% spike.

The trend appears to be continuing into 2026, as the first five months saw 6,179 diphenhydramine-only cases in teens — more than double the prior year.

According to America’s Poison Centers, the exposure appears to be driven by recreational misuse rather than accidental over-medication. Thirteen percent of cases in 2026 were linked to intentional abuse, up from 7.3% in 2020.

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Taking diphenhydramine improperly or in large amounts can affect the brain and heart, and can lead to serious or life-threatening effects, the advisory warned.

Some symptoms of diphenhydramine poisoning include drowsiness, agitation, fast heart rate, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, seizures, dangerous heart rhythm and loss of consciousness.

To avoid overexposure and complications, America’s Poison Centers advises the public to store all medications safely, up high, and out of reach of kids and teens. Label instructions should be followed carefully.

"Talk with teens about the risks of misusing medications, including serious health effects and poisoning," the notice suggested. "Be aware of social media trends or challenges that may encourage unsafe use of medications."

Those who suspect misuse should contact the local Poison Control Center immediately.

In a statement to Fox News Digital, Benadryl manufacturer Kenvue commented that the "health and safety of people who use our products is our top priority."

"The social media trend promoting misuse of diphenhydramine-containing products is extremely dangerous and should be stopped immediately," a Kenvue spokesperson said. "Our hearts go out to those impacted by the misuse of diphenhydramine-containing products."

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"We are working with social media platform safety teams to remove these dangerous posts and help stop this behavior from spreading," they added. "We are also taking action to educate on the safe use and storage of over-the-counter medicines, including those with the ingredient diphenhydramine."

Mary Leonard, SVP of communications and public affairs for the Consumer Healthcare Products Association, called the recent report "deeply concerning."

"OTC medicines should never be used for recreational purposes, and intentional misuse should not be confused with the safe, effective use of these products," she told Fox News Digital. "When used as directed, millions of Americans rely on OTC medicines containing diphenhydramine for relief from allergies, cold symptoms, motion sickness, minor skin irritations and occasional sleeplessness."

"Because misuse of any medication can result in serious health consequences, the Drug Facts label clearly communicates dosing instructions, warnings and other important safety information."

Kenvue shared the following three steps people can take to help prevent misuse.

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"Dosing instructions and additional safety information are available on Benadryl.com, and always remember to consult a healthcare professional should you have questions," the spokesperson added.

Fox News Digital reached out to Zzzquil maker P&G for comment.

As the popularity of GLP-1 drugs continues to climb, significant weight loss associated with the medications has been linked to a growing list of cosmetic concerns.

Some surgeons report that more patients are seeking treatments for so-called "Ozempic earlobes," which reportedly appear thinner, longer or more sagging after the loss of facial fat.

"The use of semaglutides causes you to lose fat across your body, including the small, fat pads of the earlobes," facial plastic surgeon Sachin S. Parikh, MD, told NewBeauty.

OZEMPIC, OTHER SEMAGLUTIDES LINKED TO HAIR LOSS: HERE'S WHAT TO KNOW

"It’s important to note that semaglutides do not damage ear tissue or affect hearing in any way, so any intervention would be purely cosmetic," added the California-based doctor.

Some of the potential treatments for "Ozempic earlobes" may include dermal filler, fat transfer, laser treatments or surgical earlobe reduction, according to the report.

Dr. Mohammed Asif from Duly Health and Care in Naperville, Illinois, said that while he hasn't personally noticed an uptick in ear surgeries, he has seen a rise in other procedures due to GLP-1-triggered weight loss.

Some of those include panniculectomies (Ozempic skin removal surgery) and abdominoplasties (tummy tucks).

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"There has been a significant increase in body contouring procedures among patients with GLP-1 weight loss," Asif told Fox News Digital. 

"In my practice, I've seen a significant surge in breast lifts, panniculectomies (skin removal surgery), abdominoplasties (tummy tucks), brachioplasties (arm lifts) and thighplasties due to weight loss."

TOP COSMETIC PROCEDURES REVEALED IN NEW REPORT: WHAT'S TRENDING AND WHY

Healing and recovery are "far greater and less complicated" than with bariatric surgery weight loss, Asif noted.

"This is due to the gradual weight loss achieved over time with GLP-1s."

"Ozempic breast" is another common complaint, according to Dr. Michael Omidi, a double board-certified plastic surgeon practicing in Beverly Hills.

"Women in their 30s and 40s would not typically need a breast lift, but when you’re taking drugs like Ozempic or Wegovy that cause rapid weight loss, women can see gravity take its toll on their breasts," he told Fox News Digital. 

"When women, especially younger ones, lose fat too fast, it causes the breasts, which are comprised of fat, glandular tissue and skin, to lose volume," he went on. "The skin and supporting ligaments don't always bouce back at the same rate as the weight loss, resulting in breasts that can appear saggy and deflated."

NEW OBESITY TREATMENT MAY HELP PRESERVE MUSCLE DURING WEIGHT LOSS

Dr. Samuel Golpanian, a double board-certified plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills, said he has seen "dozens" of patients – men and women alike – seeking treatments for so-called "Ozempic butt" after significant weight loss.

"This is an unintended consequence of taking GLP-1s," he told Fox News Digital.

"Such dramatic weight loss in a short period of time causes the skin not to tighten quickly enough to keep up with the body's changes. Our buttocks have a large amount of fat, so when that volume disappears quickly, you’ll develop a flatter, saggier behind."

Kristy Hamilton, MD, a Houston-based surgeon who is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), agreed that a growing number of patients are seeking skin-tightening procedures after losing large amounts of weight with GLP-1s.

"We're absolutely seeing more of those patients, and I expect that trend to continue," said Hamilton in an ASPS report.

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"People are losing as much as 100 pounds on this medication – and when you're losing that amount, that's significant. You're certainly going to have excess skin afterward."

The ASPS lists the following body-contouring procedures as the ones most frequently performed after substantial weight loss.

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Experts say adequate protein intake and resistance training can help minimize the loss of lean muscle mass that often accompanies rapid weight loss, which could reduce some of the cosmetic concerns.

Golpanian also emphasized the importance of eating enough protein.

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"It can be harder since your appetite is suppressed, but it’s so important to consume at least 110 grams of protein a day while taking a GLP-1 drug," he advised. 

"Also, I say this to my patients all the time: You have to lift weights to keep your muscles from atrophying. Strength training can help build muscles and preserve your glutes."

No sex for the win? This was the advice given to this year’s NBA champions.

New York Knicks owner James Dolan addressed the champs as they headed into the playoffs in April 2026, acknowledging their potential to eventually win the championship.

"I don’t know if you understand what it would mean for you to win a championship this year. … It would be life-changing," he said. "It will stick with you the rest of your lives, and if you don’t win, you’ll be thinking about it the rest of your lives."

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As Dolan’s inspirational speech to the team went on, he explained how the next 10 weeks would require each player to make sacrifices — watching their diets, getting proper sleep and perhaps even abstaining from sex.

"You need sacrifice, and you need to eliminate all the distractions around you," he said.

"I had this idea that maybe you should give up sex for the next 10 weeks," the owner said. "You don't have to give up sex for the next 10 weeks – but, like the Spartans … they denied themselves, so that they can have an edge. Get the edge."

This received a few snickers from the team, and Dolan responded, "Don’t tell [your wives and girlfriends] you’re not going to have sex, and don’t tell them it was my idea. But let them know what this is going to be like … and how they’re going to have to sacrifice, too."

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Dr. Anna Elton, licensed marriage and family therapist and clinical sexologist in Massachusetts, confirmed that this belief has been around for centuries, dating back to the ancient Spartans and early Olympic competitors.

Avoiding sex can preserve energy, increase aggression and sharpen focus, according to Elton.

But modern research has found little evidence that consensual sexual activity negatively affects strength, endurance, reaction time or athletic performance when it occurs at least 10 hours before competition, the doctor countered.

However, "activity very close to competition may affect recovery measures," she added. What may be more important, according to Elton, is the psychological value of abstinence.

"Choosing to abstain can reinforce discipline and total commitment to a larger goal," she said. "In those cases, the advantage may come more from mindset and focus than from any physical effect.

"Whether the sacrifice is alcohol, social activities, favorite foods or sex, the message is often the same: ‘We are all in.'"

This discussion has historically focused on men, which Elton said is often based on "misconceptions about testosterone and energy depletion."

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"Research has not demonstrated that normal sexual activity causes a meaningful decline in athletic performance, and concerns about testosterone depletion have not been consistently supported by the evidence," she said.

"For women, sexual activity may have additional benefits related to stress reduction, emotional regulation and relationship satisfaction."

In a separate interview with Fox News Digital, Dr. Anthony Puopolo, a men's health expert and lead medical provider for RexMD, echoed Elton's assessment that research largely does not support abstinence as a performance enhancer.

This is despite a small amount of evidence that suggests engaging in sexual activity within two hours of competition could pose a risk to cardiovascular recovery.

WEIGHT LOSS MEDICATIONS COULD IMPACT SEXUAL HEALTH IN UNEXPECTED WAYS

"Unfortunately, nearly all studies (99%) have been conducted in males aged 20 to 40, so there is virtually no data on female athletes, older athletes or diverse populations," the Puerto Rico-based expert said. "We know what to tell the Knicks, but we are not sure what to recommend for the New York Liberty."

Elton said abstinence may still offer psychological benefits for some competitors. 

"For some athletes, it can become part of a pre-competition ritual that enhances confidence," she told Fox News Digital.

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Some other potential benefits of sexual activity include stress reduction, improved sleep, mood enhancement, emotional connection with a partner and relief from performance-related tension.

"Strong, supportive relationships are associated with better psychological resilience, which can be valuable during high-pressure competitions," Elton said.

"Ultimately, there is no universal rule," she added. "What helps one athlete perform at their best may not help another."

Elton stressed that sleep, recovery, nutrition, stress management and support from loved ones are universal performance boosters.

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"Athletes devote tremendous attention to training their bodies, while overlooking the importance of their personal relationships," she cautioned. "A supportive partner can be one of the greatest assets during a demanding season.

"If competition requires temporary sacrifices, make those decisions together and keep communication open."

Eliminating sugar from your diet may seem like the key to healthy eating, but research suggests it could have unintended effects on digestive health.

A study presented at ENDO 2026, the Endocrine Society's annual meeting, suggests that a total lack of sucrose, or table sugar, may harm gut health and disrupt the body's natural metabolism.

To explore how the total absence of dietary sugar impacts the body, researchers at the Dasman Diabetes Institute in Kuwait City conducted a 16-week study on two groups of mice. Both groups were placed on a low-fat diet, but with one critical difference.

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One group consumed a low-fat diet that included a standard amount of sucrose, while the other group ate a low-fat diet that was completely sugar-free, according to the study's press release.

Throughout the trial, the scientists monitored a wide variety of physiological factors, including the animals' weight, glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, hormone levels, internal inflammation and the specific composition of their gut bacteria.

The study outcome suggested that completely removing sugar caused several unexpected health problems.

"Completely removing sucrose from a low-fat diet may unexpectedly disrupt gut health and promote inflammation and metabolic dysfunction," Rasheed Ahmad, principal scientist and head of the Immunology & Microbiology Department at the Dasman Diabetes Institute, said in the release.

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Even though the mice on the sugar-free diet did not gain any extra weight compared to the control group, their internal health indicators deteriorated.

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The animals that lacked sucrose developed an imbalance in their gut microbes and increased inflammation within the intestines and liver.

They also showed signs of poor glucose regulation, insulin resistance and cellular changes associated with fatty liver disease, according to the research.

"The findings suggest that complete removal of sucrose from a low-fat diet may negatively affect gut microbiota and metabolic health," Ahmad concluded.

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While the risks of high-sugar diets are well-established, the researchers noted that little attention has been given to the effects of completely eliminating sugar from low-fat meals.

Scientists say these new findings highlight that dietary carbohydrates play a valuable role in supporting balance between the immune system and the gut microbiome.

Because this research was conducted on mice over a relatively short 16-week period, further clinical trials are necessary to determine whether a completely sugar-free diet causes the same gut and liver inflammation in humans.

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Additionally, the study focused specifically on removing sucrose from low-fat meals, meaning the results might not apply to people eliminating sugar while following higher-fat or ketogenic eating plans, the researchers noted.

The team believes that future dietary guidelines may shift away from strict, absolute sugar restrictions and instead place a greater emphasis on maintaining a diverse, healthy population of gut bacteria through balanced nutrition.

"In the long term, these findings could help improve strategies for preventing and managing metabolic disorders, fatty liver disease and chronic inflammatory conditions," Ahmad said.

A cure for cancer could be on the horizon in the next decade, according to experts.

During the WSJ Leadership Institute CEO Summit in London last week, Johnson & Johnson Chairman and CEO Joaquin Duato reflected on the pharmaceutical company’s projections on the future of cancer treatment.

In the next 10 years, the goal is to "try to eliminate cancer," Duato shared.

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"That’s a high goal, and we are already making significant progress in certain cancers," he said.

Duato used multiple myeloma as an example, noting that the life expectancy is currently 10 years, when it was previously "only single years."

"We have treatments now that utilize your own immune system to attack the cancer," he said at the summit. "For patients who were already going into hospice, so they didn’t have any other alternative, they are [at] more than five years, with a single administration, in remission. That [is] spectacular."

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"When patients see that, they cannot believe that because they have been coming to the hospital every week [for] a decade, having multiple therapies."

According to Duato, Johnson & Johnson is working to understand the biology of cancer growth and to formulate new technologies to address it.

"It’s realistic to believe that we are going to cure certain cancers, and some others we’re going to turn into chronic diseases," he predicted.

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"Cancer is an important thing – I cannot think about anybody who has not been touched by cancer," he went on. "But there are many other opportunities for us to actually advance science, to address very important social problems."

Duato called out dementia as another "important problem" in need of a solution.

He predicted that life expectancy, which has risen steadily over the past century, will continue to increase as longevity technologies and solutions advance, improving quality of life along the way.

Duato commented that J&J has been optimistic about the role artificial intelligence will play in the future of healthcare, calling it a "force multiplier."

Fox News senior medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel agreed with Duato's outlook on the future of cancer care, noting that certain cancers will turn into chronic diseases while others will find outright cures.

"Advances [will be] based on the use of AI to help guide targeted treatments with expanding knowledge of cancer mutations and how to target them," he predicted, speaking to Fox News Digital.

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Siegel added that biomarkers and AI can help with earlier diagnoses, as well as a more advanced and personalized approach to surgery.

J&J recently acquired Firefly Bio, a biotech firm that produces drugs that enter cancer cells to "target certain proteins that contain difficult to treat gene mutations," the doctor added.

Among those taking GLP-1 medications for weight loss, exercise rates are decreasing, according to new research.

The study, set to be presented at ENDO 2026 (the Endocrine Society's annual meeting) in Chicago this week, found that adults with obesity who lost weight with a GLP-1, such as Ozempic or Wegovy, "significantly reduced" their physical activity.

In an Endocrine Society press release, study lead Sajana Maharjan, MD, of HSHS St. John's Hospital in Springfield, Illinois, noted that GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide, liraglutide, dulaglutide and tirzepatide reduce both fat and lean muscle mass.

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This means physical activity is "essential for preserving strength and long-term health," she said.

The study, reportedly the first of its kind, considered data from a National Institutes of Health research program that linked participant records with fitness tracker activity.

Researchers analyzed data from 753 people with obesity who initiated a GLP-1 medication. The cohort was mostly female, at a mean age of 52.7 years.

Comparing activity in participants before and after beginning treatment, the average number of steps decreased from 5,047 to 4,487 per day. Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity fell from 28 to 22 minutes per day, the study found.

The largest declines were observed in men and in those with joint or muscle pain. Other factors like age, heart failure or prior stroke did not change results.

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Although many people might assume that losing weight with these medications would lead to increased physical activity, the study found no evidence that it did, according to Maharjan.

"The findings in our study reinforce that exercise cannot be optional for people taking these medications," he said. "People need targeted interventions that encourage physical activity alongside medication for obesity."

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The study was retrospective and observational, meaning it could only display an association, not a direct cause. The participants were also mostly middle-aged women, which could limit the scope of who is most impacted, the researchers noted.

Other factors that were not measured include exercise habits before starting treatment, motivation levels and guidance from a physician.

Dr. Peter Balazs MD, a hormone and weight-loss specialist practicing in New York and New Jersey, echoed in an interview with Fox News Digital that weight loss does not automatically lead to increased mobility or greater motivation to exercise.

"In fact, being in a calorie deficit can cause the body to conserve energy, resulting in a lower metabolic rate," he said.

"Additionally, side effects of weight-loss medications, such as nausea, fatigue or gastrointestinal discomfort, may further reduce a person's ability or desire to be physically active," the expert added.

For GLP-1 users, Balazs stressed that exercise "is not optional." Patients must incorporate resistance training and regular daily movement, like walking, into their routine to "preserve lean muscle mass, maintain metabolic health and support long-term weight management," he advised.

"Exercise plays a critical role during weight loss," Balazs said. "Without adequate physical activity, a significant portion of weight loss may come from muscle rather than fat."

The expert noted that there is not a one-size-fits-all approach, as the timing, intensity and type of workout should be individualized based on a person’s fitness level, health status and body composition.

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"This is particularly important for patients with a high BMI who may have mobility limitations or lower baseline fitness levels," Balazs said. "It's important to consider injury risk, long-term adherence and the potential for early burnout."

Board-certified internist and longevity expert Dr. Amanda Kahn said she disagrees with this study’s conclusions, as they do not reflect what she is seeing in her own clinical practice.

"Weight loss often serves as the impetus that motivates patients to become more physically active and more engaged in their overall health," the New York-based expert told Fox News Digital.

"The success of GLP-1 therapy is directly tied to the expertise of the provider," she went on. "When these medications are prescribed thoughtfully – with attention to nutrition, resistance training, body composition and laboratory monitoring – they can help patients lose weight while becoming healthier, stronger and more motivated to exercise."

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Kahn, a peptide prescriber, does not recommend simply prescribing a GLP-1 medication and allowing the patient to "self-manage."

"In my practice, if a patient is unable to exercise, is not meeting protein goals or shows concerning muscle loss on body composition analysis, I will often hold or adjust the medication – because preserving strength, function and metabolic health is just as important as weight loss," she said.

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If a GLP-1 patient becomes too fatigued to exercise, develops nutritional deficiencies or loses excessive muscle mass, Kahn warned that this reflects a "monitoring problem" rather than a medication problem, as these medications "require close clinical oversight."

Higher levels of vitamin C were linked to healthier brain structure in older adults, suggesting a potential role for nutrition in brain aging.

That’s according to new research from Japan, published in the journal PLOS ONE.

The observational study included 2,044 participants living in Hirosaki City, Japan, who were originally included in a study exploring dementia and heart disease risk. The average age was 69, and 61% of them were female.

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The researchers measured the participants’ vitamin C levels using blood samples and performed MRI scans to calculate the volume of gray matter and white matter in their brains.

Even after accounting for external factors like age, smoking habits, diabetes and other lifestyle behaviors, they found that those with lower vitamin C levels appeared to have lower brain tissue volumes and weaker structural network patterns.

"Our study demonstrates that older adults with higher blood levels of vitamin C tend to have better-preserved brain structure (gray matter) and stronger connections within the default mode network (DMN), a crucial brain network involved in memory and cognitive function," Tomohiro Shintaku, MD, PhD, assistant professor in the Department of Radiology Graduate School of Medicine at Hirosaki University, told Fox News Digital.

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"While diets rich in vitamin C are known to lower the risk of cognitive decline, our study is the very first to demonstrate a direct association between actual blood plasma vitamin C levels and the structural connectivity of the DMN," he added.

This network is often affected by conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and depression, according to the researchers.

The vitamin C measurement was more accurate than studies that relied on dietary estimates, the researchers noted.

"What I found most fascinating is that we could detect such clear associations between a single nutritional factor (vitamin C) and large-scale brain networks in a robust cohort of over 2,000 older adults," Shintaku said. "It highlights how significantly our everyday dietary habits might impact brain structure."

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The study underscores the importance of obtaining vitamin C from the daily diet, as humans cannot synthesize it on their own, the researchers noted.

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"Our findings suggest that maintaining optimal vitamin C levels through a healthy diet — rich in citrus fruits, berries, tomatoes and green leafy vegetables — could be a simple yet powerful way to support brain health as we age," Shintaku said.

The study did have some limitations, the researchers noted. 

"Because our study is observational and cross-sectional, we can only show an association, not a cause-and-effect relationship," Shintaku told Fox News Digital. "Other limitations include relying on a single blood measurement per participant."

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Other external factors, such as dietary intake, body mass index and socioeconomic variables, could have played a role in the outcomes.

Also, the link was relatively modest compared to established risk factors like high blood pressure and blood sugar, the researchers noted.

Findings from other, larger studies, including UK Biobank research with more than 9,000 people, suggest that vitamin C is just one of several factors that may influence brain health.

Because the participants were almost all older Japanese adults, the findings may not be generalized to other populations.

"This study found an association between higher plasma vitamin C levels and MRI markers of brain health, including gray matter volume and connectivity in the default mode network, which is involved in several cognitive functions," Dung Trinh, MD, an internal medicine physician and founder of the Healthy Brain Clinic, commented to Medical News Today.

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"That said, the study does not prove that vitamin C prevents cognitive decline or that taking supplements will improve brain health. It is best viewed as a signal that vitamin C status may be one piece of a much larger brain-health picture."

A parasitic tapeworm known as Echinococcus multilocularis — often called the "fox tapeworm" — has been detected for the first time in West Coast wildlife. 

University of Washington researchers discovered the tapeworm, which can cause a rare but potentially deadly disease in humans, in 37 out of 100 coyotes sampled near Puget Sound in Washington State. The findings were published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases earlier this year.

Researchers noted that the presence of the parasite in wildlife does not mean human infections are common, and that the risk to the general public remains low.

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"The reason that [cases are] so high in coyotes is because they are regularly eating raw rodents, and that is the primary way for them to get infected," said lead author Yasmine Hentati, who recently graduated from the UW with a doctorate in environmental and forest science, in a press release.

The study's genetic testing showed the coyotes carried a newer, more infectious European variant that has become the predominant strain in the U.S. and Canada.

Prior to the 2010s, the parasitic tapeworm was extremely rare in North America, with cases largely confined to the remote islands in Alaska, the authors said.

Over the last 15 years, the parasite has expanded its range, with dog and human infections increasing across the Midwestern U.S. and Canada, according to past reports.

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Cases in coyotes have been spreading west from the upper Midwest for several years, and infected animals have been found on the West Coast, according to Dr. Linda Yancey, an infectious disease specialist at Memorial Hermann in the Houston area.

While Eastern Europe has some cases, the infection is very rarely seen in the U.S., Yancey noted.

Most cases of echinococcosis are diagnosed in patients who immigrated from or traveled to Central and East Asia, the Middle East and North Africa.

"Worldwide, the area with the highest prevalence of human infections with the fox tapeworm is western China," Yancey added.

The tapeworm is transmitted among wild animals known as canids — typically cycling from foxes to rodents and back to foxes — and is often referred to as the "fox tapeworm," Yancey told Fox News Digital.

Humans can get sick from accidentally ingesting worm eggs after handling contaminated soil or eating contaminated food. They can also get the infection by handling a pet that has the tapeworm and then touching their mouth, according to Cleveland Clinic.

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The hallmark of the infection is fluid-filled sacs called cysts, which contain thousands of very small, immature tapeworms that develop commonly in the liver but can spread to other parts of the body, according to Cleveland Clinic.

The infection often goes undetected for years, or even decades, because the cysts grow at a very slow rate.

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There are two main types of forms of the illness: cystic echinococcosis and alveolar echinococcosis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

With cystic echinococcosis, cysts often develop in the liver and lungs. The body responds by building a protective wall around them as the cysts continue to grow slowly over years.

Symptoms can include abdominal pain or increased belly size (if it infects the liver) or coughing and shortness of breath (if the lungs are infected). These signs usually do not appear until the cysts grow large enough to press on healthy organs and tissues, according to the CDC.

The infection becomes dangerous when a cyst ruptures — most often due to trauma — and may even lead to death if cyst fluid is released into the body.

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Alveolar echinococcosis is a rarer, more lethal form of the infection. It grows into a tumor-like mass that invades and destroys surrounding tissue, typically in the liver, but can also spread to other parts of the body, including the brain. In severe cases, it can lead to liver failure and death, experts say.

"Symptoms of liver failure include fatigue, yellowing of the skin and eyeballs, and abdominal pain," Yancey cautioned.

This form of the infection can mimic cancer, so it’s important to see a doctor if symptoms are noticed, she added.

While the overall risk of infection is low, simple precautions can further reduce exposure.

"The most important way to protect yourself from the fox tapeworm is also the simplest: good hand hygiene," Yancey advised.

She recommends washing your hands before eating and after you have been outside or have handled soil in areas where the tapeworm is endemic.

"For dog owners, prevent your animals from eating wild rodents and make sure all your pets get routine veterinary care," Yancey added.

The CDC also recommends avoiding contact with wild animals that can carry the tapeworm, such as foxes, coyotes and stray dogs.

"Routine testing and treatment for worms of all kinds keeps your pups healthy and [keeps] you safe," Yancey noted.

Fox News Digital reached out to the lead authors of the study requesting comment.

A newly identified muscle protein may help explain why people who stay active as they age often remain stronger and healthier for longer, according to new research.

Scientists found that a protein called NOX4 naturally declines with age and inactivity. As levels dropped, researchers observed signs of frailty, muscle loss, insulin resistance and liver disease in mice.

The findings were published in the journal Science Advances.

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Researchers believe NOX4 helps muscles repair themselves and adapt to the physical demands of exercise.

When NOX4 was removed from the muscles of mice, the animals became weaker, lost muscle mass and developed health problems commonly associated with aging.

The researchers also found that exercise helped restore NOX4 levels in older mice.

Josephine Hunt, an educational leader, former group fitness instructor and founder of The Resilience Revolution based in New Jersey, who was not involved in the study, told Fox News Digital that the findings help explain why exercise benefits so many aspects of health.

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"Movement is medicine," Hunt said.

"The emerging NOX4 research is exciting because it helps explain something exercise scientists have observed for decades. Physical activity does far more than strengthen muscles."

Hunt said many people view exercise as a way to improve appearance or fitness, but its effects reach much deeper.

"Exercise appears to activate biological signaling pathways that help the body adapt, repair and become more resilient over time," she said.

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She said one of the study's biggest takeaways is that physical activity helps the body maintain its ability to recover from challenges.

"Exercise does not simply help us look younger or stay physically fit," Hunt said. "It appears to help the body maintain its ability to adapt, repair and respond to stress."

Hunt added that healthy aging is about more than simply living longer.

"Healthy aging is not just about adding years to life," she said. "It is about preserving strength, function, independence, cognitive health and overall quality of life."

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Researchers stressed that additional studies are needed, but the findings may help explain why regular physical activity remains one of the most effective tools for maintaining health as people age.

The study was conducted in mice, meaning the findings do not necessarily translate directly to humans.

While the team also examined muscle samples from younger and older men and found similar declines in NOX4, additional research is needed to better understand the protein's role in human aging.

Sticking to a resistance or strength training routine for a certain amount of time may extend your life, according to a new study.

Research published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine analyzed whether workouts involving weightlifting and weight machines are linked to a lower risk of death over time.

The study followed more than 147,000 U.S. adults who participated in three large health studies spanning up to 30 years. More than 35,000 died during the study period.

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Participants reported their exercise habits, including the number of minutes per week spent on resistance training and on aerobic activity, like walking, biking or swimming.

Resistance training levels were then compared with later death from any cause, as well as from cardiovascular disease, cancer, respiratory disease and neurological disease, according to a press release.

Doing a moderate amount of resistance training was linked with a lower risk of death, according to study results. This outcome persisted even after researchers adjusted for other factors like age, smoking, diet quality, alcohol intake, family history and aerobic activity.

The clearest benefit was seen at around 90 to 119 minutes per week of resistance training.

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People who stuck to this interval of training per week had a 13% lower risk of all-cause death, 19% lower risk of death from heart disease and 27% lower risk of death from neurological disease.

More than 120 minutes of resistance training per week did not appear to add extra benefit to the overall death risk, according to the findings.

A lower risk of cancer death was seen at even small amounts of resistance training — 30 to 59 minutes per week was associated with a 12% decreased risk.

The lowest overall death risk was found in people who did both higher aerobic activity and moderate to high resistance training.

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The study shows only an association between resistance training and lower death risk, not a direct cause, the researchers noted.

Other limitations were that participants reported their own exercise habits, which may not have been completely accurate, and the study did not measure how intensely they exercised.

The authors reflected in the study that engaging in "sufficient aerobic or resistance training alone is linked to lower mortality, with a stronger effect from aerobic activity."

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The lowest risk was seen among people who did high levels of both aerobic exercise and resistance training. However, for people already doing a very high amount of aerobic exercise (roughly five to six hours of jogging or 11 hours of brisk walking per week), adding resistance training did not appear to lower the risk any further, they noted.

In a previous interview with Fox News Digital, Kenny Santucci, fitness trainer, gym owner and host of the "Strong New York" podcast, shared the importance of pairing general movement with a focus on muscle building.

For a better fitness outcome, Santucci encourages gym-goers to add more strength training to their routines and to lift "a little bit heavier."

"Strength training should be the basis of what you do," he said. "I don't have anything against cycling … but if you're telling me that's the basis of your training, and your goal is aesthetics, then you are not really helping yourself get to that point any easier."

Santucci recommends working at about 60% to 80% of capacity, pushing to a point of fatigue with moderate intensity.

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"There's a science behind muscle growth, and if there's no external force pushing against the muscle tissue, and you're not fueling yourself with protein, then you're probably not going to build muscle," he said.

"Hard doesn't necessarily mean it's a better workout … If you're training at levels of intensity, then you're reproducing good outcomes."

A vaccine created using artificial intelligence that could potentially provide broader protection against multiple coronaviruses and help prepare for future outbreaks has passed its first human clinical trial.

Researchers from the Universities of Cambridge and Southampton developed a "universal vaccine" designed to protect against multiple Sarbeco coronaviruses, which the university explained in a news release is "the large group of viruses that occur in nature, including SARS-CoV-2, which caused the COVID pandemic."

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Traditional vaccines must constantly be updated as viruses mutate, and the process is "like a dog chasing its tail," said University of Southampton professor Saul Faust, the trial’s chief investigator.

"Viruses like Influenza, coronaviruses and the Ebola group are evolving continuously, and by the time vaccines are rolled out, they may be poorly matched — the current ‘reactive’ vaccine system struggles to keep pace," Faust said.

An antigen is the active ingredient in a vaccine meant to trigger an immune-system response and fight off infection. According to the release, the university scientists logged all the available genetic sequence data for Sarbeco coronaviruses and used AI used to design a "super-antigen" that contains the antigen features "common to this whole group of viruses – including ones that haven’t emerged yet."

The trial of the vaccine proved safe and triggered an immune response in 39 healthy volunteers, marking "the first time that a vaccine whose active component was designed entirely by computer simulations has been tested in humans," the release said.

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The trial vaccine was administered through a micro-fluid jet that delivers the immunization through the skin using a tiny, high-pressure stream of liquid and does not require a needle. The researchers said this method could make it "faster and easier to carry out in large numbers of people."

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"This new class of universal vaccines are future-proofed," Faust said. "They not only protect against many variants simultaneously, but potentially against related viruses that haven’t yet emerged and spilt over to humans. If we can develop and clinically advance this new class of vaccines before a virus outbreak begins, millions of lives could be saved, lockdowns avoided and the economy preserved."

Some experts have raised broad concerns about using AI in medicine, primarily when it comes to making clinical decisions, not developing vaccines. Certain groups of people may be underrepresented in the data AI relies on, resulting in biased outcomes, some said.

AI also sometimes produces erroneous information, called "hallucinations," and determining who is liable for medical failings in such situations is a complex matter.

Others have expressed concern over patient privacy, as well as the need for human judgment that takes into account the scope of a patient’s health history, rather than a single dataset.

The universal-vaccine researchers said that a larger trial involving "a wider and more diverse population" is needed. They published their findings in Journal of Infection.

Former professional wrestler and actor Tyler Mane announced he has been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Known for his roles in "X-Men" and "Halloween," Mane shared the news publicly to help raise awareness about a condition that is frequently overlooked in men.

"I have some bad news. I start chemo today," Mane stated in a video posted to his social media channels. "One in 750 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, and I'm one of them."

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Because breast cancer is predominantly associated with women, many men are unaware that they are also at risk. However, according to the Mayo Clinic, everyone is born with a small amount of breast tissue.

While women go on to develop more of this tissue during puberty, the biological foundation for the disease exists in everyone.

The most common symptom of male breast cancer is a hard, painless lump located directly behind or near the nipple, according to experts. Other signs can include skin dimpling, nipple retraction or discharge.

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Male breast cancer is rare, accounting for less than 1% of all cases globally. Because routine screenings like mammograms are not standard practice for men, the disease is often caught much later than it is in women.

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Mane highlighted this issue as a primary motivation for speaking out. 

"Because it's rarely talked about, it's usually found at later stages and has worse outcomes," he said. "I want to change that."

Medical data supports Mane's concerns regarding late-stage detection. While male breast cancer can occur at any age, it is most frequently diagnosed in older men, according to Mayo Clinic.

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Men's treatment plans generally mirror those for women, typically involving surgery to remove the breast tissue, followed by chemotherapy, radiation or hormone therapy, depending on how far the cancer has progressed.

Mane said he is utilizing his platform to normalize conversations about male health and encourage early detection. He concluded his video by asking his followers to spread the word and help educate others.

"Follow, like and share, and come along for my journey to kick this thing in the ass," Mane said. "Send this to 10 of your friends and have them follow me, because people need to hear this."