NPR Health

New research on ancient human remains suggests the habitual usage of betel nuts, a plant seed with mind-affecting properties that is popular in parts of Asia despite the health risks it presents.

The International Rescue Committee warned that its goals of ending poverty, hunger, disease are failing. NPR's Mary Louise Kelly speaks with the IRC's president about how to reverse course.

For public health officials, this week has been a bit of a split screen.

The 17 goals agreed upon by world leaders are incredibly ambitious. Are we even close to achieving any of them? If we don't, is the project a failure?

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. names new members to powerful federal task force that plays a key role in determining the kind of preventive case people get. In a major departure, the new members of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force include specialists instead of experts on preventive care and general medicine, raising fears among many doctors.

A new study on ancient human remains finds evidence for the habitual use of betel nuts, dating back to the Ice Age. The finding offers some of the oldest archaeological evidence of psychoactive drug use, and potential insights into how use of betel nuts, now popular for their stimulant effects, evolved.

Many questions come up during pregnancy. Is swelling normal? Are avocados safe to eat? For folks in Kenya who don't have a search engine at their fingertips, a chatbot is offering a lifeline.

The Trump administration's efforts to lower drug prices included promised changes to Medicaid. But it's still unclear which drugs will be affected. And each state has to opt in.

Someday soon your doctor may prescribe the psychedelic drug LSD to treat anxiety.

The Senate committee on health held a confirmation hearing for three top health officials, including surgeon general. Dr. Nicole Saphier is President Trump's third pick to be the nation's top doctor.

In a new book, psychologist Marisa Franco explains why it's good to feel good about yourself — and shares a helpful memory technique that we've turned into a printable worksheet.

Some states deliver meals to Medicaid patients that address their dietary needs. Evidence shows it aids recovery and saves healthcare costs, but federal budget cuts may lead some states to cancel it.