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Navigating a rare disease? The Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center can help!

GARD Information Specialists can help you find information and resources for your rare disease.

Millions of people in the United States live with a rare disease. While each individual disease may be uncommon, the people they affect often face similar challenges. Finding reliable information, getting a diagnosis, and locating resources can feel overwhelming.

That’s where NIH’s Genetic and Rare Diseases (GARD) Information Center can help.

Easy-to-understand information at your fingertips

GARD is a comprehensive resource for anyone affected by a rare disease. On their website, you’ll find current, reliable, and easy-to-understand information on thousands of rare diseases. Information is available in both English and Spanish. It is presented in a clear and actionable way, giving you the information you may need to get a diagnosis, manage your care, or find a supportive community.

Explore thousands of rare diseases in GARD’s online directory.

Connect with a GARD Information Specialist

Getting a diagnosis for a rare disease can be challenging and, for some patients, may take months to years. GARD offers free support through its team of dedicated Information Specialists.

GARD Information Specialists can provide individualized help with:

  • Finding or understanding information about a rare disease
  • Navigating the process of getting a rare disease diagnosis
  • Finding resources, disease experts, and clinical trials
  • Connecting with patient communities

While GARD Information Specialists can’t give you medical advice or make a diagnosis, they can help you find someone to answer your questions.

Example of a GARD webpage about a specific condition

Each disease page has information about the disease, diagnosis, clinical research, patient organizations, and other resources.

Contacting GARD

GARD Information Specialists are available Monday through Friday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time (except federal holidays).

Get in touch by calling toll-free at 888-205-2311 or by filling out a contact form on their website.

Tip: Be as specific as possible when describing your information needs to a GARD Information Specialist. It’s a good idea to have some questions prepared ahead of time.

With GARD's support, you won't have to face a rare disease alone.

After filling out the GARD contact form, you will be contacted by an Information Specialist.

 

Image credit: Getty Images

August 06, 2024

Find out what our proteins can tell us about autoimmune diseases with NIH SciBites

In this online video, Adeline Chin describes her research on protein levels of children who have a rare autoimmune disorder.

NIH SciBites, a series of short videos from NIH's Intramural Research Program, explain complex science topics in ways that are short, sweet, and easy to digest. 

Our immune systems work 24/7 to keep us healthy by protecting us from harmful viruses and bacteria. Autoimmune diseases happen when the immune system turns against the body and attacks healthy cells instead.

Adeline Chin is a medical student at the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine. As an NIH postbaccalaureate research fellow, she studied a rare autoimmune disease called juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM). In this video, Adeline explains how the proteins she studied could give us a better understanding of what causes complicated autoimmune diseases like JDM, which may help researchers find new ways to treat them.

Check out SciBites: What Our Proteins Can Tell Us About Autoimmune Diseases.
 

NIH Intramural Research Program (IRP)

Image credit: NIH Intramural Research Program

March 08, 2023

Curious about what happens at the largest biomedical research institution on earth?

Learn about it through an exciting podcast called Speaking of Science!

Hear about fascinating biomedical questions and challenges and how NIH researchers are tackling them.

The Intramural Research Program (IRP) is NIH’s internal research program and the largest biomedical research institution in the world. From research labs to patients’ bedsides, IRP researchers advance biomedicine with the goal of improving health, reducing illness, and saving lives.

In the IRP’s Speaking of Science podcast, you’ll hear directly from scientists and clinicians across NIH Institutes and Centers who are tackling fascinating questions and challenges in biomedicine. Each Speaking of Science episode features a conversation with a different IRP researcher on topics such as: 

Tune in to Speaking of Science on the IRP website or on your favorite podcast app. 

NIH Intramural Research Program

Image credit: NIH Intramural Research Program

November 15, 2022

Powered by NIH: Extramural funding spotlight on Michigan

NIH funding powers extramural research programs.

NIH funding powers research and programs that improve health and lead to new scientific findings. While intramural research happens within NIH’s labs and clinics, extramural research grants from NIH’s Institutes and Centers support programs outside of NIH.

MedlinePlus Magazine explores how this funding is making a difference in communities across the country. This month, we’re putting the spotlight on extramural research supported by the National Library of Medicine (NLM). Each year, NLM awards more than 80% of its budget to universities, medical schools, and other research institutions to support research and training in biomedical informatics and data science. 

Explore more of NLM’s offerings by taking a virtual tour of the largest biomedical library in the world.

Using machine intelligence to reduce medical errors

Medical errors are a leading cause of death in the United States, and many of these errors involve medications. With funding from NLM’s Extramural Programs, researchers at the University of Michigan College of Pharmacy are using machine intelligence to accurately identify different medications and help prevent these errors. 

Learn how this research helps reduce medication errors by making sure that patients are getting the right pills in the right bottles.

Using Machine Intelligence to Prevent Medication Dispensing Errors—YouTube
 

National Library of Medicine

Image credit: National Institutes of Health

November 15, 2022

Powered by NIH: Extramural funding spotlight on Ohio

NIH funding powers extramural research programs.

NIH funding powers research and programs that improve health and lead to new scientific findings. While intramural research happens within NIH’s labs and clinics, extramural research grants provide support for programs outside of NIH.

MedlinePlus magazine explores how funding from NIH’s institutes and centers is making a difference in communities across the country. This month, we’re putting the spotlight on extramural research supported by the National Library of Medicine (NLM). Each year, NLM awards more than 80% of its budget to universities, medical schools, and other research institutions to support research and training in biomedical informatics and data science. 

Ohio: Empowering youth aging out of foster care with personal health records 

There are about 470,000 children in the foster care system in the United States, and every year more than 5,000 of them age out of the system. With support from an NLM extramural grant, Judith Dexheimer, Ph.D., of Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center built an application called Health Hero, which helps youth who are aging out of foster care access and use their medical records. Learn about how Health Hero empowers these young people to take charge of their health care.

National Library of Medicine

Image credit: Images courtesy of the National Institutes of Health

August 24, 2022

Yoga for Health: Learn about the science and practice of yoga

Learn what the science says about yoga in the free downloadable e-book.

Curious about the effects of yoga on physical and mental well-being? Find out about the science of yoga with Yoga for Health, a free downloadable e-book from the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH).

Yoga is an ancient practice with modern benefits. More Americans than ever before are practicing yoga for their health and well-being. With NCCIH’s Yoga for Health, you can learn about the practice of yoga.

Yoga combines physical postures with breathing techniques and relaxation or meditation, which research shows can promote physical and mental health in people of all ages and backgrounds. You’ll find specific information about yoga for children, older adults, pregnant people, and people with health conditions, as well as tips for practicing yoga safely (such as discussing your health needs with your doctor and yoga instructor before starting a new program).

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

Image credit: Getty images

August 22, 2022

Become your healthiest self with NIH’s Wellness Toolkits

When you want to become the best version of yourself but aren’t sure where to start

Improve your well-being with NIH’s Your Healthiest Self: Wellness Toolkits.

There’s a lot of information out there about the best ways to stay healthy, but health and wellness mean different things to different people. We each come from diverse backgrounds and have different minds, bodies, relationships, and living situations, so it makes sense that we all have different health needs.

NIH’s Your Healthiest Self: Wellness Toolkits, available in English and Spanish, have evidence-based tips and resources to help you improve your well-being in different areas. Well-being includes your physical, emotional, and social health; your relationships; and the environments where you live, work, and play.

Looking to improve your physical health? Check out the Physical Wellness Toolkit for tips on:

  • Getting active
  • Building muscle
  • Finding and staying at a healthy weight
  • Eating a healthy diet
  • Building healthy habits 
  • Keeping your metabolism healthy as you age

Need support with a different area of your health? NIH has you covered with toolkits to help you:  

Your “healthiest self” will look a little different from that of others in your life. With NIH’s Your Healthiest Self: Wellness Toolkits, you can focus on what’s most important to you right now. 

Alternative accessible version (pdf)

NIH Office of Communications and Public Liaison

Image credit: NIH OCPL

August 16, 2022

Physical fitness and nutrition: Know your terms

Make the most of your exercise routine and eat a healthy and balanced diet.

Staying healthy includes exercising, eating nutritious food, getting enough sleep, and caring for your overall well-being. Understanding these terms can help you make the most of your exercise routine and eat a healthy and balanced diet. Always consult your doctor before beginning any exercise program.

Physical activity terms

Physical activity is any body movement that works your muscles and takes more energy than resting. Walking, running, dancing, swimming, yoga, and gardening are a few examples of physical activity. 

  • Aerobic exercise is activity that requires moving your large muscles such as, those in your arms and legs. It makes you breathe harder and makes your heart beat faster than usual. Over time, regular aerobic activity makes your heart and lungs stronger. Running, swimming, walking, and biking are a few examples of aerobic exercise. 
  • Flexibility training is exercise that stretches and lengthens your muscles. It can improve your joints and muscle flexibility, which can help prevent injuries. Some examples are yoga, tai chi, and Pilates.
  • Resistance/strength training is exercise that firms and tones your muscles. It can improve your bone strength, balance, and coordination. Some examples are push-ups, lunges, and bicep curls.
  • Warm-ups are exercises or movements that get your body and muscles ready to be physically active―for example, walking or jogging for 5 to 10 minutes before a run. 
  • Cool-downs are light activities that help your body relax and recover after you’ve been physically active―for example, slowing down gradually at the end of a workout or switching to a less-intense activity for a few minutes.

Heart rate (or pulse) is the number of times your heart beats in a certain amount of time—usually a minute. The typical resting heart rate for an adult is 60 to 100 beats per minute. 

  • Maximum heart rate is the fastest your heart can healthily beat based on your age.
  • Target heart rate is how fast your heart should beat when you exercise based on your age. Your target heart rate should be about 50–75% of your maximum heart rate. 

Perspiration (sweat) is a clear, salty liquid produced by glands in your skin. Sweat evaporates when it hits the air, which cools your body down. 

Nutrition terms

Food and drinks provide the energy and nutrients you need to be healthy. Nutrients include proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water. 

Basal metabolic rate is the number of calories your body needs to maintain basic functions such as breathing, heart rate, and digestion.

Body mass index (BMI) is an estimate of your body fat percentage based on your height and weight.  BMI is a tool for screening for weight categories that are associated with health concerns such as heart disease.  

Blood glucose is the main sugar found in your blood. It is a source of energy for your body, including your cells, tissues, and organs. During the digestion process, carbohydrates break down, releasing glucose. A hormone called insulin regulates glucose and moves it through the body. 

Calories are a unit of energy in food. Calories come from carbohydrates, fats, protein, and alcohol in food and drinks.

Carbohydrates are sugar molecules and one of the main types of nutrients in food and drinks. Your body breaks carbohydrates down into glucose. 

  • Dietary fiber is a type of complex carbohydrate that’s important for gut health. Fiber is found in plants like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Fiber makes you feel full faster and for a longer time. It also helps to lower cholesterol levels and can prevent constipation.
  • Sugar is a type of simple carbohydrate that tastes sweet. Your digestive system breaks down sugar into glucose, and your cells use the glucose for energy. Sugars can be found naturally in fruits, vegetables, milk, and milk products. They are also added to many foods and drinks during preparation or processing. Foods with added sugars have lots of calories but few nutrients, so aim to only eat these foods in moderation. 

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that’s found in all the cells in your body. Your body needs the right amounts of cholesterol to stay healthy. Your body makes all the cholesterol it needs, but there’s also cholesterol in foods that come from animals. High levels of cholesterol in the blood can increase your risk of heart disease.

  • HDL stands for high-density lipoproteins. It is also known as “good” cholesterol. HDL carries cholesterol from other parts of your body to your liver, where it can be flushed out of your body. Foods that contain healthy fats, such as fish oils, avocados, and nuts, can increase HDL cholesterol. 
  • LDL stands for low-density lipoproteins. It is also known as “bad” cholesterol. Too much LDL causes plaque (fatty deposits) to build up in your blood vessels, which can cause health problems. Foods that contain trans fats, saturated fats, and cholesterol can increase LDL. 

Dietary fats are a type of nutrient. You need a certain amount of fat in your diet—but not too much—to stay healthy. Fats give you energy, insulate your body to help keep you warm, and help your body absorb vitamins. Fat stored in the body can also be used for energy. Dietary fat also plays a major role in your cholesterol levels. Not all fats are the same, but they all have the same number of calories per serving. 

  • Saturated fat is a type of dietary fat that is found in animal products and some oils, including dairy products (like butter, cheese, and cream), coconut and palm oils, and some meats. Saturated fatty acids can raise blood cholesterol and the risk of heart disease.
  • Monounsaturated fat is a type of healthy dietary fat that is found in avocados, canola oil, nuts, olives and olive oil, and seeds. Replacing saturated fats with monounsaturated fats may help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. 
  • Polyunsaturated fat is a type of healthy dietary fat that is found in plant and animal foods such as salmon, vegetable oils, and some nuts and seeds. You need polyunsaturated fatty acids for proper brain function and cell growth, but since our bodies don’t make them, you need to get them from other sources. 
  • Trans fat is a type of dietary fat that is created when liquid oils like shortening are changed into solid fat. It may be found in crackers, cookies, and snack foods. Trans fat raises your LDL (bad) cholesterol and lowers your HDL (good) cholesterol.

Digestion is the process your body uses to break down food into nutrients. Your body uses these nutrients for energy, growth, and cell repair.

Electrolytes are minerals in your body―like sodium, magnesium, and chloride―that you get from the food you eat and the fluids you drink. When you are dehydrated, your body does not have enough fluid, nor does it have enough electrolytes.

  • Sodium is a mineral that helps your nerves and muscles function properly and keeps the right balance of fluids in your body. Table salt is a sodium compound made up of the minerals sodium and chloride. Diets high in sodium can raise your blood pressure.

Energy balance is the balance between the calories you get from eating and drinking (energy you take in) and the calories you use up through activity, growth, and daily living (energy you burn).

Glycemic index is a measure of how a carbohydrate-containing food raises your blood sugar.

Metabolism is the process that your body uses to get or make energy from the food you eat.

Protein is in every living cell in the body. Your body needs it to build and maintain bones, muscles, organs, skin, blood, and immune cells. Your body doesn't store protein, so you need to get it from the foods you eat, like meat, dairy products, nuts, and certain grains and beans. 

  • Amino acids are the molecules that make up protein. Some amino acids are made by the body, and others come from food. It’s important to get a balance of amino acids every day.  

Triglycerides are a type of fat found in your blood. Your body makes triglycerides or gets them from the foods you eat and from broken-down stored body fat. High levels of triglycerides may increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. 

Water intake is the amount of water we all need to drink. How much you need depends on your body type, your activity level, and the weather where you live. Your intake includes fluids that you drink and fluids that you get from food. 

Alternative accessible version (pdf)

MedlinePlus; National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute; National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive Kidney Diseases

Image credit: Getty Images

August 15, 2022

MedlinePlus healthy recipes: Bell pepper nachos

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Number of Servings: 8

Ingredients

  • 4 bell peppers
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 2 teaspoons seasoning (try a mixture-chili powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, pepper)
  • 2 cups cooked meat (chopped or shredded), beans or tofu
  • 1 cup reduced fat shredded cheese

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 °F.
  2. Wash bell peppers, remove seeds and cut into bite-sized pieces. Arrange pieces close together in a single layer on a large foil-lined baking sheet.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine salsa, seasonings and meat, beans or tofu. Spoon the mixture evenly over pepper pieces then top with cheese.
  4. Bake for 15 minutes, or until peppers are heated through and cheese is melted. Serve warm.
  5. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes:

  • For added flavor, top with chopped cilantro, green onions or black olives!

Find more healthy recipes online at MedlinePlus Healthy Recipes.

MedlinePlus

Image credit: iStock

May 03, 2022

Can you find your way around the National Institutes of Health?

An escape room developed for NIH interns can help you learn more about the institutes and centers

A resource from the National Library of Medicine asks just that question. Developed as an activity for the 7th Annual Science Day for Students at NIH, “Virtual Escape Room: An Intern’s First Day at NIH” introduces users to various NIH institutes, centers, and key figures. To get through the escape room, you’ll have to find secret codes and messages hidden among NIH resources like the National Library of Medicine’s digital gallery of women physicians. Learn more about NIH’s campus and research as well as NIH leaders’ musical talents.

You can enter the virtual escape room on-demand here: https://www.nlm.nih.gov/oet/exhibits/virtualescaperoom/ver-welcome.html

National Library of Medicine

April 14, 2022

MedlinePlus healthy recipes: Fish and spinach bake

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 package (10 ounces) frozen spinach, thawed
  • 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper
  • 1 pound fish filets (thawed if frozen)
  • 1 teaspoon Creole or Cajun seasoning blend
  • 1 large tomato, diced
  • 4 green onions, sliced

Directions

  1. Wash hands with soap and water.
  2. Preheat oven to 350 °F.
  3. Squeeze thawed spinach to remove most of the liquid. Spread in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  4. Arrange fish filets over spinach. Sprinkle with seasoning blend. Top fish with tomatoes and green onions.
  5. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake for 20 minutes more or until fish flakes easily.
  6. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes:

  • Try any kind of fish or even chicken.
  • Change the flavor by adding lemon juice or lemon pepper.
  • Try salsa instead of fresh tomato and green onion.

Find more healthy recipes online at MedlinePlus Healthy Recipes.

MedlinePlus

Image credit: iStock

March 24, 2022

From patients to celebrities, find it on NIH’s YouTube channel

Dr. Anthony Fauci, NIH’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) Director, and actress Julia Roberts talk about the COVID-19 outbreak.

Find hundreds of videos featuring everyone from the National Institutes of Health (NIH)'s COVID-19 researcher Kizzmekia S. Corbett, Ph.D., to actress Julia Roberts on the National Institutes of Health YouTube channel.

In addition to interviews, the channel’s video archives offer insight into the research that makes new treatments and cures. Learn how artificial heart valves work, tips for controlling chronic pain, and how to end stigma around addiction and substance abuse.

The channel also has the latest videos on the COVID-19 pandemic and how NIH research is responding to it.

December 14, 2021

Test your knowledge about supplement interactions

Do you know how your medications may interact with over-the-counter supplements? Find out by taking an informative, interactive quiz from the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

The quiz offers tips on how to read supplement labels on things like vitamins and other products. For instance, if you take a prescription drug and a supplement like St. John's wort or concentrated green tea, you could reduce or increase the amount of the drug in your body potentially making your medicine less effective or even causing harm. The quiz also gives advice about how supplements could interact with a surgical procedure.

It's important to discuss all the medicines and supplements you take with each one of your health care providers. That's because different doctors may prescribe different medications.

Source: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

Image credit: Adobe Stock

December 14, 2021

Learn about pelvic floor disorder treatments

Yoga bridge pose works the pelvic floor muscles.

What are pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) and how can you manage them? A new infographic from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development has tips that can help.

PFDs affect women’s pelvic organs, including the uterus, vagina, and bladder.  When the muscles that surround and support these organs are weak, leaks can occur when you cough, sneeze, or exert yourself.

 This can cause discomfort in the bladder or bowel area, as well as self-consciousness. Nearly a quarter of U.S. women may be affected by PFDs. The risk of developing a PFD can increase with age and the number of times a woman gives birth.

The infographic explains surgical and nonsurgical treatments for PFDs. Nonsurgical treatments can include maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, and doing exercises that strengthen pelvic floor muscles.

Image credit: Adobe Stock

December 14, 2021

Become a citizen scientist today

Are you curious about how our world works? Are you motivated to make a difference? You can be the eyes and ears for researchers by becoming a citizen scientist.

Researchers like those at the National Institutes of Health create a project, and then they give citizen scientists—or members of the public—steps to gather and share data. For example, researchers may want to track flu outbreaks and ask people to share their symptoms (without personal information or data).

The National Library of Medicine has a tutorial in English and Spanish where you can learn more about citizen science and how you can get started. There is no minimum age requirement, as kids under 13 can participate with an adult.

Image credit: Maria Shanina on Unsplash

September 21, 2021

MedlinePlus healthy recipes: Sautéed zucchini

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 2 medium zucchini, cut into 1/4-inch thick rounds or sticks

  • 2 teaspoons vegetable oil

  • 1 clove garlic minced or 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1/8 teaspoon each salt and pepper

  • 1/4 teaspoon oregano (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash hands with soap and water.

  2. In a medium skillet, heat oil over medium high heat (350 °F in an electric skillet).

  3. Add garlic and zucchini, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and oregano, if desired. Cook, stirring occasionally, until zucchini is soft, about 5 to 7 minutes.

  4. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Find more healthy recipes online at MedlinePlus Recipes.

Source: MedlinePlus

Image credit: Adobe Stock

September 21, 2021

Breathe better with NIH’s asthma management videos

Summer flowers and fall leaves: They look pretty, but they can trigger asthma. Asthma narrows your airways, which are the tubes that carry air into your lungs. A series of videos from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) can help you understand what happens during an asthma attack.

Watch these three videos to learn how to prevent attacks and the best ways to manage and control asthma. In addition to videos, you'll find asthma guides, tip sheets, and other resources through NHLBI's Learn More Breathe Better® program.

Work with your health care provider to develop an asthma action plan to help you take your medicines safely and avoid irritants that cause attacks.

You'll also learn what to do if your asthma symptoms are getting worse.

Image credit: Adobe Stock

September 21, 2021

NIH challenge offers up to $50,000 for insights on the road to recovery

NIDA seeks journey maps from those who deal with addiction

One in seven people have a drug or alcohol addiction. When navigating the healthcare system to get treatment, many people with a substance use disorder have an experience that's often challenging, confusing, and inconsistent.

That's why the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) is inviting anyone who has experience with a person's journey with substance use disorder to join the Mapping Patient Journeys in Drug Addiction Treatment challenge.

Participants will create a "journey map" to show the range of experiences people face on the road from addiction to recovery. NIDA will study the maps to learn more about a person's obstacles, interactions, and movement across the episodes of care in order to focus research efforts into alleviating these areas of difficulty.

The challenge offers up to three awards: $50,000 for first place, $30,000 for second place, and $20,000 for third place. Entries are due September 22.

Source: National Institute on Drug Abuse

Image credit: Adobe Stock

September 10, 2021

CDC's COVID-19 website has latest guidelines

To stay up to date on the latest COVID-19 guidelines, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)'s COVID-19 website.

The CDC has clear, simple information about how to get you and your family vaccinated, where you can find vaccine and testing sites near you, and who is eligible for the vaccine.

The CDC COVID-19 website also has information about the latest mask-wearing guidelines so that you can stay safe and keep others safe from COVID-19.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Image credit: Adobe Stock

July 06, 2021

Find clinical trials in your area

Updated daily, the National Library of Medicine's ClinicalTrials.gov gives vital access to information about public and private clinical trials on COVID-19 and other diseases and conditions. Clinical trials work to find the best ways to prevent, diagnose, or treat diseases and medical conditions.

ClinicalTrials.gov allows you to search by topic, location, or trials that are recruiting. The site hosts a database where people can search for trials of interest and researchers can discover other research, while also sharing their research. You don't have to register or provide personal identification to use the site.

Source: National Library of Medicine

Image credit: Adobe Stock

July 06, 2021

Get the facts from NIH's CEAL website

Misinformation around COVID-19 can contribute to people spreading and getting sick from the disease. That's why resources like those from the NIH Community Engagement Alliance Against COVID-19 Disparities (CEAL) website are critical.

The CEAL website offers fact sheets, videos, and infographics to address confusion around certain COVID-19 health and research questions. They can be used by health professionals, community leaders, or the public to help inform those around them. These resources, offered in English and Spanish, explain how vaccines work, why minority participation is important in clinical trials, and how contact tracing can help prevent the spread of the virus in your community.

By offering these resources and working with communities across the U.S., CEAL aims to improve COVID-19 outcomes in diverse communities around the U.S., especially those who have been more affected by COVID-19.

Source: NIH Community Engagement Alliance Against COVID-19 Disparities

Image credit: Adobe Stock

July 06, 2021

What's it like to work as a scientist?

Joshua Brown, M.D./Ph.D. student at the University of Maryland.

Thinking about a career in basic biomedical research? Look no further than the online resources from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS).

NIGMS shares stories of people doing cutting-edge research on its Being a Scientist webpage. These NIGMS-funded basic scientists seek to increase our understanding of biological processes and lay the foundation for advances in disease diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

The webpage includes magazines, blog posts, fact sheets, and videos for students, educators, and the general public.

Source: National Institute of General Medical Sciences 

Image credit: Marlayna Demond for UMBC

May 04, 2021

NIH makes finding an eye doctor easy

The National Eye Institute offers many free, online vision resources for the public.

Getting an eye exam is the only way to be sure your eyes are healthy. But when do you need to see a doctor? And should you see an optometrist or ophthalmologist?

Online resources from the National Eye Institute (NEI) will help you find the right kind of doctor to meet your eye care needs. Get tips on how to talk to your eye doctor, learn about dilated eye exams, find a doctor near you, and learn about the cost of an appointment.

Eye exams and glasses can be expensive, so NEI's website provides information on programs that may offer help in paying for eye care.

Source: National Eye Institute

Image credit: Adobe Stock

April 29, 2021

Learn how tissue engineering works in 60 seconds

A video still of lung structures developed through tissue engineering.

Have you ever wondered how human tissue is created in a lab and implanted into humans?

Check out the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering’s series of 60 Seconds of Science videos.

Each one-minute video offers a brief explanation and animation of a complex topic. Learn about the technology behind the common types of ultrasound, as well as PET, MRI, and CT scans. There are currently nine videos, so you can watch them all in under 10 minutes!

Source: National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering

Image credit: Adobe Stock

April 27, 2021

Follow NIH on Instagram!

NIH's Instagram page features updates from leadership, like Director Francis S. Collins, M.D., Ph.D., and breaking research news.

See striking images from under the microscope and learn about research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) on the NIH Instagram!

The page also features health tips, COVID-19 research updates, and information on upcoming live events featuring NIH leaders like Director Francis Collins, M.D., Ph.D. or National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Director Anthony Fauci, M.D.

Source: National Institutes of Health 

Image credit: Courtesy of National Institutes of Health

March 08, 2021

Sign up for NIH's Native American health newsletter

An e-newsletter from NIAMS can help American Indian and Alaska Native communities learn about their health needs.

American Indians and Alaska Natives are more likely to have conditions like heart disease, substance abuse, and cancer. An e-newsletter targeted to those communities can help people learn more about their specific health needs.

The "Honoring Health: Resources for American Indians and Alaska Natives" e-newsletter features a different health topic in each issue. Recent ones have focused on alcohol use disorders, COVID-19, and healthy aging. In the newsletters, which are produced by the National Institutes of Health in collaboration with the Indian Health Service and the Administration for Community Living's Administration on Aging, you can find health resources, upcoming events, and funding opportunities for researchers.

Sign up and learn more on the newsletter website.

Source: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases

Image credit: Adobe Stock

December 17, 2020

These fact sheets can help you learn about your genes

Fact sheets on NHGRI's website discuss genetics and genetic research.

Ever wonder how certain traits or conditions are passed down from one generation to another? Or why some people get sick from certain diseases while others don't? 

The National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) has answers. You can find a series of easy-to-understand fact sheets on NHGRI's website that help explain how genetic research works—and why it's so important. Genetic research studies how our genes build and maintain cells and pass genetic information to offspring.

The fact sheets cover topics like chromosomes, DNA, and genetic mapping. They can help teachers or parents explain complex topics to kids.

Source: National Human Genome Research Institute 

Image credit: National Human Genome Research Institute

November 24, 2020

Modernizing ClinicalTrials.gov

ClinicalTrials.gov has gathered feedback from users and contributors.

Being part of medical discovery through a clinical trial is an important and unique opportunity.

ClinicalTrials.gov is a library of clinical trials from around the world. The site hosts a database where people can search for trials of interest and researchers can discover other research while also sharing their research.

Currently, ClinicalTrials.gov is going through a multiyear modernization process to best meet the needs of its users. NLM has gathered feedback from users and contributors and will release further plans this winter.

Stay tuned for information by visiting ClinicalTrials.gov and following the National Library of Medicine on social media.

Source: National Library of Medicine

Image credit: Adobe Stock

October 29, 2020

Prepare for your doctor’s visit with this tip sheet

A tip sheet from the National Institute on Aging can help you make the most out of doctor's visits.

It's important to communicate well with your health care providers at any age. But when you're an older adult, it's even more critical.

To help, the National Institute on Aging (NIA) has an online infographic that offers five quick tips on making the most out of your doctor's visits. Tips include gathering a list of medications you're taking and any questions you have. Also, don't be afraid to ask your doctor to speak up or repeat themselves if you can't hear them well.

Visit NIA's website for digital and print versions of the infographic.

Source: National Institute on Aging

Image credit: Adobe Stock

September 22, 2020

Lasers could be key to tracking viruses

Using lasers, NIDDK researchers showed droplets of saliva as people spoke.

Lasers may light the way to how respiratory viruses spread from person to person.

Scientists at the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) found that people release thousands of saliva droplets per second when they’re talking. That’s important because those droplets, if infectious, could spread illnesses like COVID-19, the flu, or a cold.

Using a laser beam that crossed through the center of a very dark box, researchers were able to light up the droplets as people spoke into the box. They found that many of the smaller speech droplets could stay in the air for more than 10 minutes.

To see a video of the droplets, check out NIDDK’s YouTube page.

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

Image credit: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

September 17, 2020

High-Risk Pregnancy

NIH launches Spanish version of PregSource

PregSource helps NIH researchers better understand how women experience pregnancy.

Say hello—and hola—to the Spanish version of PregSource!

PregSource is an important research resource from the National Institutes of Health.

It helps researchers better understand how women experience pregnancy by gathering information directly from them. Topics include everything from how you're sleeping to tracking your morning sickness. The new Spanish version of PregSource will help researchers gather data from a more diverse audience.

Moms-to-be who are interested in contributing can answer confidential questions on the PregSource website. By participating, you'll get to track your pregnancy and help researchers improve care for mothers and babies.

By answering short questions weekly or daily, you'll have a complete record of your pregnancy journey and make a difference for future moms. 

Source: Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development

Image credit: Bongkarn Thanyakij from Pexels; NICHD

September 15, 2020

2020: The year of vision health

The National Eye Institute is raising awareness about eye health in 2020.

20/20 vision is the definition of good eyesight. So this year, 2020, is a perfect time to spread the word about healthy vision.

With its "More Than Meets the Eye 2020" campaign, the National Eye Institute wants to raise awareness about the importance of eye health.

You can read stories about real people living with low vision and download a guide on making the most out of doctor visits if you have glaucoma, among other useful information.

Join the conversation online by using the hashtag #morethan2020 on social media. 

Source: National Eye Institute

Image credit: Adobe Stock

September 03, 2020

Bite-sized research videos made just for you

Allosteric modulator? Zinc finger nuclease?

If these terms leave you scratching your head, you’re not alone. Science can be tricky to understand, but the National Institute of Health’s Intramural Research Program (IRP) has you covered.

The IRP is the largest biomedical research institution on earth and has more than 5,000 researchers working hard to improve human health. Get a taste of this research from SciBites videos.

They’re quick videos explaining complex science topics—like how our cells fight cancer and recover from injury—in straightforward ways.

All the videos are under two minutes long and feature the very researchers studying these topics.

Source: NIH Intramural Research Program

June 04, 2020

Easy-to-read drug facts from NIH

The Easy-to-Read Drug Facts website offers information on drug misuse, addiction, and treatment.

Finding reliable information about drug misuse and addiction can be a challenge.

But the National Institute on Drug Abuse makes it easier with Easy-to-Read Drug Facts. The online resource organizes useful information in many forms, including videos, health topics, and personal stories of people who have struggled with these issues.

Learn about common drugs that people misuse—like e-cigarettes, alcohol, marijuana, and pain killers—and what effects drug misuse can have, for example, impacts on families and kids.

The site also provides advice on treatment and recovery for people struggling or loved ones who want to help. All content is available in English and Spanish. 

Source: National Institute on Drug Abuse

Image credit: Adobe Stock

May 28, 2020

Learn about environmental health the fun way

What does a bee use to brush its hair? A honeycomb!

If you're a kid, or a kid at heart, the Kids Environment Kids Health website is a great resource for you. It has jokes, like this one, as well as engaging games, videos, and experiments. All the information is vetted by experts at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences.

Topics include everything from how pollution affects our health to recycling, and more. It even has lesson plans and other resources for K–12 teachers.

Source: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences

Image credit: Adobe Stock

May 26, 2020

Safe to Sleep: Online resources for SIDS

Did you know that blankets shouldn't be used in cribs for babies under 1 year old?

This is one of many tips that can help reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The condition happens when a baby younger than 1 year old dies without a clear cause.

To help raise awareness and educate caregivers about SIDS, the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) has developed a number of online resources. All are available on NICHD's Safe to Sleep® website and include up-to-date information reviewed by NIH researchers.

You can see a diagram of what a safe sleeping environment should look like or watch videos tailored to the type of caregiver, like breastfeeding moms or grandparents.

Source: Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development

Image credit: Adobe Stock

February 18, 2020

Students speak up about mental health

A national essay challenge encouraged students to address the challenges of stigma, fear, and improving mental health education and treatment, particularly in vulnerable populations

The National Institute of Mental Health and the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD), in collaboration with the Calvin J. Li Memorial Foundation, sponsored the contest and selected winners from more than 160 entries from high school students across the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

Take a look at the 12 winning and honorable mention essays on NIMHD's website.

Source: National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities

Image credit: Adobe Stock

February 17, 2020

3D printing for human organs and tissue

Bioengineers at Rice University are learning more about 3D printing for human organs.

It may sound like science fiction, but new research is studying how 3D printing (or bioprinting) organs and tissues may one day save lives.

With funding from NIH, scientists at Rice University are testing bioprinted vascular networks that mimic those in the distal human lungs. These networks are made of soft gels and have been tested with living cells.

You can see the vascularized air sacs up close in a new video released by the team earlier this year.

Though research is still in the early stages, 3D printing may one day allow doctors to create replacement organs for patients who need transplants.

 

 

Source: NIH Director's Blog

Image credit: Courtesy of Rice University

January 03, 2020

Updated nutrition labels on MedlinePlus

The new labels make it easier to identify calories, fat, and sugar

How many calories are in that?

MedlinePlus now includes updated Nutrition Fact labels on all of its Healthy Recipes, including the overnight oatmeal recipe on this page! The new label was finalized in 2016 by the Food and Drug Administration to make it easier to identify things like calories, fat, and sugar in packaged foods and drinks.

The new requirements, which are based on scientific information, also include an updated list of nutrients and added sugars. All packaged food must include the updated label by 2021.

Image credit: Adobe Stock

January 03, 2020

Recipe: Overnight oatmeal

Oatmeal can be a heart-healthy alternative to other quick breakfast foods or snacks. It's a good source of fiber, which helps you feel full, as well as key vitamins and minerals.

But if you don’t have time to make a batch during your busy day, do it before you go to sleep instead with this hearty recipe. For a grab-and-go breakfast, separate servings into small, portable containers and keep refrigerated. 

For more healthy recipes, check out Healthy Recipes on MedlinePlus.

Overnight Oatmeal

Prep time: 15 minutes 
Cook time: 6 hours 
Total time: 6 hours 15 minutes 
Number of Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 cup uncooked old fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 cup low-fat yogurt
  • 1/2 cup nonfat or 1% milk
  • 1/2 cup berries, fresh or frozen
  • 1/2 cup chopped apple (about 1/3 of a medium apple)

Directions

  1. In a medium bowl, mix oats, yogurt, and milk.
  2. Add the fruit now or add just before eating.
  3. Cover and refrigerate oatmeal mixture for 6-12 hours.
  4. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Source: MedlinePlus

Image credit: iStock

December 30, 2019

65 or older? Clinical trials need you

Clinical trials that help test future treatments depend on a diverse group of participants. This means people of different ages, sexes, races, backgrounds, and more. Participants ages 65 and older are especially key.

Many older adults have special health needs. The also react differently to certain drugs or need different doses. They’re also more likely to have age-related diseases like Alzheimer’s, cataracts, and arthritis.

The National Institute on Aging has a chart on the benefits of participating in clinical trials for older adults. Find more information about clinical trials and where to find one near you.

Source: National Institute on Aging: Clinical Trials and Older Participants

Image credit: National Institute on Aging

October 17, 2019

Teach your kids about eye health the fun way

What are eyelids for? Why can’t you see colors in the dark? 

How your eyes work can be a mystery, but the National Eye Institute has answers. The NEI for Kids website teaches kids—and people of any age—all about their eyes.

 Children can learn all about their vision, eye health, and safety through fun videos, animations, and quick tips. They can also print free learning materials.

August is Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month, so it’s a good time for kids and their families to learn more about eye health.

Image credit: Adobe Stock

September 18, 2019

Three minutes to a super summer smoothie

Looking for a quick, heart-healthy snack? Got three minutes?

Grab your blender. Throw in a cup of nonfat, plain yogurt; 6 strawberries; a cup of crushed pineapple (canned, with juice); a banana; and a few ice cubes.

Add a dash of vanilla extract if you like, and if you’re looking for an extra boost, toss in a few tablespoons of protein powder. Puree until smooth. Find a spot in the sun or shade, and enjoy!

For more healthy recipes, check out the recipes page on MedlinePlus.

Image credit: Adobe Stock

September 13, 2019

Test your stroke knowledge

NINDS’ Know Stroke initiative can teach about signs, symptoms, and risk factors.

Numbness. Confusion. Trouble seeing or walking. These are all signs of stroke, one of the leading causes of death and serious long-term disabilities.

An online quiz from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) can teach you more about signs, symptoms, and risk factors of stroke.

The quiz is part of NINDS' Know Stroke initiative, which has information in English and Spanish. Other resources include links to stroke clinical trials, a quick video, and toolkits for teachers.
 

Image credit: Adobe Stock

April 05, 2019

Social media corner: NIH hearts heart health

On Feb. 8, staff from the National Library of Medicine (NLM) joined together to raise awareness about heart health.

NLM Director Patricia Brennan, R.N., Ph.D., and about 70 staff members got their blood pumping during a walk on the NIH campus in Bethesda, Maryland. The group walk was part of the NIH-led #OurHearts campaign.

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Director Gary Gibbons, M.D., also participated. He encouraged staff to spread the #OurHearts message of heart health and support in families, communities, and beyond.

Source: Twitter

Image credit: Courtesy of NLM

April 05, 2019

Set healthy goals with NIDDK’s body weight planner

Understanding how many calories you need per day is tricky. NIH is here to help.

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases has an easy-to-use, online body weight planner.

Enter basic information—like your height, weight, and physical activity level. Then answer questions about your goal weight and desired changes in physical activity.

The planner tells you how many calories you should eat per day in order to meet your goal weight—and maintain it.

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

Image credit: Adobe Stock

April 05, 2019

Could llamas give us clues about the flu?

Researchers are exploring how these furry animals can help us better understand how to fight off the flu.

Why llamas? The South American animals have smaller antibodies (which protect against viruses) than humans. Because they’re smaller, they’re able to reach parts of the flu virus that bulkier human antibodies can’t.

Using llama antibodies in mice, researchers are testing how new gene therapies, specifically a “gene mist,” may fend off a range of flu viruses better than other methods.

NIH Director Francis Collins, M.D., Ph.D, discusses this early research in a post on his Director’s Blog. 

Source: NIH Director’s Blog

Image credit: Adobe Stock

January 14, 2019

Out with the cookies, in with the veggies!

As you take steps to eat healthier as the new year begins, (and hopefully all year-round) NIH is here to help.

Check out free heart-healthy recipes from NIH’s National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHBLI), which are low in saturated fat and sodium. They use small amounts of vegetable oil and feature lean meats, low-fat dairy, veggies, fruits, whole grains, beans, and nuts. 

From Caribbean casserole to tilapia with tomatoes, there are more than 180 dishes available, including desserts! You can access 40 recipes on MedlinePlus.gov in both Spanish and English. All 180 dishes are available on NHLBI’s website. 

Start your new year by eating healthy with fresh herbs, lots of spices, and NIH.

Source: Healthy Eating Recipes

Image credit: Adobe Stock

January 14, 2019

New MedlinePlus video explores how to counter opioid overdose

More than 115 people in the U.S. die every day after overdosing on opioids. One important tool for helping opioid overdose is naloxone, a drug that helps reverse the effects of an overdose.

A new animated video from MedlinePlus and the National Institute on Drug Abuse explains just how naloxone works in our bodies to counter the effects of opioid overdoses.

The video will be available in Spanish and English, and can be found on the National Library of Medicine’s YouTube channel.

Image credit: Courtesy of the National Library of Medicine

January 14, 2019

Social media corner: Basic research Nobel Prizes at NIH

Did you know the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) has supported 87 Nobel prize winners since it launched in 1962? You can read the full list of winners and learn facts about the Nobel prize on the institute’s website. NIGMS supports key basic research, which is conducted by scientists in labs and sets the stage for clinical research in patients.

Image credit: Adobe Stock

September 26, 2018

Look at NIH research funding in your area

Want to know how much NIH funding went to research institutions in your state this year? 

A website run by the National Library of Medicine, the Research Portfolio Online Reporting Tools (RePORT) website, provides quick access to data on NIH research from around the world.

You can filter by year, U.S. state or territory, congressional district, and institute. There’s even an interactive map. Visit NLM’s website to learn more. 

Image credit: iStock

September 26, 2018

How meditation may help pain

Can focusing on pain actually help suppress it? Maybe, say researchers in a new video called "Meditation: Addressing Pain" from the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH).

By concentrating on pain during mindfulness and meditation practices, we may be able to lessen our emotional responses to it.

This is according to Richard J. Davidson, Ph.D. He is the founder and director of the Center for Healthy Minds at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

In the video, which is on the NCCIH's YouTube channel, Dr. Davidson speaks to former NCCIH Director Josephine Briggs, Ph.D., and explains how our brains process pain and how researchers are working to better understand it.

Image credit: iStock

September 26, 2018

What’s new on MedlinePlus?

MedlinePlus offers information on symptoms, treatment, and prevention for more than 1,000 diseases and wellness issues. Now three more topics are available.

The newest topics on MedlinePlus are:

  • eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), a chronic disease of the esophagus
  • body lice (also called clothes lice), tiny insects that live and lay nits (lice eggs) on clothing
  • dislocated shoulder

Everyday health information is updated on MedlinePlus because we want to bring you the most factual, up-to-date information possible.

Image credit: Adobe Stock

July 14, 2018

7 tech breakthroughs that could change your health

An alcohol-monitoring tattoo? Glowing tumors? A flu vaccine patch?

Welcome to the future of medicine—funded by your National Institutes of Health (NIH).

A new video highlights seven groundbreaking technologies, which are funded by and for all Americans and NIH's National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering.

Image credit: Harvard University

July 14, 2018

How sound travels through our bodies

Have you ever wondered how sound waves turn into the noises we hear every day? The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders has answers.

In a two-and-a-half minute animated video, "Journey of Sound to the Brain," researchers show how sound travels from the ear to the brain, where it is interpreted and understood.

The video teaches about the deepest parts of the inner ear and shows how this process helps us communicate with the world around us.

Image credit: Adobe Stock

July 14, 2018

Stars step out for women’s heart health awareness

Go red for women’s heart health! Celebrities, designers, and survivors joined together for the American Heart Association’s (AHA) 2018 “Go Red for Women” red dress runway event in New York.

The February event is part of “The Heart Truth®” campaign, launched in 2002 by NIH’s National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and the AHA. The campaign brings awareness to heart disease in women. The disease is the number one killer of women in the U.S.

Image credit: Nichelle S. Lewis/NHLBI

April 24, 2018

Quit smoking with help from Smokefree.gov

If you’re looking to quit smoking, the National Cancer Institute’s Smokefree.gov online resources, information, and support can help. Create your own “quit plan,” download a free app, or sign up for a text message program to get 24/7 help.

Have a question you need an answer to quickly? Speak to a trained quit specialist at 1-800-QUIT-NOW or chat with them on the website using LiveHelp. Smokefree.gov is available in English and Spanish.

Image credit: Adobe Stock

April 24, 2018

Tox Town: Spot everyday health risks

What environmental health risks are hiding in your neighborhood? The National Library of Medicine’s Tox Town website provides animated scenes of different locations—like cities or coastal towns—and their environmental health concerns.

The website’s fun, animated format allows you to search by chemicals or location. Tox Town also provides resources for teachers and people interested in environmental health careers.

Image credit: National Library of Medicine

April 24, 2018

NIH’s DASH diet tops charts

U.S. News & World Report named the DASH eating plan the “best diet overall” for the eighth year in a row.

The diet, which was selected from a group of 40, was designed by NIH-sponsored researchers for treating high blood pressure. It can also help lower high cholesterol.

DASH stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. It emphasizes eating fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean protein, and fat-free or low-fat dairy products.

In addition to tying for first place in “best overall diet,” DASH ranked number one in the “healthy eating” and “heart disease prevention” categories.

Image credit: Adobe Stock

February 14, 2018

MedlinePlus unveils new cholesterol pages

Animation corner: Making resistant bacteria irresistible

Is it possible to make learning about bacteria fun? We’re trying.

MedlinePlus released a new animation video on resistant bacteria to go along with the article on page 8.

The engaging animation helps answer questions like: Who are these bad bugs? What can you do to prevent infections? How is NIH research combating this global problem?

To find the video, search “antimicrobial resistance + medlineplus” in YouTube. It’s located in the NLM YouTube Channel under the MedlinePlus playlist.

Image credit: Jeff Day

February 14, 2018

NIH MedlinePlus Magazine is now animated!

NIH MedlinePlus magazine is now on YouTube. Check out our bonus animated videos on medical topics featured in the magazine. The videos feature fun information that supplements our articles.

Our first animation is titled “Histamine: Friend or Foe…or Frenemy?” Why do our bodies make a chemical that causes allergies? Find out in this video.

We plan to feature more videos in the coming months. We’ll look at topics such as celiac disease and antibiotic-resistant infections. The videos break down medical conditions, provide interesting facts, and introduce NIH research.

You can find our animations on the NIH MedlinePlus magazine playlist within the NLM YouTube Channel. Search for “histamine” to see the first animation.

Please leave comments on the videos telling us what topics you’d like to see next.

Source: www.youtube.com/user/NLMNIH

October 26, 2017

Three new topics on MedlinePlus

MedlinePlus, your resource for trusted health information, hit the 1,000 topic mark this year. Now, it's added three more topics. Those include tanning, mosquito bites, and the risks of an inactive lifestyle.

Check out MedlinePlus' pages on these conditions and more. Each disease topic page links to information on symptoms, treatment options, diagnostics tests, medical journal articles, and latest news.

Image credit: Adobe Stock

October 15, 2017

ClinicalTrials.gov

Interested in joining a clinical trial but not sure where to start? ClinicalTrials, a service of NIH, allows you to search for studies by condition or disease, location, study phase, and more.

The database currently lists 249,566 studies with locations in all 50 states and in 201 countries. Of those, more than 40,000 studies are recruiting volunteers.

The listing of a study on ClinicalTrials.gov does not reflect endorsement by NIH. So make sure to talk with a trusted health care professional before volunteering for a study.

To see if a study is NIH-supported, make sure to select “NIH” under the “Funder Type” drop-down menu.

Image credit: Adoce Stock

October 15, 2017

Social media corner: Chemotherapy

Did you know that the development of chemotherapy happened at the NIH Clinical Center? Follow @NIH on Twitter to learn more cool facts and see the latest updates from NIH and its 27 institutes and centers.

Image credit: Adobe Stock

October 15, 2017

A peek into the past

Franklin D. Roosevelt

Ever wondered about important dates in NIH’s history? The NIH Almanac timeline goes all the way back to the 1800s and includes important dates throughout NIH’s history. What happened 80 years ago this month? The National Cancer Institute Act was signed into law by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt on July 23, 1937, establishing the National Cancer Institute (NCI) as part of NIH.

Image credit: United States Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division

July 14, 2017

Medical research 101

The beautiful brain

NIH’s YouTube Channel, NIHOD, recently featured a data visualization of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the human brain video. An MRI is a medical imaging procedure used to help examine the inside of the human body. This eye-catching video shows greater detail of the hippocampus, a brain region that helps you create new memories. The data visualization helps researchers map out entire brain-wide circuits, and provides a new, cool way to look at the human brain. 

Image credit: NIH

July 14, 2017

An inside look

NIH Director Francis Collins, M.D., Ph.D.

Ever want to pick the brain of NIH Director Francis Collins, M.D., Ph.D.? Look no further than the NIH Director’s Blog. Dr. Collins pens multiple updates a month on topics ranging from new findings to featured researchers and NIH events. 'Read Dr. Collins blog at NIH Director's Blog, where you can subscribe to the blog’s RSS feed, and also be sure to follow Dr. Collins on Twitter at @NIHDirector.

Image credit: NIH

July 14, 2017