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A study published in the medical journal Neurology suggests that LGBTQ+ individuals may have a higher risk of negative brain health outcomes, such as dementia and late-life depression, compared to cisgender and straight individuals. However, the study does not prove that sexual or gender diversity causes neurological diseases, only that there is an association. The researchers analyzed data from over 393,000 people and found that LGBTQ+ individuals were 15% more likely to develop negative brain health outcomes. Possible reasons for these disparities include discrimination, stress, access to healthcare, and policy and legal factors. The study also found that transgender women had a higher risk of stroke compared to cisgender individuals. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study published in the medical journal Neurology has found that certain medications used to treat primary progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) may not slow the progression of disability. The study looked at two infusion therapies, rituximab and ocrelizumab, which target a protein called CD20 found on white blood cells. The researchers found no difference in the amount of time before disability worsened between those taking the medications and those not receiving treatment. The study suggests that there should be a constant evaluation of MS therapies to determine if the benefits outweigh the risks for people with primary progressive MS. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study published in the medical journal Neurology suggests that following the MIND diet, which combines elements of the Mediterranean and DASH diets, may lower the risk of cognitive impairment later in life. The study involved over 14,000 participants and found that those who closely adhered to the MIND diet had a 4% decreased risk of cognitive impairment compared to those who did not. The diet emphasizes green leafy vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, poultry, fish, beans, nuts, and berries, while limiting red meat, fast food, and sweets. However, it is important to note that these findings only show an association and do not prove that the MIND diet prevents cognitive impairment. Further research is needed to explore the impact of the diet on different populations and genders. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study published in the medical journal Neurology suggests that a class of drugs used to treat diabetes, known as sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, may be associated with a lower risk of dementia and Parkinson's disease. The study, conducted in South Korea, compared individuals with type 2 diabetes who were taking SGLT2 inhibitors to those taking other oral diabetes drugs. The results showed that those taking SGLT2 inhibitors had a 20% reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease, a 20% reduced risk of Parkinson's disease, and a 30% reduced risk of vascular dementia. However, more research is needed to validate these findings and determine the long-term effects. [Extracted from the article]

A study published in the medical journal Neurology suggests that individuals who have had a stroke may experience abnormal sleep patterns. The study, which involved 39,559 participants, found that people who had a stroke were more likely to sleep too much or too little compared to those without a prior stroke. However, the study does not prove that stroke causes abnormal sleep, only that there is an association. The researchers recommend further exploration of the links between stroke and sleep duration, as well as the impact of sleep duration on stroke outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study published in the medical journal Neurology examined the association between cadmium exposure and thinking and memory skills. The study found that there was no overall association between cadmium levels and cognitive impairment in the entire group. However, when looking at Black and white participants separately, the study found that white people with high levels of cadmium were more likely to develop cognitive impairment, while no such association was found in Black people. The study does not prove that cadmium causes memory problems in white people, but it does show an association. Cadmium is a highly toxic heavy metal that enters the body through cigarette smoking, breathing polluted air, and food. The study suggests that reducing exposure to cadmium, such as through implementing policies and regulations for air pollution and drinking water, or changing behaviors like quitting smoking, may be beneficial. [Extracted from the article]

A new study published in the medical journal Neurology suggests that a drug called ubrogepant may be effective in preventing migraines when taken at the first signs of an attack. The study focused on individuals who could predict the onset of a migraine based on early symptoms. Ubrogepant is a calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor antagonist that inhibits a protein involved in the migraine process. The study found that participants who took ubrogepant reported fewer limitations on their daily activities compared to those who took a placebo. However, the study's findings only apply to individuals with reliable warning symptoms. [Extracted from the article]

A new study published in the medical journal Neurology has found no link between migraine and the risk of developing Parkinson's disease in female participants. The study followed 39,312 female participants with an average age of 55 for an average of 22 years. After adjusting for other factors, researchers found that people with migraine were no more likely to develop Parkinson's disease than those without migraine. However, the study only involved female health professionals who were primarily white, so further research is needed to determine if the results apply to other groups. [Extracted from the article]

A meta-analysis published in the medical journal Neurology suggests that people aged 60 and older with untreated high blood pressure may have an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease compared to those who have been or are being treated for high blood pressure, as well as those without the condition. The study, which looked at 31,250 participants from 14 different countries, found that untreated high blood pressure was associated with a 36% increased risk of Alzheimer's disease. However, it is important to note that this association does not prove that untreated high blood pressure causes Alzheimer's disease. The research highlights the importance of controlling blood pressure through medication to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. [Extracted from the article]

The article published in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, offers new insights into the risk of dementia in Parkinson's disease. Topics include the reassessment of earlier studies that estimated high dementia rates in Parkinson's patients, the potential for a longer window to intervene and prevent cognitive decline, and the analysis of data from large studies to provide risk estimates.

A study published in the medical journal Neurology found that high diastolic blood pressure was associated with a slightly higher likelihood of experiencing migraines in female participants. However, no increased risk was found between other cardiovascular risk factors and migraines. The study involved 7,266 participants, both male and female, with a median age of 67 years. The researchers suggest that future studies should focus on younger age groups and longer follow-up periods to further investigate the relationship between migraines and cardiovascular risk factors. [Extracted from the article]

A study published in the medical journal Neurology suggests that individuals with high levels of body fat in their belly or arms may have a higher risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Conversely, individuals with high muscle strength were found to be less likely to develop these diseases. The study followed over 400,000 participants for an average of nine years and found that those with high levels of belly fat were 13% more likely to develop these diseases, while those with high levels of arm fat were 18% more likely. It is important to note that the study primarily included white participants from the United Kingdom, so the results may not be applicable to other populations. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study published in the medical journal Neurology examined the effectiveness and safety of the MS medications ofatumumab and teriflunomide across different racial and ethnic groups. The study found that ofatumumab was effective and safe for treating relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) in diverse populations, including Black and African American, Hispanic and Latino, and Asian individuals. The study involved 1,882 participants and found that the proportion of people treated with ofatumumab who had no disease activity was consistent among all race and ethnicity groups. The study highlights the importance of enrolling racially and ethnically diverse groups in research to better inform treatment decisions. [Extracted from the article]

A study published in the journal Neurology Clinical Practice found that uninsured Hispanic individuals are less likely to receive care after a stroke compared to other racial and ethnic groups. The study analyzed data from 1.1 million stroke patients and found that uninsured Hispanic individuals had the lowest chance of receiving additional care after a stroke. Disparities in care were also influenced by insurance status and geographic location. The study highlights the need for targeted efforts to improve access to care for uninsured individuals, particularly Hispanic individuals, and those in specific regions. [Extracted from the article]

The American Academy of Neurology (AAN) has announced the appointment of Sarah Song, MD, MPH, FAAN, as the new editor-in-chief of Brain & Life(R), a patient and caregiver magazine, website, and podcast. Dr. Song, an associate professor at Rush University Medical Center, will succeed Dr. Orly Avitzur and will begin her role on January 1, 2025. Brain & Life provides reliable information on brain health through tips, research, and personal stories. Dr. Song, a Fellow of the American Academy of Neurology, aims to bridge the gap of misinformation and provide accurate health knowledge to readers. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study published in the medical journal Neurology explores the prediction of cognitive decline in individuals with early Alzheimer's disease. The researchers developed models to predict the rate of decline in thinking and memory skills based on test scores. The study included 961 people with mild cognitive impairment and 651 with mild dementia, all of whom had amyloid-beta plaques in their brains. The models were able to predict the rate of decline, but also showed some uncertainty in these predictions. The study suggests that these models could be used to help physicians answer questions about quality of life and daily functioning for individuals with cognitive problems. [Extracted from the article]

A study published in the medical journal Neurology suggests that higher levels of inflammation in early adulthood may be linked to memory and thinking problems in middle age. The study examined levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) in the blood, which increases when there is inflammation in the body. However, the study does not prove that higher levels of CRP cause dementia, only that there is an association. Chronic inflammation, which can be caused by autoimmune disorders or physical stress, is considered unhealthy. Ways to reduce chronic inflammation include regular exercise, following an anti-inflammatory diet, and getting enough sleep. The study involved 2,364 participants aged 24 to 58 who were followed for 18 years. Participants were divided into three groups based on their inflammation levels: consistently higher, moderate or increasing, and lower stable. After adjusting for factors such as age and physical activity, researchers found that those in the higher and moderate groups were more likely to have poor performance in processing speed and executive function. The study suggests that inflammation may play a role in cognitive aging and that brain health should be targeted in middle age. However, the study did not assess other conditions associated with elevated inflammation levels. [Extracted from the article]

The American Academy of Neurology and the American Heart Association have awarded the first-ever Ralph L. Sacco Scholarships for Brain Health to two researchers, Patrick Devlin, Ph.D., of Houston, Texas, and Cyprien Rivier, M.D., M.Sc., of New Haven, Connecticut. Each researcher will receive a $150,000 two-year scholarship to support their scientific research in brain health. The scholarships are made possible by a bequest from the late Ralph L. Sacco, who was the only neurologist to have served as president of both organizations. Devlin's research focuses on the after-effects of stroke and the aging process of immune cells in the brain, while Rivier's research explores the impact of biological age on the brain and the risk of developing dementia and stroke. [Extracted from the article]

A new study published in the medical journal Neurology suggests that a drug used to prevent migraines may also be effective in treating rebound headaches in people with chronic migraines. The study involved 755 participants with chronic migraines, and those who took the drug, called atogepant, had fewer monthly migraine and headache days and used less pain medication compared to those who took a placebo. The drug is a calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor antagonist, which plays a role in starting the migraine process. However, more research is needed to evaluate the long-term safety and effectiveness of atogepant. [Extracted from the article]

A new study published in the medical journal Neurology suggests that moderate levels of physical activity and fitness may be associated with a reduced risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) later in life. However, this association was only found in male participants and not in female participants. ALS is a rare neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle movement loss and paralysis. The study analyzed data from 373,696 people in Norway over an average of 27 years and found that men with moderate to high levels of physical activity had a 29% to 41% lower risk of ALS compared to those with the lowest level of physical activity. However, more research is needed to understand the connection between ALS and exercise, considering sex differences and higher levels of physical activity. [Extracted from the article]

A study published in the medical journal Neurology suggests that certain drugs used to treat urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate may be associated with a reduced risk of dementia with Lewy bodies. Dementia with Lewy bodies is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects memory, thinking, movement, and can cause hallucinations. The study found that drugs like terazosin, doxazosin, and alfuzosin, which activate an enzyme important for energy production in brain cells, were associated with a lower risk of developing dementia with Lewy bodies compared to other prostate drugs. However, more research is needed to establish a cause-and-effect relationship. [Extracted from the article]

A study published in the medical journal Neurology has found that young adults who experience prolonged depressive symptoms may have worse thinking and memory skills in middle age. The study also revealed that depressive symptoms were more common among Black adults compared to white adults. The research involved 3,117 participants who were evaluated for depressive symptoms every five years for 20 years. The study suggests that prolonged exposure to elevated depressive symptoms in young adulthood can have a negative impact on cognitive function in middle age, particularly for Black adults. [Extracted from the article]

A study published in the medical journal Neurology suggests that individuals who give birth to infants with low birth weight may be more likely to experience memory and thinking problems later in life. The study, which involved 15,323 female participants, found that the effect on cognitive skills was equivalent to one to two years of aging for those with low-birth-weight deliveries. However, the study only shows an association and does not prove that low birth weight causes memory and thinking problems. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and explore potential interventions to promote brain health in individuals with a history of low-birth-weight deliveries. It is important to note that the study primarily included non-Hispanic white participants, so the results may not be generalizable to other populations. [Extracted from the article]

A new study published in the medical journal Neurology suggests that certain drugs may decrease the risk of a bleeding stroke caused by a ruptured brain aneurysm. The study found that four drugs, including lisinopril, simvastatin, metformin, and tamsulosin, were associated with a decreased risk of a ruptured brain aneurysm. However, the study only shows an association and does not prove that these drugs actually reduce the risk. Further research is needed to investigate these associations and determine the effectiveness of these drugs in preventing hemorrhagic stroke. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study published in the medical journal Neurology has found that individuals who report early memory problems, as well as their partners who also suspect memory problems, have higher levels of tau tangles in the brain. Tau tangles are a biomarker associated with Alzheimer's disease. The study involved 675 adults without cognitive impairment, and participants and their partners completed a questionnaire to assess subjective cognitive decline. The findings suggest that asking older individuals with elevated Alzheimer's disease biomarkers about subjective cognitive decline may be valuable for early detection. However, it is important to note that the study had limitations, including a predominantly white and highly educated sample, and future research should include more diverse participants. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study published in the medical journal Neurology found that newer epilepsy medications taken during pregnancy do not affect the creativity of children. However, the study did find that higher concentrations of these medications in the mother's blood during the third trimester were associated with poorer performance in tests of children's executive function. The study involved 251 children of female participants with epilepsy and 73 children of female participants without the disease. The researchers suggest that dose adjustments should be made to find a balance between controlling seizures and minimizing negative effects on the developing child. [Extracted from the article]

A study published in the medical journal Neurology has found that consuming more ultra-processed foods, such as soft drinks, chips, and cookies, is associated with a higher risk of cognitive decline and stroke. However, the study does not prove that these foods directly cause these health issues, only that there is an association. Ultra-processed foods are high in added sugar, fat, and salt, and low in protein and fiber. The study also found that the association between ultra-processed foods and stroke was greater among Black participants. Further research is needed to understand the specific components of these foods that contribute to these effects. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study published in the medical journal Neurology examined the factors that lead older adults to stop driving. The study involved 283 participants with an average age of 72 who drove at least once a week. The researchers found that female participants, people who developed cognitive impairment, and people who performed worse on cognitive tests were more likely to stop driving. However, the amount of biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease in the brain and spinal fluid did not predict stopping driving. The study supports the recommendations of the American Academy of Neurology's 2010 guideline that individuals with mild cognitive impairment should be counseled to no longer drive. [Extracted from the article]

A new guideline has been issued to help neurologists and other clinicians determine the best antiseizure medications for people with epilepsy who may become pregnant. The guideline, developed by the American Academy of Neurology, the American Epilepsy Society, and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, provides recommendations on the effects of antiseizure medications and folic acid supplementation on malformations at birth and the development of children during pregnancy. It suggests using certain medications, such as lamotrigine, levetiracetam, or oxcarbazepine, to minimize the risk of major birth defects, while avoiding others like valproic acid. The guideline also recommends taking folic acid daily before and during pregnancy to decrease the risk of neural tube defects. [Extracted from the article]

Neuropathy, a condition that causes pain and numbness in the feet and hands, is very common and often goes undiagnosed, according to a study published in the medical journal Neurology. The study involved 169 participants from an outpatient clinic in Flint, Michigan, with 73% of them having neuropathy. Of those with neuropathy, 75% had not been previously diagnosed. The study also found that people with metabolic syndrome were more than four times more likely to have neuropathy, and there was no relationship between low income and neuropathy. The study highlights the need for improved diagnosis and management of neuropathy. [Extracted from the article]

A study published in the medical journal Neurology reveals that children and teens may experience nonmotor seizures for an extended period before being seen in an emergency department for a more obvious seizure. These nonmotor seizures, which have no noticeable movement, can include symptoms such as nausea, visual distortions, feelings of deja vu, or smelling odd odors. The study found that a history of nonmotor seizures was often missed in emergency care, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis of epilepsy is crucial to prevent injury and death, as medications can reduce these risks. [Extracted from the article]

A study published in the medical journal Neurology found that immigrants to Canada who have spent a larger proportion of their lives in the country have a higher risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS) compared to those who have spent less time there. However, the study does not prove that living in Canada causes MS, only that there is an association. The study involved 1.5 million immigrants who arrived in Canada between 1985 and 2003 and were followed until 2016. Factors such as lifestyle, environmental factors, and social determinants of health may contribute to the increased risk. [Extracted from the article]

A study published in the journal Neurology Clinical Practice suggests that people who take acid-reducing drugs, such as proton pump inhibitors and antacids, may have a higher risk of experiencing migraines and severe headaches. However, the study only shows an association and does not prove that these drugs cause migraines. Acid reflux, which can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a condition where stomach acid flows into the esophagus. The researchers recommend further investigation into the potential implications of acid-reducing drugs and their association with migraines. It is important for individuals taking these medications to consult with their doctors about whether they should continue. [Extracted from the article]

A study published in the medical journal Neurology suggests that engaging in cognitively stimulating work throughout one's career may reduce the risk of memory and thinking problems later in life. The study, conducted in Norway and involving 7,000 participants, found that individuals with jobs that required more complex thinking had a lower risk of mild cognitive impairment after the age of 70. The study highlights the potential benefits of cognitive stimulation in maintaining cognitive function in old age, although it does not prove a causal relationship. Further research is needed to identify specific tasks that are most beneficial for maintaining thinking and memory skills. [Extracted from the article]

A study published in the medical journal Neurology suggests that climate change may be linked to an increase in death and disability from stroke worldwide. The study found that non-optimal temperatures, both higher and lower than the temperatures associated with the lowest death rates, were increasingly associated with stroke-related death and disability over a period of three decades. The study does not prove that climate change causes stroke, but it highlights an association. The researchers also noted that lower temperatures can constrict blood vessels and increase blood pressure, while higher temperatures can cause dehydration and affect cholesterol levels, both of which are risk factors for stroke. The study emphasizes the need for further research to understand the impact of temperature change on stroke and to develop effective health policies to address potential causes of climate change. [Extracted from the article]

Earlier menopause combined with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease is associated with an increased risk of cognitive problems later in life, according to a study published in Neurology. The study involved 8,360 female participants and 8,360 male participants, and found that women who experienced earlier menopause and had higher cardiovascular risk had lower cognitive scores three years later. The study suggests that age at menopause and cardiovascular risk should be considered when developing prevention strategies for cognitive decline. However, more research is needed over longer periods of time to fully understand the relationship between menopause, cardiovascular risk, and cognitive decline. [Extracted from the article]

Artificial intelligence (AI) may be used by neurologists in the future to locate the site of a stroke in the brain. A study published in Neurology Clinical Practice examined the use of a large language model called GPT-4 to process text from health histories and neurologic examinations to identify brain lesions. The study found that GPT-4 was able to accurately locate lesions in many participants' brains, determining the side of the brain and the specific brain region. While not yet ready for clinical use, this technology has the potential to reduce healthcare disparities and improve access to neurologic care in underserved areas. [Extracted from the article]

A new study published in the medical journal Neurology has found that astronauts may experience migraine and tension-type headaches during long-haul space flights. The study involved 24 astronauts from various space agencies and found that 92% of them experienced headaches during their time in space, compared to only 38% experiencing headaches prior to the flight. The researchers suggest that changes in gravity and increased pressure within the skull may be contributing factors. However, it is important to note that this study only shows an association and further research is needed to understand the underlying causes of space headaches. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study published in the medical journal Neurology suggests that middle-aged veterans who have experienced concussions from explosive devices may have biomarkers in their spinal fluid that are similar to those found in people with Alzheimer's disease. The study involved 51 veterans who had experienced concussions and 85 veterans and civilians who had not. The results showed that those with blast concussions had lower levels of amyloid-beta in their spinal fluid, which is associated with the early stages of Alzheimer's disease. However, further research is needed to determine if these veterans are at an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. [Extracted from the article]

A preliminary study presented at the American Academy of Neurology's 76th Annual Meeting suggests that certain medications for multiple sclerosis (MS) called monoclonal antibodies, taken while breastfeeding, may not have a negative impact on a child's development during the first three years of life. The study examined four monoclonal antibodies for MS: natalizumab, ocrelizumab, rituximab, and ofatumumab. Researchers found no differences in the health or development of infants exposed to these medications through breastfeeding compared to infants not exposed. However, the study's results for the third year of life are less meaningful due to a limited follow-up period. [Extracted from the article]

A study published in the medical journal Neurology found that the risk of stroke associated with sleep apnea may vary between Black and white individuals. The study revealed that white individuals diagnosed with sleep apnea, regardless of whether they used a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, had an increased risk of stroke. However, this increased risk was not observed in Black individuals meeting the same criteria. Interestingly, the study also found that Black individuals who used CPAP machines had a reduced risk of stroke compared to those who did not use the machines. Further research is needed to understand these differences and the impact of other diseases on stroke risk. [Extracted from the article]

A preliminary study presented at the American Academy of Neurology's 76th Annual Meeting suggests that people who experience headaches after concussions may have higher levels of iron in certain areas of the brain, indicating brain cell injury. The study involved 60 individuals with post-traumatic headache due to mild traumatic brain injury, matched with 60 individuals without concussions or headaches. Brain scans revealed that those with concussions and headaches had higher levels of iron accumulation in specific brain regions. The study's findings may contribute to a better understanding of how the brain responds and recovers from concussions. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study published in the medical journal Neurology has found that Black people are half as likely as white people to be evaluated for genetic testing for neurologic conditions such as dementia, Parkinson's disease, and epilepsy. The study analyzed data from 128,440 people in the Philadelphia area and found that Black individuals were 51% less likely to be evaluated for genetic testing even after adjusting for factors such as ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and insurance status. The study suggests that there are disparities in the accessibility of genetic testing, highlighting the need for culturally sensitive genetic counseling services and policies to make testing more affordable and expand insurance coverage. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study presented at the American Academy of Neurology's Annual Meeting suggests that people with essential tremor, a movement disorder characterized by involuntary shaking, may have a three times higher risk of developing dementia compared to the general population. The study involved 222 participants with essential tremor, who were followed for an average of five years. The researchers found that 19% of participants had or developed dementia during the study, and each year an average of 12% of people diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment went on to develop dementia. While the majority of people with essential tremor will not develop dementia, this study highlights the need for physicians to educate patients and their families about the increased risk. [Extracted from the article]

A preliminary study presented at the American Academy of Neurology's 76th Annual Meeting suggests that individuals with sleep apnea may be more likely to experience memory or thinking problems. The study, which involved 4,257 participants, found that those with sleep apnea symptoms had greater odds of reporting memory or thinking problems compared to those without sleep apnea symptoms. However, the study did not determine whether sleep apnea directly causes cognitive decline. The findings emphasize the importance of early screening for sleep apnea and highlight the availability of effective treatments such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines. [Extracted from the article]

A preliminary study presented at the American Academy of Neurology's 76th Annual Meeting suggests that pesticides and herbicides used in farming may be linked to Parkinson's disease in the Rocky Mountain and Great Plains region of the United States. The study analyzed Medicare records from 2009 and found that the pesticides simazine, atrazine, and lindane had the strongest relationship with Parkinson's disease. People living in counties with the highest exposure to simazine were 36% more likely to have Parkinson's disease compared to those with the lowest exposure. The study highlights the need for further research to understand the relationship between pesticides and Parkinson's disease and to reduce the risk of the disease by lowering pesticide levels. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study published in the medical journal Neurology suggests that for individuals with drug-resistant epilepsy, having a trained seizure dog companion may help reduce the frequency of seizures. The study followed 25 adults with severe epilepsy who had not responded to traditional treatments. Participants reported an average of 31% fewer seizures when partnered with a seizure dog, with some experiencing a 50-100% reduction. However, the study also noted that not everyone may benefit from this partnership, and further research is needed to determine who can benefit most from working with seizure dogs. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study published in the medical journal Neurology has found that irregular meals, such as skipping breakfast, are associated with an increased risk of frequent headaches in children and teens. The study, which included nearly 5 million participants aged five to 17, also found that substance use, specifically electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), was linked to frequent headaches in those aged 12 to 17. Participants who regularly ate breakfast and dinner with their family had a lower risk of frequent headaches, and those who used e-cigarettes daily had double the odds of experiencing frequent headaches. The study suggests that lifestyle interventions, such as regular meals and addressing substance abuse, may help reduce the occurrence of headaches in young people. [Extracted from the article]

A preliminary study presented at the American Academy of Neurology's 76th Annual Meeting suggests that social factors such as education, neighborhood, and employment may influence whether individuals with stroke receive treatment with clot-busting drugs. The study, which focused on people with ischemic stroke, found that factors like race, insurance status, and social determinants of health impacted access to this crucial treatment. The study involved 63,983 participants in Texas, and researchers discovered that those with the least disadvantage were more likely to receive clot-busting drugs. Disparities were also observed based on race, ethnicity, insurance coverage, and location. The study highlights the need to address social factors to improve equity in stroke care and recovery. [Extracted from the article]

A study published in the medical journal Neurology has found that people with higher exposure to traffic-related air pollution are more likely to have high amounts of amyloid plaques in their brains, which are associated with Alzheimer's disease. The study, conducted by researchers at Emory University, examined the brain tissue of 224 people who had agreed to donate their brains after death. The study does not prove that air pollution causes Alzheimer's, but it does show an association. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind this link. [Extracted from the article]