A group of scientists studying pregnancy across six different mammals—from humans to marsupials—uncovered how certain cells at the mother-baby boundary have been working together for over 100 million years. By mapping gene activity in these cells, they found that pregnancy isn’t just a battle between mother and fetus, but often a carefully coordinated partnership. These ancient cell interactions, including hormone production and nutrient sharing, evolved to support longer, more complex pregnancies and may help explain why human pregnancy works the way it does today.

Researchers testing urine from 2- to 4-year-olds in four U.S. states uncovered 96 different chemicals, many of them unmonitored and linked to hormone and brain disruption. Legacy toxins like triclosan are slowly declining, yet replacements such as DINCH plasticizer and modern pesticides are rising. Toddlers—especially the youngest, later-born, and those from minority groups—often carried higher levels than their own mothers. Scientists urge expanded biomonitoring and stricter regulations before these invisible pollutants derail early development.

Teen vaping is changing fast — and not in a good way. A large national study found that more adolescents are vaping THC, CBD, and especially synthetic cannabinoids, which are often unregulated and far more dangerous. Even more troubling, many teens don’t know what’s in their vape pens at all. Researchers also found that girls are now more likely than boys to vape these substances. As these mysterious and risky chemicals gain popularity, scientists are sounding the alarm about the urgent need for better education, regulation, and awareness.

Teens are being misled by cannabis edibles dressed up like health foods. Bright colors, fruit imagery, and words like vegan make these products look fun, natural, and safe even when they re not. A WSU study warns that this could increase the risk of underage use and urges new packaging rules based on what actually appeals to teens.

With summer temperatures rising, health officials are reminding everyone to take precautions against heat-related illness. High heat and humidity make it harder for the body to cool itself, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Teens, athletes, young children, and people with health conditions are especially at risk.

To stay safe, drink plenty of water, wear lightweight clothing, and avoid outdoor activity during peak heat hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Spend time in air-conditioned places when possible, and never leave people or pets in parked cars. Staying informed and prepared can prevent serious health problems.

Teens might finally have a good reason to sleep in on weekends within limits. A new study reveals that teenagers who get up to two extra hours of sleep on weekends show fewer anxiety symptoms than those who don t. But go beyond that sweet spot, and symptoms can actually increase.

A growing number of teens are rethinking the traditional college path. According to a new survey from American Student Assistance, only 45 percent of students in grades 7–12 expect to attend a two- or four-year college, down from 73 percent in 2018. Meanwhile, interest in nondegree options like trade schools, apprenticeships, and “boot camps” has increased significantly, rising to 38 percent.

School counselors say it’s important for students to explore all available pathways after high school. Despite a lingering stigma around non-college options, many teens are focused on finding the best route to a successful career. Planning early and identifying personal strengths can help students make informed decisions about their futures.

Teens are diving into intense skincare routines inspired by TikTok, often slathering on six or more products daily, sometimes over ten in just minutes, chasing beauty ideals that favor lighter, flawless skin. But new research warns this digital trend comes at a high cost: irritation, allergies, and deep-seated social pressures around race and beauty.

Making a discovery with the potential for innovative applications in pharmaceutical development, a microbiology student has found a long sought-after fungus that produces effects similar to the semisynthetic drug LSD, which is used to treat conditions like depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and addiction.

A new report from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) shows that most sunscreens on store shelves aren’t as safe or effective as you’d think. Out of over 2,200 products tested, fewer than 500 actually protect your skin the way they should. Some even include sketchy ingredients that could mess with your hormones or increase health risks.

The report calls out outdated rules and sneaky marketing that make it hard to know what’s safe. If you want to protect your skin (and avoid sunburns or worse), stick to lotions or sticks instead of sprays, go for fragrance-free options, and look for the EWG Verified® label. And don’t forget: Reapply often, wear a hat and sunglasses, and try to stay out of direct sun from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The timing and consistency of your daily activity might be associated with improved cardiorespiratory fitness and walking efficiency.

Source: Nemours Foundation

Becoming a new mother brings more than just joyful chaos it delivers a profound and persistent sleep shock. A new study reveals that first-time moms lose not just total sleep, but crucial uninterrupted sleep, especially in the first week postpartum. While overall sleep gradually returns to normal, mothers continue to wake frequently, drastically disrupting sleep structure and leaving them exhausted. This fragmented sleep may even contribute to postpartum health issues, making continuity of rest not just total hours a vital target for interventions.

A new study suggests that boys who become overweight in their early teens risk damaging the genes of their future children, increasing their chances of developing asthma, obesity and low lung function.

A new study reveals a concerning decline in self-reported mental health among mothers in the United States between 2016 and 2023. The study also found modest but measurable declines in self-reported physical health during the same period.

This spring, teens in Minnesota are stepping up for the planet through Green Crew, a youth-led conservation group that’s rapidly growing in both size and impact. Over 2,000 volunteers are expected to take part in their projects this year—from removing invasive species to building platforms to monitor lake health—all led by students like you.

Founded just three years ago, Green Crew is now launching new chapters across Minnesota and receiving requests from teens nationwide who want to bring the model to their communities. As climate concerns grow, these projects offer not just action but hope, proving that your generation is leading the way toward a more sustainable future.

Using a novel lab method they developed, researchers have identified nine molecules in the blood that were elevated in teens diagnosed with depression. These molecules also predicted how symptoms might progress over time. The findings of the clinical study could pave the way for earlier detection, before symptoms worsen and become hard to treat.

There's good news for people with migraine who take common drugs before or during pregnancy -- a new study found no increase in neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and ADHD in their children. The study looked at drugs used for migraine attacks called triptans.

Researchers have shown that gonadotrophs, cells in the pituitary gland with a key role in puberty and reproduction, come from two different populations, with the majority produced after birth rather than in the embryo, as previously thought.

Researchers demonstrated unprecedented rates of recovery for spinal cord injuries. Individuals with incomplete spinal cord injury safely received a combination of stimulation of a nerve in the neck with progressive, individualized rehabilitation. This approach, called closed-loop vagus nerve stimulation (CLV), produced meaningful improvements in arm and hand function in these individuals.