Wellness

Awaji, Japan — Looking to sow the seeds of serenity at the office? A recent study from the University of Hyogo suggests that simply adding a small plant to your workspace and occasionally tending to it may soothe the effects of stress.

Menomonee Falls, WI — Are you concerned about catching the flu? If so, you’re far from alone. Results of a recent survey show that 3 out of 5 people in the United States are “extremely” or “quite” concerned about contracting the flu virus this year – the highest level over the past 11 years.

Wuhan, China — Do you regularly nap for extended periods or sleep longer than most people? If so, you may be at increased risk for stroke, say researchers at Huazhong University of Science and Technology.

Boston — Nearly half of U.S. adults will qualify as obese by 2030, while one-quarter will contend with severe obesity, researchers at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health project.

Bethesda, MD — Alcohol-related deaths in the United States more than doubled over a recent 19-year period, with the fatality rate for females jumping 85%, results of a recent study from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism show.

Itasca, IL — Evidence-based prevention programs that address prescription opioid misuse among young people are needed, say researchers at the University of Michigan and the National Safety Council, whose recent study showed that about 1 out of 10 young adults and 1 out of 20 adolescents have misused prescription opioids.

Triangle Park, NC — Use of permanent hair dye or chemical hair straighteners may increase women’s risk of breast cancer – and more so with each treatment, researchers at the National Institutes of Health and the University of North Carolina caution.

Quebec City, Quebec — Working more than 40 hours a week can increase your risk of both typical high blood pressure and masked hypertension – defined as a blood pressure reading that’s normal during a doctor’s office visit but high at home or elsewhere, results of a recent study by researchers in Canada show.

Barcelona, Spain — Do you live in a noisy neighborhood or city? If so, you may be 30% more likely to suffer a more serious stroke, results of a recent study out of Spain show.

Philadelphia — Women, do you regularly eat dinner close to bedtime? If so, you may be at greater risk of cardiovascular disease, the American Heart Association warns.