Columbia University Irving Medical Center

04/17/2026

Research has shown that Black mothers and moms-to-be face disparities in prenatal and postpartum care due to variations in health care quality, implicit bias, and underlying medical conditions.

In recognition of Black Maternal Health Week, physicians like Dr. Janice Aubey at Columbia highlight ways patients can take charge of their health before, during, and after pregnancy.

Black mothers face health disparities. Dr. Janice Aubey discusses systemic issues, risk factors, and recommendations for better Black maternal health. Learn

04/17/2026

You get home with new clothes and it’s tempting to put them away or wear them right away, but don’t skip the wash. Columbia dermatologist Dr. Donald Belsito warns that lice, other pests, and bacteria can sometimes be transmitted from trying on garments in stores.

A recent study even found lead in children’s clothing

04/16/2026

It’s officially tick season and Columbia researcher Rafal Tokarz is predicting a bad one. He urges people to rely on trusted sources for tick removal tips: methods like burning them off aren’t safe, effective, or recommended.

Experts are expecting one of the worst seasons yet for ticks and the diseases they spread.

04/15/2026

In March 2026, The Lancet retracted a 1977 article claiming talcum powder was safe, despite evidence to the contrary. Decades later, a conflict of interest uncovered by Columbia historians who brought new clarity to the issue.

The journal retracted an unsigned 1977 commentary claiming that talcum powder poses no serious health risks, despite robust contemporaneous scientific evidence to the contrary.

04/14/2026

“Fibermaxxing” is trending and encouraging people to hit or slightly exceed daily fiber goals with foods like veggies, whole grains, beans, nuts, seeds, and fruit.

Fiber deserves as much attention as protein for gut, heart, blood sugar, and weight health, says Columbia dietitian Jamie Leskowitz.

Fibermaxxing is trending, but most people still fall short on fiber. Learn how to boost your intake for better gut, heart, and metabolic health without overdoing it.

04/13/2026

Wearables like smartwatches and rings are booming—nearly 1 in 3 Americans use them to track health. They can build healthy habits and flag issues but can also cause confusion if data isn’t understood, says Jennifer Haythe. Columbia cardiologists, including Drs. Jennifer Haythe, Isaac George and Hirad Yarmohammadi, share how to use them wisely.

Overwhelmed by health data? Columbia cardiologists explain how wearables work, what to track, and when to see a doctor.

04/10/2026

A story of hope: Jeff Vierstra, living with an ultra-rare form of ALS, is thriving on an experimental therapy under the care of Columbia neurologist Dr. Neil Shneider. Through his research and work with the n-Lorem Foundation, patients with ultra-rare ALS mutations can access personalized therapies that may extend survival via the Silence ALS program.

"CBS Saturday Morning" looks at an experimental treatment for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or Lou Gehrig's disease, that is bringing hope to some patients suffering from the neurodegenerative disease. To inquire about possible participation in Silence ALS, an initiative to develop individualized g...

04/09/2026

More people than ever are being exposed to gambling, making it a normalized part of watching sports. Columbia Psychiatry's Dr. Nasir Naqvi calls it a “looming public health crisis,” largely affecting men.

He says people with co-occuring psychiatric, or substance use disorders, high impulsivity, or family histories of addiction are especially vulnerable.

What once required a trip to a casino is now available with a few taps on a smartphone, as Americans increasingly place sports bets anytime and anywhere.

04/09/2026

Research means bringing medical strategies to farming challenges. Columbia researchers are collaborating with Texas A&M poultry scientists to determine if far-UVC technology, designed to stop the spread of viruses among people, can also work in agriculture.

Research Means .

Learn more: https://columbiamed.link/4slgSS3

04/08/2026

A new era in valve care: Doctors at Columbia/NYP are among the first in the U.S. to offer a newly FDA-approved transcatheter device for high-risk patients with severe aortic regurgitation—bringing a minimally invasive option to those who can’t undergo open-heart surgery.

A newly approved JenaValve Trilogy system allows doctors to treat severe aortic regurgitation with a minimally invasive TAVR procedure, offering a new option for patients at high surgical risk.

04/07/2026

Nearly 800,000 knee replacement procedures are performed each year in the U.S. alone, yet most implants last only 15–20 years.

Now, researchers at Columbia are working to change that. With support from ARPA-H, they’re developing a biological total knee implant made from stem cells and biodegradable materials—an innovation that could one day replace traditional metal and plastic devices.

Learn more: https://columbiamed.link/4sjzx0E
NY Times article: https://columbiamed.link/4cu3R3I

04/06/2026

Aging at home isn’t just about independence, it’s about thriving. Occupational therapy helps older adults stay safe, active, and engaged in daily life. With decades of experience, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons' Phyllis Simon shares why prevention and the right support can make all the difference.

Occupational therapy helps older adults stay independent by supporting daily activities, home safety, and overall well-being. Early, preventive care can improve quality of life and aging at home.