Wellness in the News for February, 2026
Nine cancer studies in January!
Scientists find exercise rivals therapy for depression
Regular physical activity eases symptoms of depression about as effectively as psychological therapy, according to an updated Cochrane review. When researchers compared exercise with antidepressant medication, they found similar benefits, although the certainty of that evidence was lower.
To my mind, a life without exercise is a wasted life. If you need help establishing a regular exercise routine, email me. I am a trainer.
Sleep deprivation shortens your life
Sleep isn’t just about feeling rested—it is one of the strongest predictors of how long you will live. Researchers from the Oregon Health & Science University analyzing nationwide data found that insufficient sleep was more closely tied to shorter life expectancy than diet, exercise, or loneliness. The connection was consistent year after year and across most U.S. states. The takeaway is simple but powerful: getting seven to nine hours of sleep may be one of the best things you can do for long-term health. Using stimulants as a substitute is playing with fire.
Age does not stop nerve healing after spinal cord injury
A surprising study from the American Academy of Neurology shows that aging does not appear to slow the healing of nerves themselves, with older patients regaining strength and sensation at rates similar to younger people.
Not surprising to me. Recovery from injury and illness has nothing to do with age and everything to do with one's state of heath. Unfortunately, many seniors have hired doctors to "manage" their health problems, instead of working with a wellness coach to fix them.
A tiny eye implant that could restore sight
Scientists at the University of Southern California are launching a new trial to test a tiny stem cell implant that could restore vision in people with advanced dry macular degeneration. The hair-thin patch replaces damaged retinal cells responsible for sharp, central vision. Earlier studies showed the implant was safe and helped some patients see better. Researchers now hope it can deliver meaningful, lasting improvements in eyesight.
Future medical advances, amazing as they are, must be accompanied by the elimination of unhealthy habits, or there is no cure. Macular degeneration doesn't occur by accident.