Young children often suck on their thumbs. It's perfectly normal. But some parents worry about it.
...more
With childhood obesity on the rise, should parents worry about the weight of their babies?
...more
Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland doesn't make enough thyroid hormone. The condition is more common in adults. But it’s the most common thyroid disorder in children. Not enough thyroid hormone leads to signs, such as slow growth, lack of activity, and poor performance in school.
...more
Graves disease is an autoimmune disease. With this disease, antibodies cause the thyroid gland to make too much thyroid hormone. This is known as hyperthyroidism. Excess thyroid hormone in the bloodstream leads to the body's metabolism being too active. It can cause problems such as weight loss, nervousness, fast heartbeat, tiredness, and other issues. It’s an ongoing (chronic) condition that needs lifelong treatment.
...more
A closer look at the structure of the breast.
...more
Breast development happens in certain stages during a woman's life: first before birth, and again at puberty and later during the childbearing years. Changes also happen to the breasts during menstruation and when a woman reaches menopause.
...more
Teen dating violence is worrisome. But it's not inevitable. Here's how you and your teen can prevent possibly unsafe situations and reduce the risk for problems.
...more
The male reproductive anatomy includes the bladder, epididymis, penis, scrotum, and prostate gland.
...more
Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder. A child with bulimia overeats or binges uncontrollably. This overeating may be followed by self-induced throwing up (purging).
...more
Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder. It is a form of self-starvation. Children and teens with this health problem have a distorted body image. They think they weigh too much.
...more
Major depression goes beyond the day's normal ups and downs. It involves a teen's body, mood, and thoughts. It can affect and disrupt eating, sleeping, or thinking patterns.
...more
Ninety percent of new smokers are children and teenagers. In many cases, they are replacing the smokers who quit or died prematurely from a smoking-related disease.
...more
Read on for tips to help keep your children from smoking.
...more
Methamphetamine (meth) is a highly addictive drug. It is related to the legal stimulant amphetamine, but has stronger effects.
...more
Cocaine use ranges from once in a while to nonstop. There is no safe way to use the drug.
...more