Here's some of HealthDay's top stories for Thursday, July 22:
Black patients have more complications than whites, even when treated at same hospital. For years, experts have blamed poorer outcomes for Black American patients on differences between hospitals. But new research finds rates of dangerous complications for Black patients exceed those of whites -- even when treated on the same wards. Read more
Will this Olympics be even more stressful for athletes? In a summer Olympics like never before, athletes already under enormous pressure are being asked to deal with COVID testing and a lack of fans in the stands. How might that affect performance? Read more
Two-dose Pfizer vaccine gives great protection against Delta. A new study should reassure millions of Americans who've gotten the Pfizer vaccine: Two doses provide 88% protection against the COVID Delta variant. But protection fell sharply for those with only one dose. Read more
Biden says COVID vaccines could gain full approval soon. America's three COVID-19 vaccines are currently being used under an FDA emergency authorization -- leaving some people to question their safety and avoid immunization. But President Joe Biden said Wednesday that full approval may arrive soon. Read more
Drug makers reach $26 billion deal on opioid lawsuits. Between 1999 and 2019, over 500,000 U.S. lives were lost to opioid painkiller overdose, and many blame drug companies' aggressive marketing for these tragedies. On Wednesday, four pharmaceutical giants reached a tentative settlement with states to settle opioid-linked lawsuits. Read more
Roller coaster rides shake up migraine research. Scientists tracking the brain activity of 40 roller coaster riders -- half who had a history of migraines, half who didn't -- say key differences seen during the rides could help further research into the headaches. Read more
Want to avoid sleep apnea? Get off the sofa. The nighttime disturbances of sleep apnea plague millions, and new research finds a 'couch potato' lifestyle raises people's risk. The link remained even when researchers accounted for weight. Read more
