The majority of adolescents are sleep deprived, and the consequences are far-reaching—from cognitive impairments and poor academic performance to mood disorders and increased risk of long-term chronic conditions. According to CDC data, more than 75% of high school students fail to get the recommended 8 hours of sleep on school nights. The trend is especially pronounced among female students, who report higher rates of insufficient sleep than male students. As clinicians, we have a critical role in understanding the multilayered causes of adolescent sleep deprivation and guiding families toward effective strategies and interventions.

When we talk about obesity treatment, the conversation tends to center around food, weight, and willpower. But what if that’s just scratching the surface?

In a recent AFMC TV episode, bariatric surgeon Dr. Sam Bledsoe shared insights that go beyond the numbers on a scale. He talked about treatments like bariatric surgery and GLP-1 medications—but he also emphasized that obesity is rarely just about what you're eating. It’s also about what’s eating at you.

Today’s teens are experimenting with a wide range of substances, primarily driven by a combination of social pressures, mental health challenges, and the pervasive influence of technology. For healthcare providers and clinicians dedicated to the well-being of children, understanding these trends is crucial for effective intervention and support.

Beating cancer is more than just surviving—it’s about thriving. It’s about embracing a second chance at life. For many cancer survivors, the battle doesn’t end with remission. The long-term effects of treatment, including an increased risk of heart disease, make post-cancer care just as crucial as the initial fight. But there’s some encouraging news: something as simple as walking can profoundly impact survivors’ well-being.

Food brings people together. Whether you gather around the dinner table at Thanksgiving, invite friends over for a home-cooked meal, or experiment with a new recipe, food is a social catalyst. We literally can’t live without it! Nutrition has also been proven to be a critical part of patient care, providing physiological benefits and creating a sense of comfort. A piping hot bowl of chicken noodle soup tastes like heaven when you have a cold.

Nonetheless, nutrition is often overlooked in the clinical setting and in patient education. A balanced diet is typically not the priority of a care plan. Yet, the food is medicine movement has taken off in recent years, raising awareness about the important role food and nutrition have in care management.

Getting kids to brush and floss twice a day can feel as impossible as teaching them microchemistry. They may be teething, and it hurts to brush. They may not want to get ready for bed. They may not grasp why it’s important. But don’t give up. Teaching children to brush and floss early will benefit their oral health and teach them good habits that prevent cavities and tooth decay.