Is it safe to smoke weed while pregnant?

Over the last decade, there’s been a rise in cannabis-use during pregnancy in order to combat severe morning sickness. However, a new study in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention shows that the psychoactive compounds in weed can cross the placental barrier. This exposure can interfere with the fetal brain and lead to cancers of the central nervous system. (Duke University)

The best defense against disease may start with your teeth

Recent commentary published in JAMA Internal Medicine argues that tooth brushing can prevent hospital-acquired pneumonia. The mouth is home to countless bacteria that can enter the bloodstream, respiratory tract, and even heart valves. Managing your oral health is a simple and effective strategy to block potential infections. (Yale School of Medicine)

Sorry kids, homework is here to stay

While there’s long been debates on the effectiveness of take-home work for students, Dr. Joyce Epstein is tipping the scales. She’s a professor in the Johns Hopkins School of Education and believes that homework is essential – as long as teachers hand out innovative and interactive assignments. The extra work promotes family engagement and reinforcement of the topics learned. (Johns Hopkins University)

The post Medical Notes: Why Kids Need Homework, the Immune Benefits of Brushing Your Teeth, and Is THC a Safe Cure for Morning Sickness? appeared first on Radio Health Journal.