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What happened in health news this week? | Health Smart

Here is a look at the top health headlines from the week.

YORK, Pa. —

Too much sitting could harm your heart even if you exercise

A new study found if you sit a lot and only do the minimum recommended levels of exercise daily, you could increase your risk for heart disease.  

Researchers found a person who sat an average of almost nine hours per day increased their heart aging. They defined "heart age" using two key heart health indicators, total cholesterol and body mass index. 

Researchers recommend those who sit a lot at work to try using a standing desk and get at least 30 minutes of vigorous exercise per day.

Taking fish oil supplements may help prevent cancers

A study out of the University of Georgia looked at data from more than 250,000 people, and it found participants with higher levels of omega-3s had lower rates of colon, stomach, lung and other digestive tract cancers. Participants with high omega-6 levels had lower rates of 14 different cancers, including brain, melanoma and bladder cancer.

Researchers did not factor in other cancer risk factors like body mass index, alcohol use or physical activity.

New study shows weight loss drugs may ease knee pain

A trial in the New England Journal of Medicine has found that weight loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy may help ease often debilitating knee pain and improve function.  

Those who got weekly injections saw a nearly 14% decrease in their body weight after 68 weeks. That weight loss meant a decrease in pain by about 42 points on a 100-point pain scale. 

Health experts say extra weight puts more stress on the knee joint, causing the cartilage to wear down more quickly. Doctors hope semaglutide could be an alternative to knee replacement surgery for those with obesity and knee arthritis. 

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