Being overweight or obese ‘a risk factor’ for ovarian cancer: According to a new study, women who are overweight or obese are more likely to develop ovarian cancer. “To reach their findings, the research team reviewed 25 studies involving 4 million women. Of these, 16,000 had ovarian cancer. The researchers found that for every 5 additional body mass index (BMI) units, there was a 6% increase in the risk of developing ovarian cancer.” Prior research has linked extra weight to other cancers, including breast, colorectal and uterine cancers. “Now, ovarian cancer can be added to the list, meaning women can make lifestyle changes to reduce their chances of developing the disease.” 

Traffic pollution exposure may alter heart structure: Here’s something else to stew about while you’re in traffic: “Exposure to high levels of traffic pollution may alter the structure of a person’s heart.” A new study from the University of Washington reported that high amounts of car traffic pollution were associated with changes in the heart’s right ventricle, which could increase heart disease risk. In the study, researchers used MRI scans to look at the hearts of 3,896 people and also measured levels of nitrous dioxide outside the subjects’ homes. They found that people with higher nitrous oxide exposure tended to have larger right ventricles. “While the study does not confirm that traffic pollution caused these heart changes, the researchers believe their work adds to numerous earlier studies surrounding this association.”