5 Health Stories in Under 5: Week of October 19, 2025
Stay informed with our quick roundup of five important health stories patients need to know this week.
By
Lana Pine
| Published on October 27, 2025
2 min read
The Educated Patient’s Weekly 5 is your go-to recap of the top five patient-focused health stories you need to know. We highlight the latest research, treatment updates and real patient perspectives that are shaping health care today. Our mission is simple: to help you stay informed, feel empowered and take an active role in your health journey — because understanding your options and the latest developments can make all the difference.
A large global study found that once a population reaches a certain happiness threshold, higher levels of well-being are linked to fewer deaths from major chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes and cancer.
2. 8 in 10 Americans Struggle With Sleep — Here’s How to Break the Cycle
Sleep expert Christopher J. Allen, M.D., warns that overstimulation and reliance on social media “sleep hacks” are fueling America’s sleep crisis, and urges people to seek proper evaluation and care from trained clinicians.
3. It’s Never Too Late: Quitting Smoking May Slow Memory Decline
New research shows quitting smoking even in mid- or late life can slow long-term declines in memory and thinking skills, offering lasting brain-health benefits.
4. Checking Cholesterol Before Pregnancy Could Help Protect Mom’s Heart
A new study links high cholesterol before pregnancy to increased pregnancy complications and higher rates of heart problems in the five years after childbirth.
5. Grip Strength May Hold the Key to Healthier Aging
A 13-year study of over 93,000 adults found that stronger handgrip strength is associated with lower obesity-related health risks and a reduced chance of early death.
