What do you think of when you see olive oil in your pantry? You may already have known that olive oil is full of antioxidants and that it helps promote good cholestoral in your body, but you probably didn’t know it can help cure an earache or even polish your furniture. Well, it can and more. Learn about eight surprising uses for olive oil you never knew.

Louisiana vehicle safety laws have gotten a makeover. One requires all occupants in a vehicle to wear seatbelts and another requires motorists to provide bicyclists at least 3 feet of clearances when passing them on the road. Get details about the new laws, including fines and penalties.

Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that almost 40 percent of people infected with HIV are unaware of their condition until it develops into AIDS. In Louisiana, six parishes are among 72 counties across the country with the highest rate of people living with HIV or AIDS. Early detection of the disease is important because it allows for more effective treatment options. Watch the video above for advice about getting tested and visit this page to enter your zip code to find HIV testing locations in your part of the state.

Summer is just barely underway, yet Louisiana residents have already endured extremely high temperatures. Such severe weather conditions can create a major threat of heat-related illnesses caused by heat stroke. Discover the warning signs of heat stroke as well as several suggestions for ensuring summer safety despite record-breaking temperatures.

The number of children diagnosed with type-2 diabetes is gradually increasing, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Medical experts advise that Hispanic, African American, and American Indian adolescents are particularly at risk. While some critics blame changes in the healthcare system, many healthcare officials testify that these outcomes are the result of an unhealthy culture. Children who consume high calorie foods and rarely exercise are increasing their likelihood of developing type-2 diabetes. Learn more about helping educate children on the benefits of healthy lifestyles.

According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the second most deadly form of cancer for American males. A new study conducted at the Louisiana State University Health and Sciences Center in Shreveport found that green tea may actually hinder the development of prostate cancer. Read why many doctors and scientists are optimistic about the effects of green tea on prostate cancer.

As the cost of medical care continues to rise in the United States, more and more Americans are implementing personalized healthcare plans and managing their own medical expenses. There are several financial tactics for lower health costs without sacrificing quality care, but being informed is crucial to receiving these benefits. Read strategies from CNN Money.com and learn how to survive the rising cost of medical care.

The Louisiana Public Health Institute (LPHI) and the Primary Care Access and Stabilization Grant program (PCASG), with support from the Baptist Community Ministries Foundation, recently launched a new initiative to help match metro New Orleans residents with quality, affordable primary healthcare services.  A media campaign is currently running to promote a central number and website designed to help individuals and their families locate needed services.  To learn more about the PCASG grant program, click here.  To find a quality, primary healthcare center in the New Orleans area that matches your needs, visit www.gnocommunity.org or call 504-872-0750.

1 in 4 people in Louisiana will contract some form of hepatitis (ABC) in their lifetime, but a vaccine can prevent hepatitis A and B. The Office of Public Health, the Louisiana Community AIDS Partnership and the Louisiana Public Health Institute have teamed up to offer free hepatitis testing, vaccinations and referrals for treatment options on Thursday, June 25th, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in New Orleans, Baton Rouge and Shreveport. Find participating locations.

Everyone knows to wear sunscreen at the beach, but serious sun damage can also occur in less predictable situations. Since skin cancer is responsible for nearly fifty percent of all cancers reported in the United States, it pays to be alert. According to the article, the American Cancer Society finds that a large majority of skin cancers come from direct UV exposure. Damage can occur when you think you’re safe. Discover several misconceptions about safe sun exposure that could actually be causing you harm.