Obese women who become pregnant face many challenges, but researchers have found that a little help can go a long way.

Weight loss surgery has been proving successful for many people. However, one type of weight loss surgery, called gastric bypass, has been slightly more successful for a certain race.

Some research has shown that those who regularly drink or smoke are less likely to take their cholesterol medications. But people with a different unhealthy lifestyle factor do seem to take the medications meant to lower cholesterol and improve their health.

Cigarette smoking and diabetes are associated with a higher risk of pancreatic cancer. Now another risk factor for this cancer has been confirmed.

A variety of pregnancy complications can increase the risks of childbirth and pregnancy for women. Gestational diabetes is one of these.

Parents play a crucial part in keeping their children healthy. For mothers, that influence starts when their baby is in the womb.

With obstructive sleep apnea, breathing pauses during sleep. The condition, which is tied to obesity, can lead to serious health problems. Weight loss, however, may lower the risk for some of these health problems.

Bacteria aren't just foreign invaders that make us sick. We also hold healthy bacteria within our bodies. Hosting a diverse collection of this good bacteria in the gut may depend on more than diet.

The impact of being overweight has far reaching health implications — implications that may be taking a toll at an earlier age.

For the obese, weight loss surgery—which reduces the stomach to a small pouch—has been shown to improve patient health in many ways. The procedure may even help prevent cancer.