Boston clinicians say colorectal cancer is rising in younger adults and often shows up late. Specialists are expanding screening, trials and research to catch cases sooner.

Boston officials confirm H5 avian influenza in birds in the Emerald Necklace; risk to people is low but residents and pet owners should avoid sick or dead birds and report sightings.

Wastewater monitoring on Nantucket shows cocaine concentrations routinely topping national averages, with October and December spikes nearing 3,000 ng/L.

Baystate Health will stop prescribing puberty blockers and hormones for patients under 18 and will shift medication management to Transhealth amid federal CMS rulemaking.

Baystate Health cut 117 corporate roles, will outsource its equipment team and closed a Holyoke warehouse as it tightens operations amid reimbursement pressures.

Study reveals hair extensions contain hazardous chemicals linked to health risks, particularly for Black women, with most products unlisted on labels.

Massachusetts reports a seventh child death due to influenza, with the total flu-related deaths reaching 260 this season. Public health officials emphasize vaccination and pandemic-like precautions.

State data show six pediatric flu deaths this season and 228 adult fatalities through Jan. 31, with officials urging vaccination and prompt care.

State regulators approved Mass General Brigham's plan for a Cambridge ambulatory center to reduce long waits for colonoscopies and routine endoscopies.

Clinicians across Greater Boston say immigrant pregnant patients are missing prenatal and postpartum visits amid enforcement fears and federal policy shifts. Health centers warn missed care could mean worse outcomes for mothers and babies.

A voluntary recall of M&M's has been issued by Beacon Promotions Inc. due to mislabeling that omits allergen warnings for milk, soy, and peanuts. The recall affects promotional packs distributed in 20 states.

Massachusetts reports its sixth pediatric flu death and 187 adult deaths this season; hospitalizations have declined since mid-December. Health officials urge preventive measures.

The Kraft Family Blood Donor Center at Dana-Farber and Brigham & Women’s Hospital faces a critical blood shortage, affecting patient care. They urge local donors to act, as storms have exacerbated the deficit in blood and platelets.