Why you should wash new clothes before wearing; signs that you are aging well; effective leadership in health care; plus other stories with Vanderbilt Health sources

July 2, 2026 - 19:56

You might be tempted to tear the tags off a new shirt and wear it out of the store, but experts say you should pause. Jami Miller, a professor of clinical dermatology, and David Gaston, a professor of pathology, microbiology and immunology, warn that new clothes can carry hidden troublemakers. Dyes, chemicals, mold and bacteria are all potential contaminants lurking in the fabric. A quick wash before the first wear can help prevent skin irritation and other issues.

In other health news, Parul Goyal, an associate professor of clinical medicine, shared signs that indicate you are aging well. These include maintaining physical strength, staying socially engaged and adapting to change with resilience.

Effective leadership in health care starts with listening, according to Tae Kon Kim, an assistant professor of medicine. In a recent interview, he emphasized that leaders must prioritize communication and empathy to build strong teams.

Wes Ely, a professor of medicine and critical care, discussed the dangers of ICU delirium, a condition that can have long-term effects on patients. Meanwhile, Romney Humphries, vice chair and executive medical director of clinical services, highlighted alarming new data from the CDC showing an increase in a gene that makes "nightmare bacteria" harder to treat.

William Schaffner, a professor of preventive medicine, provided insight on Ebola in a piece that was widely shared across the U.S. Stacie Dusetzina, a professor of health policy, noted that Medicare will soon cover weight-loss drugs, a major shift in policy.

Courtney Schadt, an associate professor of dermatology, warned about tanning safety and dangerous fads circulating on social media. And Amanda Peltier, a professor of neurology, discussed the link between head trauma and ALS following the diagnosis of former Titans running back Chris Johnson.