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Artificial intelligence continues to permeate our every day lives - from the way we search ("Hey Google, what's the weather for today?") to how we do our makeup. But what if I told you it could help detect breast cancer, too? AI has been integrated into healthcare since the 1950s, but took off in the early 2000s thanks to the emergence of deep learning, which teaches machines to think and learn like humans. Now take that ability and map it onto breast cancer detection and you have AI mammography - a newer technology being introduced into clinics around the country, offering radiologists an extra pair of eyes for breast imaging analysis. "Mammograms are imperfect. We know that we miss cancers," says Rachel Brem, MD, director of breast imaging and intervention and professor of radiology at George Washington University Medical Center. AI mammography can help eliminate some of the mistakes that lead to these misses, leading to earlier detection and treatment, she tells PS. The downsides? AI mammography is not covered by insurance. Plus, some experts, like Monique Gary, DO, a breast surgical oncologist in Bucks Country, PA, worry that the resource (like most AI) is capable of perpetuating bias. Ahead, both docs weigh in on the pros and cons of AI mammography, who it benefits, and whether it's worth the extra cost. How Does AI Mammography Work? AI mammography works in tandem with your standard mammogram process in which a machine, designed to analyze breast tissue, takes a x-ray images of your breast. After these images are captured, a radiologist will analyze them for any abnormalities, which is a naturally tricky process. "The reason why mammograms are challenging in general is because mammograms are a density-based study," says Dr. Gary. "Calcifications are dense, they show up white; tumors are dense, they show up white; young women who have dense breast tissue, that too shows up white," Dr. Gary tells PS. Both experts liken it to looking up at a cloudy sky, looking for certain clouds. "There's no contrast and you don't have that blue sky in between to pick out a specific cloud," Dr. Brem explains. AI mammography can offer a clearer picture. It is "trained or validated by looking at hundreds of 1000s of thousands of mammograms to detect patterns that could be concerning," Dr. Gary explains. And it can do so at a faster, and potentially more accurate, pace. Plus, the computer is learning from every single case. "So it's not like you write an algorithm, you know the formula, and it uses that formula. Every case it learns more and better," Dr Brem says. That said, "your AI is only as good as what it's trained on," Dr. Gary says. In other words, AI should be trained on a diverse population: candidates of different ages (especially considering the rising incidences of cancer among young adults); with different breast types (e.g. fatty breasts, dense breasts, and those with scar tissue); and of different races and ethnicities (Black women have a breast cancer mortality rate that is 40 percent higher than their white counterparts). "I think there's a deliberate effort to to make sure that AI will be beneficial for all women - I don't think we're there yet," Dr. Gary says. In particular, she says she has seen a concerted effort to recruit more Black candidates in the research and machine learning. But, she adds, "I think we're rolling out with it, despite the fact that most of it is still validated on on on white Americans and Europeans." Who Is AI Mammography Good For? AI mammography can be good for everyone, but particularly those at a disadvantage when it comes to care and diagnosis. For example, in all comers, standard mammography is about 85 to 90 percent accurate. But in women with dense breasts, that number can drop to as low as 30 percent, per Yale Medicine. Adding AI mammography to the mix can help bridge the gap, by offering a more discerning eye. Those who have microcalcifications - or calcium deposits that appear as small white specks, but could signal cancer - may also benefit from AI mammography. The resource can also make a difference in certain communities where the quality of mammography isn't as robust. This includes underserved communities, like the Black community, as well as the military or veterans affairs, where general radiologists are reading mammograms and not those who specialize in breast imaging, Dr. Brem says. "We know that if you have subspecialized radiologists reading [mammograms], we can find more cancers and earlier cancers. But if you give a general radiologist a mammogram with AI, they can function at the same level as a subspecialized radiologist," she tells PS. How Much Does AI Mammography Cost? Insurance does not cover AI assisted mammography. There are some clinics like GW that perform AI mammography on all mammograms free of charge, but for the most part, if you want an AI mammogram you'll have to come out of pocket. "An AI mammogram could cost anywhere from $40 to $100 more," says Dr. Gary, which she considers a health equity issue. Those who come from a large family or a low income may have trouble meeting those costs, and you run the risk of harming the same communities who could really use it. "I think that we have to be careful to democratize innovation and technology to help people who need it the most," Dr. Gary says. While there are potential upsides to AI mammograms, that's not to say that there's any reason to hold off on getting a standard mammogram. "It's much more important to get a mammogram without AI," Dr. Brem says, especially when the benefits of the AI mammography are just surfacing. "It's not the standard of care. And it's still very much experimental," Dr. Gary says. Alexis Jones is the senior health and fitness editor at PS. Her areas of expertise include women's health and fitness, mental health, racial and ethnic disparities in healthcare, and chronic conditions. Prior to joining PS, she was the senior editor at Health magazine. Her other bylines can be found at Women's Health, Prevention, Marie Claire, and more.

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease caused by the body's immune system attacking its own tissues and organs. This can cause inflammation in various parts of the body, including the joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, brain, heart, and lungs. While living with lupus requires management of symptoms and understanding of the condition, it's also important to note there isn't a one-size-fits-all "lupus diet." However, some people find that certain foods can impact their symptoms either positively or negatively. Identifying and incorporating foods that can help manage your symptoms, along with those to avoid, can be a beneficial part of your overall lupus management strategy. Ahead, PS spoke to dietitians and a rheumatologist about creating a lupus diet that is most beneficial for symptom management, as well as what foods to eat with lupus and what foods to avoid. How Does Your Diet Impact Lupus? Like many conditions, dietary choices may impact symptoms associated with lupus, with some caveats to keep in mind. "Lupus is an autoimmune condition, so it can't be cured by just changing your diet," Chrissy Arsenault, registered dietitian at Trainer Academy, told PS. "However, consuming a nutrient-dense diet is an essential part of a holistic approach to treatment." "Periods of increased lupus disease activity or lupus flares are a result of inflammation," adds rheumatologist, Micaela Bayard, MD, assistant Professor of Medicine at Icahn School of Medicine Mount Sinai and advisory board member for POPSUGAR's Condition Center. Because of this, Dr. Bayard says anything that leads to decreased inflammation may prevent or limit flare symptoms - including eating or avoiding certain foods. Consulting with a healthcare provider or a dietitian can help in tailoring a dietary plan that suits an individual's specific needs and conditions. Food to Avoid With Lupus People living with lupus should consider avoiding certain types of foods that may exacerbate their symptoms or trigger flare-ups. While trigger foods can vary from person to person, there are some general foods and beverages our experts recommend limiting when you have lupus, including: Alcohol: It may potentially trigger flares due to its immunosuppressive properties, exacerbating symptoms and increasing the risk of kidney involvement, a common lupus complication. Alfalfa sprouts: While beloved by many, these microgreens "contain an amino acid called L-canavanine that may stimulate the immune system, potentially leading to flare-ups in individuals with lupus," Dr. Bayard explains. Because of this, this food may be best left off of the dishes of those with lupus. Foods high in salt: These foods may elevate blood pressure and stress the kidneys, an organ that lupus may affect. Pickles, ultra-processed meats (like bacon and sausage), and many canned soups are just a few items that are typically high in sodium. Sugary beverages, ultra-processed snacks, and fried foods: Foods that fall into this category (like regular soda, fried chicken wings, and fried potato chips) can also negatively affect those with lupus as they're considered pro-inflammatory foods. "Some research indicates that reducing added sugars may alleviate lupus symptoms, but there is not yet enough evidence to conclude that sugar directly causes lupus symptoms," says Mascha Davis, MPH, RD, registered dietitian nutritionist and author of "Eat Your Vitamins". Food to Eat With Lupus For those managing a lupus diagnosis, a balanced and nutritious diet can play a crucial role in maintaining overall health and managing symptoms. "Overall, there is no one best lupus diet, and the best balance of food and supplements is specific to the needs of each individual living with lupus depending on their most active symptoms," Dr. Bayard tells PS. That said, there are also some foods experts believe can be particularly useful for those who have lupus, including: The Mediterranean diet: This eating plan is thought to have a positive impact on lupus health, per Dr. Bayard. One study published in Rheumatology showed that, among people with lupus, greater adherence to the Mediterranean diet was linked to better heart health and lower disease activity vs. those who did not follow this dietary pattern. The researchers suggest that one reason why these positive effects were observed is because of the anti-inflammatory nature of this diet. The Mediterranean diet emphasizes consuming the following foods: plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts, alongside olive oil as a major source of healthy fat. It also includes moderate amounts of fish and poultry, with a reduced intake of red meat and dairy products, promoting heart health and supporting weight management. Foods that provide calcium: Food sources high in calcium (like leafy greens, milk, and tofu) can be beneficial for bone and joint health in lupus, Dr. Bayard says. Fish and nuts: Both are rich in omega-3s which can be beneficial for heart health in lupus, Dr. Bayard tells PS. Dark-colored produce: Cherries, beets, and leafy greens, and other dark-colored produce are rich in antioxidants and should therefore be a part of a lupus-friendly diet, Davis shares. Antioxidants can combat oxidative stress, which may thereby reduce inflammation and potentially reduce flare-ups among some people with lupus. Vitamin D foods: People with lupus tend to have low levels of vitamin D due to a combination of lupus disease activity, corticosteroid use, and avoiding sunlight. Vitamin D impacts bone health, and lower levels of it are linked to negative bone health outcomes. Fatty fish, eggs (with the yolk), fortified milk and dairy alternatives can help fuel the body with vitamin D. Outside of food, Dr. Bayard also considers supplements as a potentially beneficial component of the "lupus diet". As more research becomes available, "we may find more about the benefits of many of the supplements that have been suggested to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects: curcumin,/turmeric, selenium, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E," Dr. Bayard says. That said, all of our experts agree that every body is different and when it comes to eating a "lupus diet," there is no one plan. For this reason, consulting with your healthcare provider can help you navigate your diet in the safest and most beneficial way. Lauren Manaker is an award-winning registered dietitian and freelance writer who is passionate about providing evidence-based nutrition information in a fun and interesting way

Shopping for furniture can be overwhelming, especially online. There are too many options to sift through, and you can never be sure of the quality. Plus, you probably want something stylish but comfortable, cozy, and stands the test of time. For that reason, the unsung heroes of furniture shopping are those under-the-radar DTC brands that offer trendy pieces at a reasonable price point. One such brand is Castlery. Castlery's lineup of indoor and outdoor furniture embodies quiet luxury without the steep price tag. The brand offers stylish and modern in-house-designed pieces made with high-quality materials that are durable and resilient with craftsmanship that rivals high-end options. Whether you lean midcentury modern, prefer something contemporary, or love a cozy, coastal feel, Castlery offers furniture that is both timeless and trend-driven, so your space will always look elevated while feeling like a home. The brand also offers flat-rate shipping, a 14-day return policy, and free swatches, so you can see if the upholster of your choosing is a perfect match for your space. Whether you're looking for furniture for a new move or just need to give your home a much-needed refresh, Castlery has a wide array of options to choose from - there's everything from sofas and sectionals to dining room picks, bed frames, side tables, and coffee tables, storage furniture, and more. To help you find the right ones for your home, we curated our favorite furniture from Castlery ahead. In fact, we've tried, tested, and reviewed several of Castlery's offerings, including comfortable and cloud-like sofas, supportive armchairs, and even a Carrara marble dining table. Right now, you can snag some of Castlery's bestsellers and our editor-backed picks on sale during its sitewide Spring Sale. You can get $80 off when you spend a minimum of $1,500, $180 off when you spend a minimum of $2,500, and $400 off when you spend a minimum of $4,500. This offer ends April 28, so hurry, it's too good to miss. As you can see, there's no better time to shop Castlery's thoughtfully designed furniture and transform your living space into a sanctuary of style and comfort. You wouldn't want your favorite pieces to go out of stock, so shop our top picks ahead. Shop Castlery's Editor-Backed Furniture Shop Castlery's Bestselling Furniture Shop Castlery's Limited-Edition Anniversary Collection - Additional reporting by Krista Jones Related: The Best New Arrivals at West Elm - From Curved Sectionals to Bouclé Pillows

"My eye is clearly not looking the best today, so let's pack a hospital bag," I said in my first TikTok to ever go viral. It was December 2021 and I was preparing to be admitted at the Mayo Clinic, two hours away from my hometown in Arizona. Having lost the vision in my right eye due to a mysterious inflammatory condition just a few weeks prior, I made the video as a way to give my friends (and technology-savvy grandma) a more personal update on my health. I had no idea that after hitting post, the TikTok would be seen by over two million people. By the time I saw the notifications, I was in a hospital bed with double IVs. Thousands of comments came pouring in, some of which include unsolicited medical advice, but most of which came from creators sharing their own experiences with chronic illness - adding to my video their personal hospital packing tips. As I continued making TikToks, I found more and more people within the chronic illness community - many of whom I'm still connected with to this day. At the time of the original video, I was a 21-year-old who felt her health and independence had been stolen, and the anger was difficult to shake. "When I feel anything at all, it's anger or fleeting laughter - an unexpected rage towards the people around me who will never know what I'm going through and will never truly want to," I wrote in a journal entry on Dec. 3, 2021. "Because I don't get a break. I don't have an escape. It's just all around me." The platform was a refuge and a resource, welcoming me into a community I never anticipated joining, but now feel honored to be a part of. Most of my 20-something peers couldn't relate to the depression I felt after surviving two strokes (also a result of my inflammatory condition), but TikTok could. My friends saw me gaining weight and didn't understand that I was struggling on medication like corticosteroids, but TikTok did. My followers taught me how to advocate for myself and encouraged me to keep seeking medical care when I was close to giving up. They lifted me up when I still hated this new version of myself. The platform was a refuge and a resource, welcoming me into a community I never anticipated joining, but now feel honored to be a part of. My health still hasn't improved, but my relationship with my illness has. As I seriously consider removing my right eye, I lean on monocular content creators who understand the unique physical and emotional toll I'm about to go through. Now, with an ambiguous TikTok ban inching closer, I worry where this close-knit support will go. Will the chronic illness community be shuttered back to our respective Facebook groups? Will there be a mass-exodus to Instagram Reels? Certain hospitals offer communities and support networks, but few feel as authentic as the ones we build ourselves on social media. In my personal experience, the TikTok algorithm offers connection, community, and tangible support. I think of creators like Kelcie Miller-Anderson, Emaje Harris, and Nicole Pedra, all of whom are sharing important, candid content about living with chronic illness. Lawmakers are quick to crack down on a platform when they can't control it, but they don't know how much TikTok actively helps people like us. I'm still not convinced TikTok will ever go away completely. But if a TikTok ban really does become a reality, my first priority will be finding my people. Connection is power, and I'm forever grateful to the chronic illness community on TikTok for helping me find my own. Chandler Plante is an assistant editor for POPSUGAR Health & Fitness. Previously, she worked as an editorial assistant for People magazine and contributed to Ladygunn, Millie, and Bustle Digital Group. In her free time, she overshares on the internet, creating content about chronic illness, beauty, and disability. Related: I Blamed WFH For My Weight Changes and Mood. Then I Was Diagnosed With Cushing Disease.

If you're on TikTok, more specifically, Beauty-Tok, you've probably seen at least one person singing the praises of infrared hair tools. Whether it's a flat iron, a blow dryer, or a hot brush, infrared hot tools have taken over social feeds, and the obsession doesn't seem to be slowing down anytime soon. While it's always fun to test the next big thing - from beauty tools to hair trends - it's always good to do your own research before diving in headfirst. Quite a few people have claimed that infrared hair tools don't cause any heat damage to your hair, unlike regular styling tools. It sounds a little too good to be true, but is it possible? Infrared technology is often used in saunas and even some skin-care tools, like LED face masks, but its uses for hair are still very new. Ahead, we chat with some hair-care experts who answer all of your burning questions about infrared hair tools, including what they are, how they work, and whether or not they're actually good for your hair. What Are Infrared Hair Tools? So, what even are infrared hot tools? "Infrared hair tools use infrared technology to emit gentle heat that penetrates the hair shaft, helping to style hair without causing excessive damage," Adam Federico, R+Co vice president of technical education, tells PS. While traditional hot tools like flat irons and blow dryers use ceramic plates or metal coils to produce heat, which is then transferred to the hair through direct contact, infrared hair tools emit infrared radiation, which penetrates the hair shaft directly. "The infrared light wavelength penetrates the hair shaft and heats it evenly from the inside out," Gretchen Friese, BosleyMD trichologist, says. "The electromagnetic waves enter the hair's cortex while the heat from the tool works on closing the hair's cuticle." So, there's some merit to the claims all over TikTok, but it's important to note that even infrared tools still cause some damage to the hair - at least compared to air-drying, which is the best for hair health. A popular infrared round brush is the BondiBoost Infrared Bounce Brush ($98), which is an editor-favorite, while a top-rated infrared straightener is the Silk'n SilkyStraight ($189). Benefits of Infrared Hair Tools Infrared hair tools have quite a few benefits, especially when compared to traditional hot tools, but they can be broken down into two simple categories: styling time and hair health. "They tend to cause less damage to the hair because they work more gently and efficiently, requiring lower temperatures to achieve the same results," Federico says. Since infrared radiation penetrates the hair shaft, heating it from the inside out, you can often save time during your styling routine, which in turn reduces the amount of time your hair is exposed to heat. It also helps to heat the hair evenly, whereas traditional styling tools aren't as precise. If you deal with a lot of frizz or static, infrared hot tools can help you with that as well. "The infrared heat helps to seal moisture in the hair, reducing frizz and leaving hair looking healthier and shinier," Federico says. Using an infrared hot tool allows your hair to retain moisture, whereas typical hot tools can do the opposite, essentially stripping moisture from the hair. How to Use Infrared Hot Tools You don't use infrared hair tools any differently than other heat-styling tools. However, it's important to note that infrared hair tools aren't completely heat-free, so you should always use a heat-protectant when styling your hair. Our current favorite is the Dry Bar Hot Toddy Heat Protectant Mist Coconut Colada Scent ($29). If you prefer products you can spritz directly into wet hair, we'd suggest using a leave-in conditioner after cleansing that has heat protectant included. "I love Divi's 3-in-1 Leave-In Conditioner ($26) because there isn't a greasy residue left on hair and it has amazing detangling power," trichologist Angela Onuoha says. "A smoother surface to work with results in smoother results during and after styling. Divi's formula is able to protect the hair up to 450°F, which is a must when it comes to using heat tools." "I always tell my clients they need to use a good shampoo, conditioner, and hair mask - even if they use no heat at all," Friese says. "Things like hair color, the sun, arid weather, and just the elements we are exposed to can all affect our hair health." Because of this, it's important to choose products that are formulated specifically for your hair type and texture - that includes taking into account whether or not your hair is color-treated. Federico recommends using the R+Co DALLAS Biotin Thickening Shampoo ($38) for fine hair and the R+Co BEL AIR Smoothing Shampoo + Anti-Oxidant Complex ($34) for frizzy thick hair. TL;DR: any form of heat styling can cause damage to your hair, but infrared hot tools are a good alternative to traditional hot tools. Renee Rodriguez is a staff writer and social producer for PS. She writes across all verticals, but her main areas of expertise focus on fashion and beauty content with an emphasis on reviews and editor experiments. She also produces social content for POPSUGAR's TikTok and Instagram accounts.

Finding the perfect work bag comes with a laundry list of criteria. It needs to be stylish but functional, lightweight yet durable, well-made but reasonably priced, and, most importantly, it needs to be large enough to hold a laptop. If you're lugging it around on public transportation, bonus features like key leashes and zippered pockets become even more essential. Finally, trying to find a bag that fits all these needs and can be worn with everything from a spring dress to comfy jeans can be daunting. The sheer variety of options are overwhelming enough. The good news? We've scoured Amazon's vast inventory of work bags, homing in on the top-reviewed options with price points so low, you'll be tempted to buy more than one. There are work bags for every style, budget, and need, so you're sure to find something that will suit you perfectly. Searching for a stylish backpack? We've found one with a built-in USB charger and another option that's a Swedish design icon. If you like to keep it minimal and utilitarian but have a weakness for buttery leather, you'll want to give Madewell's Zip-Top Essential Tote a try. Want something luxe and timeless? We'll introduce you to Coach's Polished Pebble Leather Day Tote. We've even slipped in trendy styles, like cross-body bags and woven leather options. Those are just a few of the options we've uncovered. Keep reading to find out which of our picks is your best match. Related: Megan Fox and Hailey Bieber's Go-To JW Pei Bags Are $60 on Amazon

Outdoor hosting season is right around the corner, and we're already dreaming about filling our calendars up with backyard barbecues, sun-drenched soirées, and dinner parties that last late into the night. Whether you're planning to embrace your inner-Martha Stewart this season or are simply hoping to transform your backyard into a more relaxing oasis going into the fall, you can start by investing in the right furniture pieces - of which Article has no shortage of. The brand carries a wide variety of stylish furniture pieces that range from practical dining table sets and lounge chairs to comfortable sofas, area rugs, and so much more. Best of all, the direct-to-consumer furniture brand is also hosting a major spring sale that includes deals up to 30 percent off on hundreds of outdoor furniture essentials. Ahead, we curated a list of the best outdoor furniture to shop from Article, with pieces that'll not only help to turn your backyard into a dream hangout zone, but ones that are also bound to elevate your home. Keep the pre-summer celebrations rolling and read on to shop Article's best outdoor furniture. - Additional reporting by Krista Jones Related: This Cozy Castlery Sofa Is an Editor Favorite - and It's on Sale For Memorial Day

Nothing can ever replace being with a loved one, but if they've passed on, a memorial tattoo is a lovely way to keep their legacy alive. Whether it's something tiny or an elaborate piece of art that takes up your whole arm, there's no shortage of memorial tattoo ideas out there. Getting an "in loving memory" tattoo inked in honor of someone you love and admire can also be a therapeutic part of the grieving process. For many, it's a permanent way to keep a loved one close when they physically can't be there anymore, as well as a permanent reminder of the memories and love you will always carry. Since it's a permanent symbol of remembrance, you want to be 100 percent sure about the design and tattoo you choose. If you're struggling to think of some inspiration, we recommend brainstorming about something that has always stuck with you, a symbolic reminder that represents what they mean to you, or a vivid memory you have of them. Whether you're searching for simple memorial tattoos or just general tattoos for lost loved ones, we've got some ideas. Here are some real-life examples of memorial tattoos to get you thinking.

Finally booked that appointment, said a hail Mary, and took the shag-haircut plunge? Yeah, you and everybody else. Nothing, and we do mean nothing, has spurred more of a hair frenzy since the the lob first made an appearance circa 2014 quite like the shag style haircut has in recent years - and it's showing no signs of slowing down soon. How to style a shag haircut, however, is an entirely separate matter. "For the shag, you have to let go of conventional styling techniques that we have all been doing for the last decade," Devin Toth, hairstylist at Salon SCK in NYC, tells PS. "You wouldn't do a perfect, bouncy, round-brush blowout, styled section by section, and then create loose waves, set by a large curling iron." Erm, so what should you do, then? Celebrity hairstylist Rebekah Forecast says the three things that differentiate the shag haircut from any other style are "the strong fringe, the straightness of the ends, and the volume at the root." For the former, you'll want to cut your bangs regularly to maintain the blunt effect. Beyond that, it's all about picking the right products and using them correctly. Because no one should have to maneuver this retro haircut trend alone, ahead we've asked the pros to break down the exact tools and techniques that'll keep your new shag looking groovy, baby. Related: 10 Haircut Ideas to Add to Your 2024 Mood Board

We're in an era of heatless curls. Social media - namely TikTok and Instagram - are filled with people attempting to learn how to style their hair at home and trialing heatless methods in the process. We can see the appeal: who wouldn't want to wake up with perfectly curled hair with little effort? But if you've yet to find a technique that works for you, you're probably wondering how to do heartless curls on yourself. And we have your answer - or answers, seeing as there are a handful of different ways to go about it. There are countless heatless curl tutorials online, ranging from the viral curling ribbon to pin curls. The success of certain hacks can vary depending on the length of your hair as well as your hair type, and may take some trial and error to get right, but once you find the best technique for you, you'll be off to the races. Getting heatless curls overnight can help you cut down on time spent heat styling - not to mention the damage that comes with constantly running a blow dryer or curling iron through your hair. So if you're ready to break up with your hot tools (or at least give them a little bit of a break), keep scrolling for a list of the best heatless curl tutorials out there, tested and rated by our editors.