Inside the human body lives a community of microorganisms, bacteria, viruses and fungi known as the microbiome. Local professors talk about the importance of understanding the microbiome and the potential implications it could have on health and disease.

On the campaign trail, Donald Trump spoke often about immediately repealing the Affordable Care Act. Now, as president-elect, he appears to be changing his plan. A look at what might be ahead for Obamacare. 

Instead of getting arrested by Chicago police, some offenders will be diverted to a new mental health triage center on the South Side. Why city and county officials hope it helps keep people out of jail.

Open enrollment begins for health plans under the Affordable Care Act. But in Illinois and other states, rates are rising and choices are dwindling. Find out why, and what options consumers have.

Chronic pain affects 100 million Americans, and using drugs to treat patients' pain has been a process of trial and error. New research by local scientists could lead to more personalized treatment of chronic pain.

A national nonprofit watchdog group gives top grades to six Chicago hospitals in its latest ranking. See which ones made the cut.

Earlier this month Ben Stiller revealed he was treated for prostate cancer in 2014 and credited the PSA test with saving his life. Stiller’s surgeon talks about prostate cancer testing and the controversy surrounding the PSA test.

Working out during the day may be more effective than cramming in a late-night session, according to a Northwestern Medicine study.

Twenty Cook County defendants deemed unfit to stand trial are to be placed in a mental health facility. So why are they sitting in jail instead?

East Chicago residents are getting the toxic soil dug out of their yards. But why has it taken the EPA so long to begin cleaning up these neighborhoods?

A paralyzed man is able to experience the sense of touch through the use of a robotic arm controlled by his brain. The breakthrough was made possible, in part, by years of research by a University of Chicago professor.

It's time to harvest the last of the summer crops in the WTTW garden before the first frost.

The Illinois High School Association wants to hear from school principals and athletic directors before voting on proposed pitch count guidelines.

October is national bullying prevention month. Holistic psychotherapist and author Regina E. McCarthy wants to help children of all ages find their voice and the courage to stand up to bullying.

The Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control is urging pet owners to vaccinate their cats, dogs and ferrets against rabies after two outdoor cats tested positive for the virus in Illinois and Missouri.

Framing healthy eating as a rebellious act against a manipulative industry can inspire teens to choose healthier snacks and drinks, a recent study found.