A study published in the journal Nature reveals that the hormone GDF15, produced by the fetus’s part of the placenta, could be responsible for pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting. The research also suggests pre-emptive treatment of GDF15 might desensitize women to its effects, potentially preventing severe morning sickness. The findings could influence treatments for conditions such as hyperemesis gravidarum, a severe and persistent form of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.
GLP-1 drugs, used for diabetes and weight loss, are being tested for their potential to reduce alcohol and cigarette cravings. However, pharmaceutical companies show reluctance in supporting this research due to potential commercial risk and safety concerns. Scientists hope to prove patients’ reported reductions in drinking desire with concrete clinical trial outcomes.
Sunscreen isn’t only necessary during summer or vacations, but all year round, asserts dermatologist Dawn Davis from Mayo Clinic. Even during colder months and indoor activities, UV rays can penetrate glass and clothing, posing a skin cancer risk. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF value of 15 or above and frequent reapplication are essential. It’s also advised to pay attention to the product’s expiration date and storage conditions.
The Covid-19 pandemic disrupted routine immunization programs, reducing the uptake of non-Covid vaccines. The most significant impact is seen in HPV immunizations, particularly among adolescents. In Canada, due to missed in-person school sessions, only 16% of 12-year-olds are up-to-date with HPV vaccinations in 2022, down from 58% before Covid. Such decreases could lead to spikes in HPV-related cancers in the future.
COVID-19 cases are rising again in the U.S. as the holiday season approaches, potentially due to colder weather and indoor gatherings, says CDC. Doctors and scientists are monitoring a fast-spreading variant, JN.1. Test positivity rates and hospitalizations are also increasing. Meanwhile, COVID-19 shot uptake remains low, posing an additional challenge. Experts also point to high levels of virus detected in wastewater as an early infection warning and predict a potential wave in cases around New Year.
Research has shown that frequent use of hair-straightening products could be linked to an increased risk of various cancers, including uterine, ovarian and breast cancer. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suspects formaldehyde, often used in salon-based keratin treatments, as a potential culprit and is planning to propose a ban. The endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in some of these products, such as phthalates, phenols, and parabens may also contribute to these risks.
The BA.2.86 strain of Covid-19, often referred to as “new Covid”, isn’t exactly new, says epidemiologist Katrine Wallace. Having been around since summer, it is starting to account for more US cases, now making up 5% to 15% of current variants in the country. However, Covid tests and treatments seem effective against it, and severity of symptoms isn’t different from other strains. Vaccine-generated antibodies also recognize and neutralize this strain.
A clinical study in Japan reports that intake of OptiMSM, Balchem’s brand of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), significantly reduces joint pain. The experiment, carried out on healthy adults, involved a daily dose of two grams of OptiMSM for 12 weeks, which resulted in decreased morning and nocturnal joint pain, along with improved overall health.
Chinese people have traditionally relied on herbal concoctions to cure illnesses, and despite the prevalence of Western medicine, many still turn to traditional remedies. Amid a surge in respiratory illnesses like mycoplasma pneumoniae, China’s health officials are advocating traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) again. However, while TCM garners a significant presence in Chinese healthcare, its health claims show mixed results.
Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly have developed successful weight loss drugs, generating high demand and bringing us into a “golden age” of weight loss medication. However, access to these drugs is unequal, with wealthier areas showing higher usage than areas struck with higher obesity rates. The hope is that increased insurance coverage will reduce this disparity and help to alleviate obesity-related health conditions across socioeconomic divides.
Ozempic, a new weight-loss drug, is sparking debates both within and outside of body-positive and weight-related communities. While some see it as a life-changing solution, others perceive it as fueling judgment and creating a divide among groups advocating body acceptance. Furthermore, weight-loss businesses and health companies are adjusting strategies based on the drug’s potential. The vast differences in reactions show how this revolutionary drug is altering personal relationships, societal judgments, and industry dynamics.
Dealing with tempting foods while having IBS involves preparation, discovery of triggers, and self-control, according to gastroenterologist Jacqueline Wolf. She recommends trying the FODMAP diet to uncover problematic foods. Being proactive in food preparation, understanding menu options beforehand, and using over-the-counter products can also help manage IBS symptoms. Wolf suggests clear communication with others about dietary restrictions in social settings.
A new study suggests that a daily fruit-flavored medicine can reduce a child’s risk of developing multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) by over half. TB, preventable and curable, requires an extensive treatment course and can have severe side effects. Historically, children were last to receive therapies due to underfunding. The new medication provides hope for the almost two million children suffering from MDR-TB.
An international clinical trial demonstrated that semaglutide, a medication used for chronic weight management and type 2 diabetes, reduced cardiovascular events by 20%, in addition to standard care, in overweight or obese non-diabetic adults. The medication also triggered an average weight loss of 9.4%. These heart health improvements weren’t solely due to weight loss, suggesting semaglutide has additional, direct beneficial effects.
