Health

In a patriarchal society, where women’s reproductive health is a hushed affair, the secondary socialisation of young women encourages them to silently endure the suffering that comes with having a womb since physical pain is considered a normal aspect of womanhood. Abiding by this unspoken expectation of stoicism, adolescent girls enduring severe menstrual cramping might … Read more

Climate change could render nearly two-thirds of banana-growing areas in Latin America and the Caribbean unsuitable by 2080, threatening the world’s most consumed fruit, according to a new report from Christian Aid. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, stronger storms, and fungal diseases are already damaging yields in key producing countries like Guatemala, Costa Rica and Colombia, … Read more

Starch-based bioplastics, often marketed as sustainable and biodegradable alternatives to petroleum-based plastics, may pose similar health risks, new peer-reviewed research has found. Scientists who studied the effects of long-term exposure to bioplastics in mice reported toxic effects on organs, genetic functions, and gut bacteria – similar to those caused by conventional plastic. The findings challenge … Read more

The human brain is highly sensitive to heat. According to scientists studying the impact of climate change on health, higher temperatures trigger the body’s central thermostat and activate stress responses. Our bodies prioritize cooling over everything else in extreme heat, meaning less oxygen and blood flow reach the brain and muscles. That’s why we feel … Read more

Also, farmers’ market bounty and a peek at Mia’s new “Paris Couture” exhibit.

A long-standing dental treatment aimed at preventing cavities in children may soon disappear from the US market, as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) moves to eliminate fluoride supplements over safety concerns. The agency announced on May 13 that it intends to remove prescription fluoride tablets and drops, citing potential links to altered gut bacteria, … Read more

The World Health Organization adopted a landmark agreement on Tuesday to strengthen global preparedness for future pandemics, marking the end of three years of negotiations driven by the chaotic response to COVID-19. Applause broke out at the World Health Assembly in Geneva as member states approved the legally binding accord, which aims to ensure equitable … Read more

Found in 70 percent of cancers, the gene is seen as a grand orchestrator but has been surprisingly difficult to stop.

Medical rotations are a crucial part of your education, but they can also be overwhelming. It’s easy to fall into some common traps that hinder your learning and professional growth. Here’s a breakdown of the top five mistakes many med students make during their clinical rotations—and how to avoid them, as highlighted by Medscape and … Read more

The UK government’s ban on disposable vapes comes into force this Sunday, signalling the end of easy access to single-use vaping devices in shops and online. The move, first announced in January 2024, aims to tackle the growing environmental impact caused by disposable vapes, which have surged in popularity over the past decade. Usage has … Read more