Author: Saba Kash

How Gut Health Impacts PCOS Symptoms Emerging research reveals that gut health significantly affects Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) symptoms. Alterations in gut microbiota can influence insulin resistance, inflammation, and hormonal imbalances, which are key factors in PCOS. Understanding the connection between gut health and PCOS offers new avenues for managing this condition effectively. Altered Gut Microbiota Women with PCOS exhibit lower diversity and altered phylogenetic composition of gut microbiota compared to healthy controls. The gut microbiota is the community of microorganisms living in the digestive tract, playing a crucial role in overall health. In PCOS patients, the diversity of these…

Australia has introduced groundbreaking regulations on the sale of vapes, becoming the first country to restrict their sale to pharmacies.  The new laws, effective from 1 July 2024, aim to regulate the importation, sale, and advertising of vapes, including all vaping substances, accessories, and devices. Overview of Vape Regulation Changes in Australia Starting 1 January 2024, Australia tightened import controls on all vapes. Importers can only bring in vapes that meet the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) standards. These changes come with revised regulations for therapeutic vapes. From 1 March 2024, importers must notify the TGA of compliant vapes, ensuring non-compliant…

Proton beam therapy for cancer in Singapore is being heralded as an advanced radiation treatment.  Unlike conventional radiation, proton beam therapy for cancer in Singapore minimises damage to healthy cells. Dr Michael Wang, chair of radiation oncology at the National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS), highlighted that proton beam therapy for cancer in Singapore reduces radiation exposure to nearby healthy tissues and organs, potentially lowering the risk of secondary cancers. Introduction of Proton Beam Therapy in Singapore Since mid-2023, Singapore has offered proton beam therapy for cancer at three locations. Mount Elizabeth Novena, the Singapore Institute of Advanced Medicine Holdings (SAM)…

A major health scare has erupted in Japan a a dietary supplement has been linked to 80 deaths.  The company has initiated a recall amidst growing concerns about the safety of its cholesterol-lowering product, which contains red yeast rice. Rising Death Toll and Initial Recall The crisis began earlier this year when Kobayashi Pharmaceuticals reported five deaths potentially linked to CholesteHelp. This number has since surged to 80, with the supplement now under intense scrutiny.  The company initially recalled three of its supplements in March, including CholesteHelp, after 106 customers were hospitalised due to kidney issues. The recall has since…

Many people with joint conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis notice increased discomfort during humid weather.  Research has confirmed that there is a strong link between humidity and joint pain.  When humidity levels rise, changes in the body can lead to more pain and stiffness. This makes daily activities more challenging and affects overall quality of life. Understanding how humidity influences joint pain can help sufferers better manage their symptoms. Influence of Humidity on Joint Pain Research shows that high humidity levels can worsen joint pain in conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. One study found that when humidity levels…

New Findings on Multivitamin Use and Mortality A recent large analysis involving nearly 400,000 healthy U.S. adults, followed for over 20 years, has found no association between regular multivitamin use and a lower risk of early death. This cohort study, led by researchers at the National Cancer Institute, was published on June 26, 2024, in JAMA Network Open. Examining Multivitamin Use and Health Nearly one in three adults report using multivitamins, primarily to maintain or improve their health and prevent chronic diseases. Despite this widespread use, the benefits and harms of regular multivitamin supplementation remain unclear.  Previous studies on multivitamin…

Scientists have developed an innovative method for moving objects with sound, which could revolutionise applications in medicine.  Researchers at the Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) have directed floating objects around an aquatic obstacle course using only soundwaves. This optics-inspired technique involves a method that relies on soundwaves to move objects without needing controlled environments or direct contact.  The approach shows great promise for noninvasive targeted drug delivery, potentially allowing precise delivery of medications to specific areas within the body. A Novel Method: Wave Momentum Shaping The EPFL team, led by Romain Fleury, has developed a technique called wave momentum…

Finland plans to offer preemptive bird flu vaccinations starting next week for workers exposed to animals, health authorities announced on Tuesday.  The Nordic country has procured vaccines for 10,000 individuals. This makes it the first nation globally to initiate a human bird flu vaccination programme. Finland’s groundbreaking initiative aims to protect those at increased risk of contracting avian influenza due to their work environment. Targeted Groups for Bird Flu Vaccination The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) stated that the vaccination will be offered to those aged 18 or over who are at higher risk of exposure to avian…

Choosing the Right Doctor: What Patients Look For Selecting a doctor is a crucial decision that significantly impacts a patient’s health and well-being. Patients consider various factors, ranging from professional credentials and experience to communication style and digital presence.  A doctor’s ability to connect emotionally with patients enhances trust, improves treatment adherence, and leads to better health outcomes. Understanding these factors can help doctors present themselves effectively and build strong, trusting relationships with their patients. Importance of Credentials Professional credentials are one of the primary factors patients consider when choosing their doctor. Board certification and a valid medical licence are…

Walking can significantly alleviate back pain. The gentle, low-impact exercise of walking enhances muscle function, boosts circulation, and promotes spinal flexibility.  This article explores the science behind how walking helps relieve back pain and offers tips to maximise its benefits. How Walking Improves Muscle Function Imagine setting out on a brisk walk through a park. With each step, you’re not just moving forward; you’re engaging various muscle groups, particularly the core, lower back, and leg muscles.  Regular walking acts like a natural workout, gradually strengthening these muscles. As these muscles become stronger, they provide better support for your spine, reducing…