Author: Saba Kash

A Growing Concern: The Rise of Loneliness Among Gen Z Recent studies have pointed to a troubling trend: Generation Z, those born between the late 1990s and early 2010s, are grappling with higher levels of loneliness than any previous generation. This widespread phenomenon has garnered significant attention from mental health professionals, sociologists, and educators worldwide. Factors Contributing to Gen Z’s Isolation Several key factors contribute to the heightened sense of loneliness among Gen Z individuals. Foremost is the digital age’s influence: while technology fosters constant connectivity, it often lacks the depth and quality of face-to-face interactions.  Social media platforms, hubs…

Bilingualism, the ability to fluently speak two or more languages, is not just a linguistic skill.  It significantly influences brain function and structure, leading to a unique cognitive profile. This article delves into how bilingualism reshapes the brain, exploring its impact from a neuroscientific perspective. The Neurological Impact of Bilingualism Research has consistently shown that bilingual individuals exhibit differences in brain structure when compared to monolinguals. These differences are particularly noticeable in areas associated with language processing and executive functions. Bilingualism enhances cognitive flexibility, problem-solving skills, and multitasking abilities. The structural differences in bilingual brains are supported by scientific studies.…

In a significant health advisory, South Korea’s food ministry warns against the consumption of fried starch toothpicks, a recent viral trend on social media.  These items, resembling curly fries, are raising safety concerns due to their unconventional use as food. Rise of a Novel Culinary Fad on Social Media Recent trends on social media platforms, particularly TikTok and Instagram, have seen the emergence of fried starch toothpicks as a novel culinary fad.  Originating in South Korea, restaurants typically use toothpicks made from biodegradable materials like sweet potato or corn starch for handling finger foods. Their transformation into a deep-fried snack,…

Singapore is witnessing a worrying trend in, with dengue cases escalating for the seventh consecutive week.  The National Environment Agency’s (NEA) recent report indicates a notable increase in infections, with 410 new cases recorded in the last week. This surge highlights the urgent need for heightened community awareness and proactive measures to mitigate the spread of this mosquito-borne disease. Seventh Week of Escalating Dengue Cases: Analysing the Trend As Singapore enters its seventh consecutive week of escalating dengue cases, a deeper analysis into the trend reveals critical insights. The steady increase, culminating in 410 new cases in the most recent…

Revolutionising Alzheimer’s Diagnosis: Pioneering Blood Test Detects Disease Earlier Than Ever In a significant stride towards advancing Alzheimer’s disease diagnostics, the latest research has validated an innovative blood test. This blood testdetects phosphorylated tau 217 (p-tau217), a key biomarker in Alzheimer’s. This development heralds a transformative approach in identifying the disease, offering a non-invasive, accessible alternative to conventional diagnostic methods. The Paradigm Shift in Alzheimer’s Testing Moving away from traditional, invasive diagnostic methods, the p-tau217 blood test represents a paradigm shift in Alzheimer’s testing. Its ability to detect Alzheimer’s-related changes with high accuracy, even in the pre-symptomatic stages, is a…

Understanding Multivitamins: What Are They? Multivitamins are dietary supplements comprising various vitamins, minerals, and sometimes other ingredients like herbs and amino acids. They are formulated to supplement a person’s diet and provide essential nutrients that may be lacking.  These supplements are available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and gummies, and are designed for convenience and ease of use. The role of multivitamins is particularly significant for individuals who might have nutritional deficiencies due to various factors such as poor diet, certain health conditions, or specific lifestyle choices​. The Composition and Benefits of Multivitamins Multivitamins are typically composed of a…

A new study unveils the positive impact of daily multivitamin supplements on memory and cognitive abilities in the elderly. This marks a significant stride in the battle against cognitive ageing. The COcoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS), a large-scale, nationwide, randomised trial, rigorously tests cocoa extract and multivitamin supplements directed by researchers at Mass General Brigham.  Chirag Vyas, MBBS, MPH, highlights, ‘A daily supplement of multivitamins has the potential as an appealing and accessible approach to slow cognitive ageing.’ This study, focusing on older adults, forms a critical part of the endeavour to understand and combat cognitive decline. COSMOS-Clinic…

Hoarding Disorder: A Comprehensive Guide Hoarding disorder, also known as compulsive hoarding, is a persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions, regardless of their actual value. This behaviour results in the accumulation of items that clutter and disrupt living spaces, significantly impacting daily functioning. In addressing this, let’s delve into the causes, effects, and treatment options for hoarding disorder. What is Hoarding Disorder? Exploring its Causes Hoarding disorder, with its complex etiology, has been linked to genetic factors. Individuals with a first-degree relative diagnosed with hoarding disorder have a significantly increased likelihood of developing the condition themselves. This familial tendency…

A Brief Overview of CFS Prevalence Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), a complex disorder characterised by extreme fatigue, has witnessed a notable increase in prevalence in recent years. This condition, often exacerbated by physical or mental activity, remains a challenge in the healthcare due to its unclear causes and varied symptoms.  What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome? Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS), is a long-term and debilitating illness impacting numerous systems in the body, most notably resulting in persistent fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest. The rise in its prevalence has been a subject of concern and study…

The prevalence of Lyme disease in Asia, a region where this tick-borne illness was previously less common, is now being increasingly recognised.  A systematic review and meta-analysis of Lyme disease data in China from 2005 to 2020 showed an IgG seropositivity estimate of 9.1%, indicating a notable presence of the disease in the population​​.  Additionally, a comparative study in Korea and Japan from 2011 to 2016 reported 65 and 75 cases of Lyme disease respectively, with a higher incidence observed among those aged ≤20 years​​. These data highlight the emerging importance of Lyme disease in Asia, a region that has…