Mixed Topics
News
Despite recent uptick in cases, leprosy is very rare, expert says
Over the past several years, 150-250 cases of leprosy have been reported each year.
News
Women increasingly dying of alcohol-related causes
“There are risks of alcohol that are unique to women for a variety of reasons, including differences in metabolism and the impact of hormones, as...
News
Why scratching is so contagious
“Contagious behavior is actually a very efficient way to inform other animals of what’s coming.”
News
Stiff arteries may cause metabolic syndrome
“It seems metabolic syndrome has a new risk factor we haven’t thought about.”
News
High-intensity interval training before major surgery may boost postoperative outcomes
HIIT could be cost-effective and “should be included in prehabilitation programs.”
Commentary
Lessons from the longest study on happiness
To some surprise, researchers determined that good relationships were the most significant predictor of health and happiness during aging.
Commentary
Has the time come to bury BMI in favor of other screening measures?
While BMI is a quick and inexpensive means to assess obesity, by itself it lacks the necessary components for an accurate diagnosis.
News from the FDA/CDC
FDA approves first over-the-counter birth control pill
The product, OPill, is expected to be available early in 2024.
News
Hairy moles may contain the cure for baldness: Study
Researchers analyzed hair follicle stem cells and discovered that a molecule called osteopontin drives accelerated hair growth.
Commentary
Should you have a chaperone in the exam room? Many say yes
Complicating this issue of when is a chaperone appropriate and when can it be refused, if ever, is the fact that the role of chaperone is ill...