Health

A recent CDC survey provides the first national data on transgender students and high school students in the United States, shedding light on the prevalence of gender identity diversity among young people and the significant mental health challenges they face. The findings reveal that approximately 3.3% of students identify as transgender, with an additional 2.2% questioning their gender identity. These data highlight the need for greater support, understanding and inclusive policies for these young people. The survey, conducted in 2023, highlights alarming disparities in mental health outcomes between transgender and cisgender students. Transgender adolescents reported substantially higher rates of bullying,…

Two American scientists, Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun, have been awarded the 2024 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their pioneering work on microRNAs. This tiny molecule plays a vital role in regulating gene expression, influencing how organisms develop and function. Their research, using the nematode C. elegansrevealed a new level of complexity in the central dogma of molecular biology, demonstrating how microRNAs act as a control mechanism for protein production. This discovery has significant implications for understanding and treating disease. The regulatory function of microRNA can be disrupted in conditions such as cancer, diabetes and autoimmune diseases. The…

Federal health authorities confirmed new cases of avian influenza in California, reporting that two dairy farm employees tested positive for the H5N1 virus. These recent cases were identified in workers on separate farms, both of whom had been exposed to infected livestock. This latest development brings the total number of confirmed cases among agricultural workers to 16 this year, with additional cases still under review. Dr. Nirav Shah, principal deputy director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, noted that these cases are part of a larger trend seen in California, where infection among cattle herds has increased significantly…

In a notable change, the number of overdose deaths in the United States has seen a significant decrease. Recent data from state and federal agencies indicates an approximately 10% decline in these deaths, marking important progress in containing the opioid crisis, particularly linked to the widespread presence of fentanyl. From April 2023 to April 2024, the total number of overdose deaths dropped to about 101,000, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This reduction is being hailed by the Biden administration as the most substantial decline ever recorded. Similarly, non-fatal overdose incidents also decreased by more than…

Rwanda has reported an outbreak of Marburg virus, a severe hemorrhagic fever known for its high mortality rate, with 11 fatalities this year. This marks the first appearance of the virus in Rwanda, located in east-central Africa, despite its presence in several other African nations in recent decades. Rwanda's Health Ministry has identified 36 cases since the virus was first detected in late September. In a related development, German health authorities have confirmed that two people suspected of having the Marburg virus have tested negative. The scare led to temporary restrictions at a major Hamburg train station, following symptoms the…

Gilead Sciences, a major pharmaceutical company, recently unveiled a major initiative to fight HIV globally by enabling the production of a generic version of its breakthrough drug, lenacapavir. This injectable drug, administered every two years, has demonstrated exceptional effectiveness in preventing HIV infections. Under the new agreement, Gilead will grant free licenses to six generic drug makers based in Asia and North Africa. These manufacturers are authorized to distribute the drug at a reduced cost in 120 countries, mostly in sub-Saharan Africa, the regions most affected by HIV. This strategic move aims to make this life-saving treatment accessible to those…

As marijuana legalization expands in the United States, concerns about potential health risks are growing. While most users experience no problems, a growing number, particularly heavy users, report addiction, psychosis and other negative consequences. Dr. Kevin Gray, a psychiatrist specializing in bio-behavioral medicine, highlights the complex nature of cannabis: “Cannabis has both therapeutic and potentially problematic effects.” The New York Times interviewed hundreds of people experiencing serious and sometimes frightening symptoms related to cannabis use. One story tells of actor David Krumholtz, who after resuming marijuana use, developed cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS). This debilitating condition causes cycles of intense nausea…

Rwanda is currently battling an epidemic of Marburg virus disease, a rare but serious hemorrhagic fever. Since the end of September, 36 cases and 11 deaths have been reported. Although caused by different viruses, Marburg shares similarities with Ebola in transmission, symptoms and progression. The virus is initially transmitted from fruit bats to humans. Previous outbreaks have occurred in Africa, but not in Rwanda. A medical student in Germany who had contact with an infected patient in Rwanda has shown symptoms. Tests confirmed negative for Marburg, reassuring the public that there is no current risk. First identified in 1967, Marburg…

In a distressing turn of events, Dr. Anna Nusslock, a 36-year-old chiropractor from Eureka, California, was faced with a critical medical situation that brought unexpected legal and ethical challenges to the forefront. In February, Dr Nusslock, who was pregnant with twins, suffered a premature rupture of membranes at 15 weeks' gestation. Medical assessments indicated that the survival of her twins was highly unlikely and that continuing the pregnancy posed serious risks to her health, including potential infections and significant blood loss. Despite the urgent medical recommendation for an abortion given the non-viability of the fetuses and the health risks involved,…

Despite previous assurances, former President Donald J. Trump continues to hide his medical records from the public. This continued secrecy raises concerns especially as he runs for office again, potentially becoming the oldest president in history by the end of his term. His refusal to share even the most basic health information remains a point of contention. During his 2015 presidential campaign, Trump was reluctant to share his medical history, opting instead to release a brief statement from his doctor saying he would be "the healthiest individual ever elected president." His health again became the subject of intense speculation in…