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Measles Outbreak Spreading Fast How to Keep Your Family Safe

Tragic Loss: First Measles elated Deaths in the U.S.What It Means for You ? The United States is currently experiencing a significant measles outbreak, with over 300 confirmed cases reported in the first three months of 2025 a number that surpasses the total annual cases for each year since 2019. This resurgence is particularly concerning for children, as the majority of infections have occurred among unvaccinated youths. Understanding Measles and Its Impact Measles is a highly contagious viral disease characterized by symptoms such as high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive red rash that typically starts on the face and spreads downward. While many recover without complications, measles can lead to severe health issues, including pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and even death, especially in young children. Current Outbreak Overview The epicenter of the current outbreak is in West Texas, where the number of confirmed cases has risen to 259, affecting 11 co...

Can Probiotics Help Reduce Sugar Cravings?

Companies promote the idea, but the science is based on mice studies. Studies show that gut bacteria can influence sugar cravings in mice, and some companies claim probiotics can do the same for people. For many people, sugar is hard to resist but could certain gut bacteria help curb those cravings? That’s what some probiotic brands claim. Probiotic supplements have been marketed for years as a way to boost gut health, increase energy, and even “feel lighter.” Some brands go a step further, suggesting they can also help reduce sugar cravings. But can a daily dose of bacteria really make you crave fewer sweets? The idea isn’t entirely far-fetched. Research in mice has shown that lacking certain gut bacteria like ,  L. gasseri, L. johnsonii , and Muribaculacecan lead to sugar binges. And it’s not just sugar mice missing L. johnsonii and Muribaculaceae tend to overeat high-fat foods, too. “Anything that’s pleasurable, the mice will eat more if they’re missing these organisms,” say...

One Man's Journey with Brain Implants for Depression

Jon Nelson knows the journey well the steady rhythm of the train from Pennsylvania to New York City has become a familiar part of his routine. But this isn't just any trip. Jon is volunteering for a groundbreaking study on deep brain stimulation, an experimental treatment offering hope to those battling severe depression. Each visit to the research lab brings him one step closer to understanding whether this innovative approach can help him reclaim the life he’s been fighting for. Meet Jon Nelson a dad, husband, coach, and marketing professional. On the outside, his life seemed full, but beneath the surface, Jon battled severe depression for years. The weight of his suffering led him to volunteer for an experimental treatment called deep brain stimulation, where tiny electrodes are implanted in the brain to help regulate mood. In this episode, Jon opens up about his life before the surgery and the neuroscience behind the procedure that offered him a chance at hope. Transcript  This...

Trump Decides to Pull the U.S. Out of WHO.Here's what this means for everyone

Reduced funding and withdrawal from participation may restrict the U.S. from accessing essential disease information. In 2023, WHO joined forces with Kenya’s Ministry of Health and other partners to help vaccinate about 2 million people against cholera. The organization teams up with countries across the globe to fight the spread of infectious diseases. For the second time, former President Donald Trum p has announced his intention to cut U.S. support for the World Health Organization (WHO). This global body plays a crucial role in tackling diseases and monitoring outbreaks, which often spread beyond national borders. On January 20, Trump signed an executive order outlining the U.S.'s plan to withdraw from the WHO, a process that will take a full year to complete. His first attempt to leave the organization was in July 2020, but that decision was reversed when President Joe Biden took office in 2021 . The United States was a key player in founding the World Health Organization in 1...

Low-Nicotine Cigarettes Could Make Quitting Easier for Smokers

" New Proposal Aims to Reduce Nicotine   Levels in Some Tobacco Products" "In January, the FDA announced a plan to   drastically cut nicotine levels in   cigarettes and other tobacco products to   make it easier for people to quit smoking." If cigarettes contained only a fraction of the nicotine they currently do, it could help people break their addiction and move away from smoking.   That’s the focus of a new rule proposed by the FDA on January 15. The rule aims to cut nicotine levels in cigarettes to less than 5% of what’s found in regular cigarettes, making them far less addictive. It would also limit nicotine in other tobacco products that involve burning, offering smokers more support in their journey to quit." " The FDA’s proposed rule is just one step toward making reduced-nicotine cigarettes and other tobacco products the norm. However, this process could take years, depending on the priorities of future administrations and pote...

"Understanding the Inherited Risk of Breast Cancer"

"How a Common PCSK9 Gene Variant Could Fuel Breast Cancer Spread and a Potential Antibody Solution"   A widely inherited version of the PCSK9 gene, known for its role in cholesterol regulation, may also drive breast cancer cells to spread to other parts of the body (a process called metastasis). Excitingly, a lab-developed antibody already approved for managing cholesterol could hold promise in halting this cancer progression. A gene involved in setting cholesterol levels may also determine whether breast cancer spreads to other parts of the body. A variant of the PCSK9 gene drives the spread of breast cancer, but a lab-made antibody already approved to treat high cholesterol may help stop the exodus, researchers report December 9 in Cell . "For years, scientists have been on a detective hunt, meticulously examining normal tissues and breast cancers that had spread to other parts of the body. Their goal? To uncover the genetic 'smoking guns' the mutations within ...

"Quick workouts can protect women's Hearts"

Good news for busy women! Even short bursts of intense activity, like a playful romp with your dog, can significantly lower your risk of heart problems. No need for hours at the gym – just a few minutes of effort each day can make a big difference." Great news for your heart! Even short bursts of intense activity throughout the day can significantly lower your risk of heart problems. A recent study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that women who added short bursts of intense activity to their daily routines, like a quick sprint up the stairs or a lively dance session, reduced their risk of major heart problems by a whopping 45% compared to those who didn't." By  Emmanuel   Stamatakis , even quick bursts of intense activity, like sprinting up the stairs, dancing around the kitchen, or playing with your kids, can significantly improve your heart health. These short bursts, lasting just 20-30 seconds , can add up to make a big difference for your hea...