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NYU Wagner researchers are using a massive dataset to uncover how policies and social conditions affect the health of New Yorkers. The unique access they have to Medicaid-related information has allowed them to make groundbreaking findings, including the negative health impacts of living under La Guardia Airport's takeoff paths and the positive effects of universal pre-kindergarten programs on children's vision. Their work also sheds light on the health impacts of evictions and incarceration, and the potential benefits of paid sick leave policies. With "virtually limitless" potential, the Medicaid Data Initiative promises to offer important insights for policy makers and researchers alike.
Did you know that chocolate syrup was once used as a medicine masker by druggists and pharmacists in the late 1800s? The popularity of chocolate syrup was partly due to its ability to mask the bitter taste of medicinal remedies. In fact, carbonated water and chocolate syrup were considered health drinks during this time. This interesting history of chocolate syrup was uncovered by Stella Parks, a pastry chef who researched the topic while writing her book, BraveTart: Iconic American Desserts. Explore the rich history of chocolate syrup and how it transitioned from a medicine to a confection.
Did you know that every time you visit the doctor or take a medication, you are contributing to the vast amounts of health data that are collected and analyzed? Thanks to advances in technology and the rise of big data, these massive amounts of information are now being used to revolutionize the field of medicine, and the results are nothing short of incredible. Data-driven medicine is the practice of using vast amounts of health-related data to improve patient outcomes and healthcare delivery. By analyzing large amounts of patient information, healthcare providers can identify patterns and trends that would be impossible to detect otherwise. This information can be used to develop personalized treatment plans, predict disease outbreaks, and even prevent illnesses before they occur. One area where data-driven medicine has already made a significant impact is in cancer treatment. Thanks to the analysis of genetic data, doctors can now tailor treatments to individual patients based on their specific genetic profile, resulting in better outcomes and fewer side effects. In fact, the use of data-driven medicine in cancer treatment has already led to a 30% reduction in mortality rates. But data-driven medicine isn't just about treating disease. It's also about preventing it. By analyzing patient data, healthcare providers can identify risk factors for certain diseases and take steps to prevent them from developing. For example, doctors can use patient data to identify individuals who are at high risk for heart disease and develop personalized prevention plans that include exercise, diet changes, and medication. Leading academics in the field of data-driven medicine include Dr. Atul Butte, a professor of pediatrics and biomedical informatics at Stanford University, and Dr. Eric Topol, a professor of molecular medicine and the executive vice-president of Scripps Research. Both researchers have made significant contributions to the field, including the development of innovative data-driven tools and techniques that are transforming the way we approach healthcare. Remember, the key to success in exploring academic topics is to be curious, ask questions, and be willing to learn. With data-driven medicine, the possibilities are endless, and the potential to make a real difference in people's lives is huge.
Are you passionate about holistic health and wellness? Do you want to help people heal naturally and live their best life? If so, a career as a Homeopathic Practitioner might be the perfect fit for you. As a Homeopathic Practitioner, you will work with patients to identify and treat the root causes of their health issues. Homeopathy is a natural form of medicine that uses highly diluted substances to stimulate the body's natural healing processes. It is a safe and effective alternative to traditional medicine, with a focus on treating the whole person, not just their symptoms. In this field, you will have the opportunity to work with a wide range of patients, from children to seniors. You will help them manage chronic conditions, recover from injuries, and maintain optimal health. You may also specialize in certain areas, such as women's health or sports medicine. To become a Homeopathic Practitioner, you will need to complete a rigorous education and training program. This typically includes a Bachelor's degree in a related field, such as biology or nutrition, followed by a specialized program in Homeopathy. There are many excellent undergraduate programs and majors available, such as the Bachelor of Science in Homeopathy at the University of Bridgeport in Connecticut. In addition to a strong academic background, successful Homeopathic Practitioners possess a number of helpful personal attributes. These include excellent communication skills, a compassionate and caring nature, and a deep commitment to helping others. The job prospects for Homeopathic Practitioners are very promising. There is a growing demand for natural and alternative forms of medicine, and many public and private sector employers are seeking qualified practitioners. Some notable employers in this field include the National Center for Homeopathy, the American Institute of Homeopathy, and the Homeopathy Association of Canada. So if you are looking for a fulfilling and rewarding career in holistic health and wellness, consider becoming a Homeopathic Practitioner. With your passion and dedication, you can help people live healthier, happier lives.
Did you know that the introduction of the 'sugary drinks tax' in England has led to a drop in obesity cases among older primary school girls? According to researchers from the University of Cambridge, the tax was associated with an 8% reduction in obesity levels in year six girls, preventing an estimated 5,000 cases per year. Find out more about how this tax is helping to tackle childhood obesity in the UK.
The eradication of smallpox is one of the most significant events of the 20th century. It is up there with the moon landing. This achievement was made possible by the development of vaccines and the efforts of health workers worldwide. Learning about the history of smallpox and vaccination is not only intellectually stimulating but also practically relevant, particularly in the context of the current COVID-19 pandemic. By understanding the strategies used to eradicate smallpox, such as tracking, testing, and isolating, we can gain insights into how to keep on top of COVID-19. Moreover, the successful eradication of smallpox gives us hope that we can eradicate other human diseases if we work together. As students, exploring academic topics through reading, reflection, writing, and self-directed projects can help us gain a deeper understanding of the world around us and inspire us to take action to make a positive impact.
Are you interested in a career that combines the best of modern medicine with natural remedies? Do you want to help people achieve optimal health and wellness through personalized treatment plans? If so, a career as a Naturopathic Doctor might be the perfect fit for you! Naturopathic Doctors are healthcare professionals who focus on treating the whole person, rather than just their symptoms. They use a variety of natural therapies, such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, and nutrition, to help their patients achieve optimal health and prevent disease. Naturopathic Doctors also work to identify and address the underlying causes of illness, rather than just treating the symptoms. As a Naturopathic Doctor, you'll have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, including private practice, integrative medical clinics, and hospitals. You'll work with patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, and you'll have the ability to specialize in areas such as women's health, pediatrics, or sports medicine. To become a Naturopathic Doctor, you'll need to complete a four-year doctoral program at an accredited naturopathic medical school. Popular undergraduate majors include biology, chemistry, and nutrition. In addition to classroom instruction, you'll also gain hands-on clinical experience, working with patients under the supervision of experienced Naturopathic Doctors. Helpful personal attributes for a career as a Naturopathic Doctor include strong communication skills, empathy, and a passion for helping others. You'll need to be able to work independently, as well as part of a team, and you'll need to be comfortable with technology, as electronic health records are becoming increasingly common in the field. Job prospects for Naturopathic Doctors are strong, with an expected growth rate of 10% over the next decade. You'll have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, including private practice, integrative medical clinics, and hospitals. Notable potential employers include the Cleveland Clinic, the Mayo Clinic, and the University of California, San Francisco. So if you're looking for a career that combines your passion for natural remedies with your desire to help others achieve optimal health and wellness, consider becoming a Naturopathic Doctor. It could be the perfect fit for you!
Frances Oldham Kelsey was a scientist who saved thousands of lives by rejecting an application to sell a drug called thalidomide. The drug was widely used in dozens of countries to treat insomnia, workplace stress, and nausea in pregnant women. However, Kelsey found the data on thalidomide's absorption and toxicity inadequate and rejected the application. Her earlier animal-based research demonstrated that drugs could pass from mother to fetus through the placenta, and she believed that thalidomide could cause harm to fetuses. Her decision to reject the application and ask for better evidence saved countless babies from severe birth defects caused by thalidomide. Kelsey's legacy endures as she prioritized facts over opinions and patience over shortcuts, making evidence-based medicine the foundation of reforms that continue to protect people today. By learning about Kelsey's story, students can understand the importance of evidence-based research and the impact of their decisions in science and medicine.
Vaccines are likely the most important public health intervention of the last 100 years, having saved over a billion lives. They have led to a massive reduction in child mortality in sub-Saharan Africa and can even prevent cancer. A world without vaccines would be unimaginable, with outbreaks of disease regularly all over the world. Vaccines are the only public health intervention that can bring equality, as they protect not only oneself but also one's family and community. While anti-vaccination fears have been around for over a century, it's important to engage with people where they are and understand their context, concerns, and experiences with health and vaccines. Taking a vaccine is not just a personal choice, but a moral choice that affects other people. Vaccines are fundamental to the privileges we have in the modern world and make it a safe place for most of us to be.
A brisk walk for just 11 mins/day can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and cancer. Researchers from the University of Cambridge analyzed 196 peer-reviewed articles, covering more than 30 million participants to produce the largest analysis to date of the association between physical activity levels and risk of chronic diseases and premature death. The study found that even half the recommended amount of physical activity (75 mins/week) brought significant benefits. Discover how you can reduce your risk of chronic diseases and early death by incorporating just a little physical activity into your daily routine.
Have you ever wondered how diseases spread and how they can be controlled? Are you passionate about improving public health and saving lives? If so, a career in epidemiology might be just what you're looking for! Epidemiology is the study of the distribution and determinants of health and disease in populations. It involves investigating patterns and causes of diseases, developing and implementing interventions to prevent and control them, and evaluating the effectiveness of these interventions. Epidemiologists work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, hospitals, universities, research institutions, and non-profit organizations. As an epidemiologist, you could work on a range of public health issues, from infectious diseases like COVID-19 and Ebola to chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. You could investigate outbreaks of foodborne illness, design and evaluate vaccination programs, or study the effects of environmental exposures on health. Your work could help to inform public policy, improve health outcomes, and save lives. Typical duties of an epidemiologist include designing and conducting studies, collecting and analyzing data, interpreting results, and communicating findings to stakeholders. Epidemiologists may specialize in specific areas such as infectious disease epidemiology, environmental epidemiology, or social epidemiology. Other related fields include biostatistics, health policy, and global health. To become an epidemiologist, you typically need a graduate degree in epidemiology or a related field such as public health or biostatistics. Popular undergraduate majors include biology, chemistry, mathematics, and statistics. Helpful personal attributes for epidemiologists include strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex information to a variety of audiences. Job prospects for epidemiologists are strong, with employment projected to grow faster than average over the next decade. There are a variety of potential employers for epidemiologists, including government agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), hospitals and healthcare systems, universities and research institutions, and non-profit organizations such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and Doctors Without Borders. Some notable epidemiologists include Dr. Anthony Fauci, Dr. Nancy Messonnier, and Dr. Michael Osterholm. If you're interested in a career in epidemiology, there are many exciting opportunities to explore. With your skills and knowledge, you could make a real difference in improving public health and saving lives.
The world is still facing daily COVID-19 infections and the threat of virus mutation, but it's not too late to change the game. A pandemic vaccine alliance, similar to NATO, could be the solution to overcome the "free-rider problem" in global health efforts and ensure the world's biological security.
Organ transplants are a life-saving medical breakthrough that have revolutionized the field of medicine. Kidneys are essential organs that filter waste material from the blood and process it into urine. A typical dialysis patient has a poorer life expectancy than many cancers. Removing one kidney should not affect someone's lifespan or quality of life. A kidney from a living donor in general will have a much better quality because it comes from a healthy and tested person. Kidneys are expected to survive up to twice as long on average in the recipient. Currently, it's not allowed to donate a kidney under any form of payment. However, incentivizing people to donate more is actually a way to starve black markets. It's not to recreate them, it's to undermine them. If you reward a person amply for the sacrifice they've made, something they go into with their eyes open and well informed, that's not exploitation. Organ donation is an incredible gift that can save someone's life so palpably, and everyone should consider donating.
Are you someone who loves helping people and has a passion for medicine? If so, a career as a family physician could be the perfect fit for you! As a family physician, you will be responsible for providing primary care to patients of all ages, from newborns to the elderly. You will work with patients to diagnose and treat a wide range of illnesses and injuries, as well as provide preventative care through regular check-ups and screenings. One of the most appealing aspects of this career is the opportunity to build long-lasting relationships with your patients. You will get to know them and their families, and be a trusted source of guidance and support throughout their lives. In terms of duties, family physicians have a wide range of responsibilities. Some may choose to specialize in areas such as sports medicine or geriatrics, while others may work in hospital settings or in private practices. No matter where you work, you will be an essential part of the healthcare team, working closely with other medical professionals to provide the best possible care to your patients. To become a family physician, you will need to complete a Bachelor's degree in a related field such as biology or chemistry, followed by four years of medical school. After that, you will need to complete a residency program in family medicine, which typically takes three years. In addition to education and training, there are certain personal attributes that can be helpful in this career. These include strong communication skills, empathy, and a desire to help others. The job prospects for family physicians are excellent, with a high demand for healthcare professionals in this field. There are many potential employers to choose from, including private practices, hospitals, and government agencies. Some notable employers include Kaiser Permanente, Mayo Clinic, and the National Health Service in the United Kingdom. In conclusion, a career as a family physician is a rewarding and fulfilling path for those who have a passion for medicine and a desire to help others. With a strong educational background, the right personal attributes, and a commitment to providing the best possible care to your patients, you can make a real difference in the lives of countless people around the world.
Researchers have identified lipid differences in patients with alcohol-related liver disease that could lead to earlier detection and new treatments. Sphingomyelins were found to be significantly reduced in scarred liver tissue, potentially serving as a biomarker for ALD. Learn more about this breakthrough research and its implications for the diagnosis and treatment of ALD.
Over 4 billion people, including children, will be obese or overweight by 2035, warns the World Obesity Federation. The cost of obesity is predicted to exceed $4tn annually by 2035, with low-income countries in Africa and Asia being most affected. The report highlights the need for urgent action to address the root factors contributing to obesity. Discover how rising obesity rates will impact the global economy, and the consequences for younger generations.
Do you have a passion for helping children? Do you want to make a difference in their lives? If so, then a career as a Pediatrician may be perfect for you! Pediatricians are medical doctors who specialize in the care of children, from newborns to teenagers. They play a crucial role in ensuring that children grow up healthy and strong. As a Pediatrician, you will be responsible for diagnosing and treating a wide range of illnesses and injuries that affect children. You will also provide preventive care, such as vaccinations, and help parents and caregivers to understand how to keep their children healthy. One of the most appealing aspects of this career is the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of children. You may be the one to identify a serious illness early on, saving a child's life. Or you may be the one to help a child overcome a chronic condition, allowing them to thrive and reach their full potential. Pediatricians can specialize in a variety of areas, such as neonatology, cardiology, or oncology. This allows you to focus on the specific needs of your patients and become an expert in your field. To become a Pediatrician, you will need to complete a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as Biology or Chemistry, followed by four years of medical school. After that, you will need to complete a residency program in Pediatrics, which typically lasts three years. In addition to the required education and training, there are certain personal attributes that can be helpful in this career. These include empathy, patience, and excellent communication skills. Job prospects for Pediatricians are excellent, with a projected growth rate of 14% over the next decade. There are a wide range of potential employers, including hospitals, private practices, and government agencies. Some notable employers include Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Boston Children's Hospital, and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. In conclusion, a career as a Pediatrician can be incredibly rewarding, both personally and professionally. If you have a passion for helping children and want to make a difference in the world, then this may be the perfect career for you!
Cancer is a mysterious and deadly disease that claims the lives of 1500 Americans every day. But why is it so common, and why does treatment often fail? In "Cancer: The Evolutionary Legacy", leading researcher Mel Greaves offers clear and convincing answers to these questions by looking at cancer through a Darwinian lens. Greaves argues that human development has trapped us in a nature-nurture mismatch, causing cancer to thrive. With compelling examples from history and modern research, this fascinating book sheds light on the evolutionary context of cancer and its implications for prevention and treatment. Recommended for biology students, medical professionals, and anyone interested in the evolutionary origins of disease, "Cancer: The Evolutionary Legacy" offers a fresh perspective on this complex and elusive disease. With its lucid and engaging style, this book is accessible to readers of all backgrounds and provides a comprehensive overview of cancer research and treatment. Additionally, those interested in the history of medicine and public health will find the compelling examples from history, including the epidemic of scrotal skin cancer in 18th-century chimney sweeps, to be particularly interesting.
Are you aware that every five seconds, someone develops diabetes? With 285 million people affected worldwide, many are still unaware of this global epidemic. Jeff O'Connell's Sugar Nation is a captivating personal story of one man's journey to uncover the mysteries of diabetes and practical advice on how to combat this deadly disease. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to take control of their health and understand the dangers of dietary sugar. Recommended for health enthusiasts, medical professionals, fitness coaches, and anyone seeking to understand the impact of sugar on their health. This book provides an eye-opening account of the dangers of diabetes and practical advice on how to combat it. It is relevant to a wide range of fields, including nutrition, medicine, public health, and fitness. It is also an essential read for anyone interested in taking control of their health and well-being.
The Cancer-Fighting Kitchen is a remarkable resource that teaches patients and caregivers how to use readily available powerhouse ingredients to build a symptom- and cancer-fighting culinary toolkit. With 150 science-based, nutrient-rich recipes that are easy to prepare and designed to give patients a much-needed boost, this book is a step-by-step guide to nutritionally prepare for all phases of treatment. From soups, vegetable dishes, proteins, to sweet and savory snacks, each recipe is rich in the nutrients, minerals, and phytochemicals that help patients thrive during treatment. Recommended for cancer patients, caregivers, and anyone interested in using food as medicine, The Cancer-Fighting Kitchen offers a wealth of knowledge on how to use whole foods to alleviate treatment side effects and boost the immune system. This book is particularly relevant for those in the health and wellness field, including nutritionists, dietitians, and doctors, as well as those with a personal interest in cancer prevention and treatment. The recipes are customizable for specific treatment phases, cancer types, side effects, and flavor preferences, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to eat healthily and deliciously.
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