Florence Nightingale, known as the "lady with the lamp" for her work as a nurse during the Crimean War, was also a trained statistician who believed that statistics were "God's work." She used her knowledge of statistics to revolutionize the way hospitals were run by collecting data and showing that changes in diet and sanitation could bring the death rate down. Florence's work laid the groundwork for things we now take for granted, like being able to compare hospitals' performance and the fact that hospitals are clean. By following evidence instead of gut instinct, prejudice, or tradition, Florence showed what could be achieved. She turned data into pictures, making it impossible for MPs and civil servants to ignore. Florence would love the way big data makes all this possible but would hate some of the ways that data are abused. By learning about statistics and data, students can follow in Florence's footsteps to make the world a better place and shine a little more light on us all.

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented challenges for individuals, communities, and countries around the world. In response to the pandemic, the development of COVID-19 vaccines has been a remarkable achievement. However, the distribution and administration of the vaccines have been complicated by vaccine politics, which have emerged as a significant issue. Vaccine politics refers to the debates and divisions that have arisen concerning the distribution, accessibility, and administration of vaccines. There have been concerns about the vaccine's efficacy, safety, and the possibility of side effects. Moreover, there have been debates about who should receive the vaccine first, the role of government and private sectors in vaccine distribution, and the potential for vaccine passports. Despite the challenges, several academics have contributed significantly to the development of COVID-19 vaccines and addressing the vaccine politics issue. Dr. Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), has been at the forefront of the US government's COVID-19 response. He has been an advocate for the use of vaccines and has provided expert advice and guidance on the vaccines' development, distribution, and administration. Similarly, Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, a viral immunologist at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), played a significant role in developing the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. The COVID-19 vaccine politics have been further complicated by misinformation and conspiracy theories. Social media platforms have been awash with false information and myths concerning the vaccines, leading to vaccine hesitancy among some individuals. However, research has shown that the COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective in preventing severe illness and death. The COVID-19 vaccine politics have brought to the forefront the importance of vaccines in public health and the challenges of ensuring their equitable distribution. As high school students, exploring these academic topics will not only broaden your knowledge but also enable you to make informed decisions concerning their health and well-being!

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 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.

Epidemiology is the study of how diseases spread and how to prevent them from spreading. It's a fascinating field that combines elements of medicine, statistics, and public health. Epidemiologists are the detectives of the medical world, investigating outbreaks of diseases and working to keep the public safe. One of the most interesting aspects of epidemiology is the way it combines science and real-world problem solving. Epidemiologists use data to identify patterns and trends in disease outbreaks, and then work with public health officials to develop strategies for preventing the spread of those diseases. Some of the most inspiring innovations in epidemiology have come from the study of infectious diseases. For example, the development of vaccines has been one of the most important breakthroughs in modern medicine, and it was made possible in large part by the work of epidemiologists. At the undergraduate level, students studying epidemiology will typically take courses in statistics, biology, and public health. They'll also have the opportunity to specialize in areas like infectious diseases, chronic diseases, or environmental health. One exciting area of specialization in epidemiology is the study of emerging infectious diseases. This field is particularly relevant today, as we face the threat of new diseases like COVID-19. Epidemiologists working in this area are at the forefront of efforts to prevent the spread of these diseases and protect public health. There are many potential career paths for students studying epidemiology. Some may choose to work in public health, helping to develop policies and programs to prevent the spread of diseases. Others may work in research, studying the patterns of disease outbreaks and developing new treatments and vaccines. Some of the most exciting employers for epidemiologists include organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer and Moderna. To succeed in epidemiology, students should have strong analytical skills and an interest in public health and medicine. They should also be able to communicate complex scientific concepts to a non-scientific audience, and be comfortable working collaboratively with others. If you're interested in making a difference in the world of public health, epidemiology could be the perfect field for you.

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.

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.

Could the use of steroids in the military be ethical? Despite being banned, steroids are commonly used to enhance physical performance by soldiers. While there are concerns about the health and behavioral impacts, researchers argue that the use of steroids may be necessary to create "super soldiers" in a highly competitive and demanding environment. But is it worth the risks? Explore the controversial topic and weigh the ethical implications of using performance-enhancing drugs in the armed forces.

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.

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.

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.

New research has identified gold-based compounds that could treat multidrug-resistant "superbugs", with some effectiveness against several bacteria. Antibiotic resistance is a global public health threat, and the development of new antibiotics has stalled. Gold metalloantibiotics, compounds with a gold ion at their core, could be a promising new approach. Dr. Sara M. Soto Gonzalez and colleagues studied the activity of 19 gold complexes against a range of multidrug-resistant bacteria isolated from patients. The gold compounds were effective against at least one bacterial species studied, with some displaying potent activity against several multidrug-resistant bacteria.

Are you looking for a career that allows you to make a difference in people's lives? Do you want to help people navigate the complexities of the healthcare system and provide them with emotional support during difficult times? If so, a career as a Medical Social Worker may be the perfect fit for you. Medical Social Workers are essential members of healthcare teams who provide support and assistance to patients and their families. They work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other healthcare settings, helping patients and families cope with the challenges of illness, injury, and disability. As a Medical Social Worker, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of patients and their families. You will provide emotional support, help patients navigate the healthcare system, connect them with community resources, and assist with discharge planning. You will also work closely with other healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and therapists, to ensure that patients receive the best possible care. There are many different areas of specialization within the field of Medical Social Work. Some Medical Social Workers focus on working with specific populations, such as children, the elderly, or those with mental health issues. Others specialize in specific areas of healthcare, such as oncology, palliative care, or rehabilitation. To become a Medical Social Worker, you will typically need a Bachelor's degree in Social Work or a related field. Many universities offer undergraduate programs in Social Work, and some even offer specialized majors in Medical Social Work. After completing your Bachelor's degree, you will need to obtain a Master's degree in Social Work and obtain a license to practice in your state. In addition to formal education and training, there are several personal attributes that can be helpful in a career as a Medical Social Worker. These include strong communication skills, empathy, and the ability to work well under pressure. The job prospects for Medical Social Workers are excellent, with strong demand for their services in both public and private healthcare sectors around the world. Some notable employers include hospitals, hospices, clinics, and government agencies. If you're looking for a rewarding career that allows you to make a real difference in people's lives, consider a career as a Medical Social Worker. With the right education, training, and personal attributes, you can become an essential member of a healthcare team and help patients and their families navigate the challenges of illness and disability.

The Truth in Small Doses is a gripping exploration of the war on cancer, revealing why we are losing the fight against this disease despite decades of research and billions of dollars invested. Investigative journalist and cancer survivor Clifton Leaf asks tough questions about why progress has been limited, from the lack of collaboration among scientists to the high cost and frequent failure of new drugs. This eye-opening history inspires conversation and change, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the future of cancer research and treatment. Recommended for students of medicine, biology, and public health, as well as anyone interested in the state of cancer research and treatment. The Truth in Small Doses offers a unique perspective on the war on cancer, asking important questions about the effectiveness of current strategies and the need for change. This book will be of particular interest to those pursuing careers in oncology, as well as patients and families affected by cancer. However, it also has relevance for those in fields such as journalism, business, and government, as it sheds light on the challenges of collaboration and innovation in the face of a complex and devastating disease.

We all know how important it is to stay healthy and avoid getting sick. But have you ever wondered about the science behind vaccines? In this video clip, we learn about the key academic concept of how the immune system works to fight off infections and how scientists are working to develop a universal flu vaccine that could protect us against every strain of the flu, even ones that don't exist yet. Learning about this exciting field of research not only expands our knowledge of how vaccines work, but also helps us understand the importance of public health initiatives.

Performance enhancement is a topic that captures the attention of many athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and even those seeking to improve their cognitive abilities. It involves the use of substances like steroids, supplements, and other performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) to improve athletic or cognitive performance. However, the use of these substances is often a source of controversy and has raised ethical, medical, and legal concerns. According to a study conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, more than 3 million people in the US have used anabolic steroids, which are a type of PED, at some point in their lives. The use of these substances is not only widespread in professional sports but also in high school and college sports. This has led to the implementation of anti-doping policies and testing in sports to prevent unfair advantages. In addition to steroids, there are various other supplements and substances that athletes and fitness enthusiasts use to enhance their performance. These include caffeine, creatine, beta-alanine, and nitric oxide supplements. While some of these supplements are legal and safe, others can be harmful and cause adverse health effects. One of the most significant risks associated with performance enhancement is the potential for long-term health consequences. For example, steroid use can lead to liver damage, high blood pressure, and an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. Additionally, the use of PEDs can cause psychological side effects, such as mood swings and aggression. The ethical and legal implications of performance enhancement are also of concern. The use of PEDs is considered cheating in sports and can lead to disqualification, suspension, and other penalties. In some cases, the use of PEDs can also result in legal consequences, such as fines and imprisonment. To gain a better understanding of the topic, it's essential to explore the academic terms and concepts associated with performance enhancement. This includes understanding the differences between anabolic steroids and other types of PEDs, such as stimulants and hormone treatments. It also involves exploring the concept of "doping" and its impact on sports, as well as the ethical and legal implications of performance enhancement. Leading academics in the field include Dr. Harrison G. Pope, Jr., a professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School who has conducted extensive research on the psychological and physical effects of steroids. Another prominent academic in the field is Dr. Charles E. Yesalis, a professor of health policy and administration at Penn State University who has studied the use of PEDs in sports for over three decades. By exploring academic topics related to performance enhancement, high school students can gain a deeper understanding of this complex and controversial issue. They can also develop critical thinking skills and learn how to conduct research and present their findings in a clear and concise manner.

Stanford University researchers, in collaboration with other institutions, have developed a molecule that prevents the spike protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus from twisting and infecting cells, including those with new variants. This new type of antiviral therapeutic, called the longHR2\_42 inhibitor, may be delivered via inhaler to treat early infections and prevent severe illness. The team's detailed understanding of the twisted structure of the virus's spike protein allowed them to create a longer molecule that is more effective than previous attempts to block the virus. Their groundbreaking research may lead to a promising solution to combat COVID-19.

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 team at Massachusetts General Hospital has developed an AI-powered method to detect Alzheimer's disease with 90% accuracy using routinely collected clinical brain images. The model is blind to features of the brain associated with age and can detect Alzheimer's regardless of other variables. The study made substantial steps toward performing this in real-world clinical settings, making a strong case for clinical use of this diagnostic technology.

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.