Horseshoe crabs, a resilient species that has existed for over 450 million years, are facing heightened pressures due to the booming global demand for their blue blood. This blood is the only known natural source of amebocyte lysate, a clotting agent used to detect dangerous endotoxins in a variety of human medical products, including COVID vaccines. The Atlantic horseshoe crab, already considered vulnerable by conservation groups, is facing dwindling numbers due to increased bleedings by biomedical companies. As the industry shifts towards the Atlantic species, questions arise about our obligations to the animals that supply life-saving materials for human benefit.

Are you interested in learning about the dangers of antimicrobial resistance and why it's such a big deal? Look no further than the World Health Organization's reference article on the topic! This informative piece explains how antimicrobial resistance occurs and why it's such a threat to our health and the health of our planet. You'll learn about the various factors driving antimicrobial resistance, as well as the impact it can have on medical procedures and the global economy. Don't miss out on this important read!

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.

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.

If you're looking for a field of study that is both fascinating and essential to our everyday lives, then look no further than Microbiology! Microbiology is the study of microscopic organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and algae. It is a field that has a significant impact on our health, food, environment, and much more. One of the most appealing aspects of Microbiology is that it has a direct impact on our daily lives. For example, microbiologists play a critical role in developing vaccines, antibiotics, and other treatments for infectious diseases. They also work to ensure the safety of our food supply by monitoring for harmful bacteria and other microorganisms. In terms of research and innovation, Microbiology is a field that is constantly evolving. There are always new discoveries being made, such as the recent development of CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology. Microbiology also has a rich history, with notable figures such as Louis Pasteur and Robert Koch making groundbreaking contributions to the field. At the undergraduate level, students can expect to take courses in areas such as microbial genetics, immunology, and virology. There are also opportunities for further specialization, such as studying environmental microbiology or medical microbiology. Real-life examples of exciting careers in Microbiology include working as a clinical microbiologist, a food microbiologist, or a research scientist. There are a range of potential future jobs and roles that this field of study might be directly helpful for, including working in public health, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and more. Notable employers in the field include the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and pharmaceutical companies such as Pfizer and Merck. To succeed in Microbiology, students should have a strong interest in science and a natural curiosity about the world around them. They should also be detail-oriented, analytical, and have excellent problem-solving skills. Overall, studying Microbiology is an exciting and rewarding experience that has the potential to make a real difference in the world. So if you're interested in a field that combines cutting-edge research with practical applications, then Microbiology might just be the perfect fit for you!

Spices have been used for thousands of years for their medicinal properties. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans used spices such as cinnamon, turmeric, and cumin for their health benefits. In India, Ayurvedic medicine has been using spices for centuries to treat various ailments. Spices are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic properties. They can help with digestive issues, inflammation, and even chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. Recent research has shown that certain spices like turmeric, ginger, and black pepper can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Another study found that cinnamon can lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. The use of spices in alternative medicine has become increasingly popular in Western countries. Dr. Andrew Weil, a leading figure in integrative medicine, has written extensively about the health benefits of spices. He recommends adding turmeric to your diet to reduce inflammation and prevent chronic disease. Another notable academic in the field is Dr. Michael Greger, a physician and author of How Not to Die. In his book, he highlights the benefits of consuming spices such as cinnamon and ginger for their anti-cancer properties. Spices are not only delicious but also have amazing healing properties. Incorporating them into your diet can have a significant impact on your health and wellbeing. So, next time you reach for that spice jar, remember the healing power of nature at your fingertips.

Antibiotics are drugs used to treat bacterial infections, but over time, bacteria can develop the ability to resist these drugs, making infections much harder to treat. This problem is compounded by the overuse and misuse of antibiotics, which speeds up the development of resistance. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), antibiotic resistance is one of the biggest threats to global health today. In the United States alone, more than 2.8 million antibiotic-resistance infections occur each year, and at least 35,000 people die as a result. Dr. Ramanan Laxminarayan, director of the One Health Trust, has stressed the importance of reducing the overuse of antibiotics in agriculture, where they are often used to promote growth in animals and to prevent disease, leading to the spread of resistance. So what can be done to combat this growing crisis? One strategy is to reduce the overuse of antibiotics, by only using them when necessary and as prescribed by a doctor. Another strategy is to develop new antibiotics that bacteria have not acquired resistance to, such as teixobactin, as well as alternative treatments for bacterial infections, such as bacteriophages (viruses that infect and kill bacteria). By learning about antibiotic resistance and the efforts to combat it, you can play a role in protecting global health and preserving the effectiveness of antibiotics for future generations.

The immune system is a crucial part of our body's interconnected system, and a healthy gut microbiome is critical to a healthy immune system. Rather than trying to boost our immune system, we should focus on supporting it through a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a diverse diet with plenty of fiber and polyphenols, stress reduction, and good sleep. While there is no magic pill to boost our immune response, scientists are constantly developing new drug treatments and therapies to combat a wide range of diseases. It is also important to note that risky procedures such as faecal transplants should only be done within the confines of a medical clinic. By understanding how our immune system works, we can take steps to keep it healthy and help win the war against infection.

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.

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.

The discovery of antibiotics in the 20th Century revolutionized healthcare, adding an average of 20 years to everyone's life. However, the overuse and misuse of antibiotics have led to the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, or superbugs, which could cause a health crisis worse than any we've experienced this century. By 2050, it's predicted that 10 million people will die every year from complications with superbugs. A world without antibiotics would be catastrophic, impacting our food chain and causing many to die younger than they do now. As students, it's important to understand the consequences of antibiotic misuse and to be cautious when taking antibiotics. By finishing the full course of antibiotics, we can prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Additionally, we should be aware of the need for new antibiotics and support efforts to fund research into finding them. Anticipating problems and taking action before they become global crises is key to protecting our health and future.

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.

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.

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 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!

Do you have a passion for the human body and how it functions? Are you fascinated by the intricate workings of the digestive system? Then a career in Gastroenterology might just be the perfect fit for you! Gastroenterology is a medical specialty that focuses on the digestive system and its associated organs. Gastroenterologists diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, from common digestive issues like acid reflux and ulcers, to more complex diseases like Crohn's disease and liver cancer. They use a variety of tools and techniques, including endoscopy and imaging tests, to help their patients achieve optimal digestive health. One of the most appealing aspects of a career in Gastroenterology is the variety of specialties within the field. Gastroenterologists can choose to focus on areas like hepatology (liver disease), pediatric gastroenterology, or inflammatory bowel disease, among others. This allows for a diverse range of career opportunities and the chance to make a real impact in a specific area of interest. To become a Gastroenterologist, you'll need to complete extensive education and training. This typically includes a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field like biology or chemistry, followed by medical school and a residency program in internal medicine. After completing a fellowship in Gastroenterology, you'll be eligible for certification by the American Board of Internal Medicine. In addition to a strong educational background, there are several personal attributes that can be helpful in a career in Gastroenterology. These include excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well under pressure. Job prospects for Gastroenterologists are strong, with a projected growth rate of 14% over the next decade. There are a variety of potential employers in both the public and private sectors, including hospitals, clinics, and research institutions. Notable examples include the Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and the Cleveland Clinic. So if you're looking for a challenging and rewarding career that combines your love of science with a desire to help others, consider a career in Gastroenterology. With a wide range of specialties and strong job prospects, it's a field that offers endless opportunities for growth and impact.

The Good Gut by Justin and Erica Sonnenburg is a groundbreaking work that explores the fascinating relationship between our bodies and the trillions of organisms that we host, collectively known as the microbiota. The Sonnenburgs argue that the microbiota plays a vital role in determining our health, mood, and even personality. However, due to factors such as diet and antibiotic overuse, our gut microbiota is facing a "mass extinction event," which could be behind many of our modern afflictions. This timely investigation offers a new plan for health that focuses on nourishing our microbiota, including recipes and a menu plan. Recommended for anyone interested in the fascinating world of microbiology, health and wellness, and the human body. This book will be particularly relevant to students of biology, medicine, nutrition, and environmental studies, as well as healthcare professionals and anyone interested in taking control of their own health. The Good Gut provides a unique perspective on the importance of our gut microbiota and its impact on our overall well-being. It offers practical tips and advice on how to nourish our microbiota through dietary and lifestyle choices, and how to manage the aging microbiota. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to make informed choices about their health.

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.

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!

Are you someone who loves to take care of their skin and is fascinated by the science of it all? Do you have an eye for detail and a passion for helping others look and feel their best? If so, then a career in dermatology might be the perfect fit for you! Dermatology is a branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nail conditions. It's a field that's constantly evolving, with new research and technology being developed all the time. As a dermatologist, you'll have the opportunity to work with patients of all ages, from newborns to the elderly, and help them with a wide range of skin issues. One of the most appealing aspects of a career in dermatology is the variety of conditions you'll encounter. From acne and eczema to skin cancer and psoriasis, no two cases are the same. You'll have the chance to use your expertise to diagnose and treat these conditions, as well as perform cosmetic procedures such as Botox injections and laser hair removal. To become a dermatologist, you'll need to complete extensive education and training. This typically includes a four-year undergraduate degree in a science-related field such as biology or chemistry, followed by four years of medical school. After that, you'll need to complete a residency program in dermatology, which can take up to four years. In addition to a strong academic background, there are certain personal attributes that can be helpful in a career in dermatology. These include excellent communication skills, a compassionate nature, and a strong attention to detail. You'll also need to be comfortable working with patients of all ages and backgrounds, and be able to handle the emotional aspects of the job. The job prospects for dermatologists are excellent, with a strong demand for their services in both the public and private sectors. Some notable potential employers include hospitals, clinics, and private practices. You may also have the opportunity to work in research or academia, helping to develop new treatments and technologies for skin conditions. So if you have a passion for skin care and a desire to make a difference in people's lives, a career in dermatology might be the perfect choice for you. With hard work and dedication, you could be on your way to a fulfilling and rewarding career in this exciting field.