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.

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.

The Cancer Chronicles takes readers on a fascinating journey through the history and recent advances of cancer research, revealing surprising discoveries and challenging everything we thought we knew about the disease. Science writer George Johnson delves into every discipline from evolutionary biology to game theory and physics to extract fact from myth and hype. He describes tumors that evolve like alien creatures, paleo-oncologists who uncover petrified tumors clinging to the skeletons of dinosaurs, and the surprising reversals in science's comprehension of the causes of cancer. This intellectually vibrant exploration of cancer research is a must-read for anyone seeking a new understanding of the disease. Recommended for students interested in biology, medicine, and health sciences, as well as anyone whose life has been affected by cancer, The Cancer Chronicles offers a new perspective on the disease. This book is relevant to those pursuing careers in oncology, epidemiology, and clinical trials, as well as those interested in environmental health and public policy. The interdisciplinary approach taken by George Johnson, exploring cancer research through the lens of evolutionary biology, game theory, and physics, makes this book a valuable resource for anyone looking to broaden their understanding of the disease. The Cancer Chronicles is a compelling read that offers a unique perspective on cancer research and the human experience of the disease.

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!

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.

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 curious about the tiny viruses that inhabit your body? MIT Technology Review's biotech newsletter, The Checkup, explores the world of bacteriophages, or "phages" for short. These microscopic viruses have the potential to treat bacterial infections, but they've been largely abandoned in favor of antibiotics. With antimicrobial resistance on the rise, interest in phage therapy is making a comeback. Learn about the diversity and specificity of phages, and how they could be engineered to target specific bacteria. Discover the potential of phage therapy and the challenges that need to be overcome in this fascinating article.

Discover how human evolution has led to unique diseases like knee osteoarthritis, affecting millions worldwide. Professor Terence D. Capellini shares genetic research on the link between bipedalism and knee osteoarthritis, and how identifying high-risk patients at an early age can inform future therapies. Explore the Developmental and Evolutionary Genetics Lab's work and hypotheses published in his 2020 paper "Evolutionary Selection and Constraint on Human Knee Chondrocyte Regulation Impacts Osteoarthritis Risk." Join the Harvard Museums of Science & Culture's ongoing series to learn more.

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!

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.

Have you ever wondered why a black eye turns blue, then green, then yellow, and finally brown before disappearing? It's all because of your hemoglobin, the compound in red blood cells that brings oxygen to your body. When you get hit, the blow crushes tiny blood vessels called capillaries, and red blood cells ooze out of the broken capillaries into the surrounding tissue. From the outside of your skin, this mass of cells looks bluish-black, which is where we get the term, "black and blue". Learning about hemoglobin and how it works in your body can be fascinating and practical knowledge that can help you understand how your body works. It's an example of how exploring academic topics through reading, reflection, and writing can inspire you to learn more about the world around you.

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.

From toxic leaks to microplastic pollution, scientists are exploring how pollutants affect human health. Exposomics is a new field that aims to understand our exposure to chemicals and their impact. Carmen Marsit, a molecular epidemiologist, is leading the charge to measure our exposure to chemicals and their breakdown products in blood. Learn how scientists are using gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, and mass spectrometry to identify the chemicals we are exposed to and the potential health risks associated with chronic exposure.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Are you interested in pursuing a career that enables you to make a difference in people's lives while helping them? The field of surgery may be the ideal fit for you! Surgeons are highly skilled medical professionals responsible for performing operations to cure and treat a wide range of diseases and injuries. Let's delve deeper into what it takes to build a career in surgery. As a surgeon, your primary responsibility is to perform surgeries and other medical procedures to diagnose and treat various ailments and conditions. You'll be working with patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly, in several specializations, including neurosurgery, orthopedic surgery, plastic surgery, cardiothoracic surgery, and more. One of the most compelling aspects of a career in surgery is the chance to have a significant and long-lasting impact on people's lives. For example, as a neurosurgeon, you can perform life-saving brain surgeries, while as a plastic surgeon, you can help boost someone's confidence and self-esteem by fixing their physical defects. To become a surgeon, you'll need to earn a medical degree, complete a residency program, and get a state license. The entire process of education and training may take up to 14 years, including undergraduate studies in biology, chemistry, or pre-med. Excellent manual dexterity, communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to work under pressure are essential qualities for success in this field. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills are equally vital. The job prospects and long-term outlook for surgeons are favorable, with an expected job growth of 4% over the next decade. Surgeons are in high demand worldwide, with hospitals, private clinics, research institutions, and government agencies being some of the potential employers. Numerous top-notch organizations are looking for talented surgeons to join their teams, including the Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Cleveland Clinic in the USA, the Royal London Hospital in the UK, and St. Vincent's Hospital in Australia. In conclusion, if you're looking for a fulfilling and exciting career that allows you to make a difference in people's lives while working in a challenging and rewarding field, surgery may be the perfect career path for you. Take the time to explore this field further and see if it's the right choice for you!