Personal trainer nearly dies from Covid-19 blood clots
Personal trainer Becky Fanthorpe, 39, nearly died from blood clots in her legs, stomach, and lungs caused by Covid-19. Despite initial dismissal of her symptoms, subsequent tests revealed blood clots throughout her body. A year later, she credits her love for cooking with helping her through her darkest days and now shares her favorite recipes with her 11,000 online followers.
Schizophrenia linked to increased risk for subsequent CVD events
A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that schizophrenia is associated with an increased risk of subsequent cardiovascular disease (CVD) events, with the association stronger in women. The researchers observed a significant relationship of schizophrenia with an increased risk for developing composite CVD events in both men and women, with a stronger association seen in women. The study suggests a need for greater support for individuals, particularly women, with schizophrenia, and for psychiatrists, cardiologists, and general physicians to apply these findings to CVD prevention.
WHO Releases Details on Fatal Nipah Virus Cases in Bangladesh
The World Health Organization (WHO) has released new details regarding two fatal cases of Nipah virus infections in Bangladesh. The cases, which were confirmed before February 9, resulted in the deaths of both patients. The individuals, a 38-year-old man and a 3-year-old girl, were from Dhaka division but from separate districts and were not epidemiologically linked to each other, according to a statement from the WHO. The man’s symptoms began on January 11, and he passed away on January 28 after testing positive for Nipah virus. It was discovered that he had consumed raw date palm sap, a practice known to increase the risk of contracting the disease. Despite efforts to educate communities about the risks, public health officials continue to warn against drinking raw date palm sap due to potential contamination with bat droppings containing the virus. The second patient, a 3-year-old girl, was isolated in a Dhaka city hospital on January 30, and her Nipah virus infection was confirmed the following day. Investigators found that she had regularly consumed raw date palm sap. However, all 67 of her contacts tested negative for the virus. The WHO emphasized that the risk to Bangladesh is moderate, citing the high case-fatality rate and ongoing consumption of raw date palm sap. Additionally, the regional risk is considered moderate due to Bangladesh sharing an ecological corridor with India and Myanmar for the bats that are the natural Nipah virus hosts. Currently, there are no vaccines or treatments for Nipah virus, which has been classified as a priority disease for countermeasure research and development.
Women at Higher Risk for Workplace Burnout and Stress, Experts Say
Research has shown that women are at a higher risk for burnout and psychological, emotional, and physical stress in the workplace compared to their male counterparts. Several experts, including Shannan M. Grant, Barb Hamilton-Hinch, Dayna Lee-Baggley, Jacquie Gahagan, Jessica Mannette, and Leigh-Ann MacFarlane, have highlighted the need for change in the workplace to improve cardiovascular health for women. Their combined expertise and research emphasize the importance of addressing the specific challenges women face in the workplace, particularly in relation to cardiovascular health, and the need for better support systems, resources, and policies to mitigate the risk of burnout and stress among women.
The Impact of Social Media on Male Body Image
Social media’s impact on men and teenage boys’ body image is concerning, leading to ‘bigorexia’ and muscle dysmorphia. Licensed clinical psychologist Joseph Trunzo highlights the pressure created by social media and urges mindfulness in exercise. Parents are encouraged to monitor their children’s social media exposure to combat unrealistic body standards.
C.D.C. Announces New Guidelines for Isolation Periods for Covid and Respiratory Infections
The C.D.C. has announced new guidelines for isolation periods for individuals with Covid and other respiratory infections. Americans can return to daily activities if fever-free for 24 hours and showing symptom improvement. Precautions are still emphasized as individuals can still be contagious without symptoms. The guidelines also apply to influenza and respiratory syncytial virus, making it easier for people to understand and comply. Dr. Mandy Cohen highlighted the goal of the new recommendations to continue protecting those at risk for severe illness while providing clear and easy-to-follow guidelines for the public.
Campaigners Call for ‘On-the-Spot’ Cancer Tests on High Street to Save Lives
Cancer campaigners are advocating for ‘on-the-spot’ cancer tests to be made available on the high street in a bid to catch tumors earlier and save lives. The call comes as charity bosses stress the urgency of rolling out tests more widely, citing it as the ‘UK’s best hope of saving lives.’ The push for wider availability of cancer tests in communities underscores the critical need to enhance early detection and treatment, ultimately striving to save more lives from the clutches of upper gastro-intestinal cancers.
London woman uses phone flash to detect infant son’s rare eye cancer
Read about how a London woman used her phone’s camera flash to detect her infant son’s rare eye cancer, leading to a successful recovery. This extraordinary case highlights the potential for technology to aid in the early detection of medical conditions, potentially saving lives.
Flavonol Consumption Linked to Lower Risk of Mortality
Consuming flavonol, a naturally occurring compound in fruits and vegetables, has been linked to lower risk of mortality from cancer and cardiovascular disease. A recent study shows higher flavonol consumption is associated with decreased risk of death from these ailments. Including a diverse range of fruits and vegetables in one’s diet is important for adequate flavonol intake.
UK Man Dies from Vitamin D ‘Overdose’
Medical experts issue warning after an 89-year-old man in the UK dies from a Vitamin D ‘overdose’. The incident prompts calls for clearer labeling on supplement packaging to prevent future tragedies. The deceased had Vitamin D levels at an alarming 380, significantly exceeding the recommended level of 30. This case highlights the importance of clear and comprehensive labeling on dietary supplements.