India
World
Economy
Science
Health
Showbiz
ContactTrending Health
Two new studies from the University of Oxford have identified links between over 1,000 blood proteins and 19 different types of cancer, potentially paving the way for an early warning system. The first study revealed 371 plasma protein markers associated with cancer risk, with 107 linked to cancers that were diagnosed seven years later. The second study found connections between 40 proteins and common cancers. Researchers hope this research will aid in early cancer detection and treatment. However, caution is advised in manipulating protein levels, as disrupting their function could have adverse effects. This groundbreaking study marks the first step in understanding the relationship between plasma proteins and cancer. 
A recent study suggests that a ketogenic diet may improve mood and mental well-being in the general population, in addition to its recognized physical and mental health benefits. The study, conducted by researchers at Northumbria University in England, found that individuals following a ketogenic diet reported better psychological well-being, including improved mood states, reduced anxiety and depression, and fewer feelings of stress and loneliness. The study, published in _Nutrition_, compared the mental health outcomes of individuals on a ketogenic diet with those on other diets, using data from two online surveys. However, experts caution that more research is needed to fully understand the long-term mental health effects of a ketogenic diet, and recommend a balanced, whole-food, plant-forward diet like the Mediterranean or DASH diets for overall mental health benefits.
A recent study published in The Lancet highlights a global increase in disease risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and high body mass index (BMI). Researchers attribute this rise to an aging population and changing lifestyles, with factors like air pollution and smoking playing a role. However, improvements have been noted in areas like water safety and maternal and child health. The study, conducted by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington, reveals a significant increase in disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) due to metabolic risk factors. Experts emphasize the need for interventions targeting obesity and metabolic syndromes to improve global health outcomes in the future.
New research presented at Heart Failure 2024, a scientific congress of the European Society of Cardiology, reveals that semaglutide, commonly used for type 2 diabetes and weight loss, can reduce the need for loop diuretics in people with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFPEF). Semaglutide was found to positively impact symptoms, physical limitations, and body weight regardless of diuretic use. The study, pooling data from two trials, showed that participants taking semaglutide experienced improvements in the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire Clinical Summary Score, with those on loop diuretics seeing a 17% reduction in diuretic dose after 52 weeks. Experts suggest that semaglutide's potential benefits for heart conditions like heart failure may extend beyond its known uses for diabetes and weight loss. Further research is needed to explore long-term clinical outcomes in this patient population.
New research delves into why men tend to develop diabetes at lower BMIs and younger ages than women, with abdominal fat in obese men with type 2 diabetes showing higher insulin resistance and different gene expression levels than women. Men also exhibit a higher level of insulin resistance in their adipose tissue. The study, led by researchers at the Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, Sweden, suggests that the sex differences in insulin resistance could be targeted with specific interventions to prevent type 2 diabetes. Additionally, a study from Australia indicates that men are at a higher risk of developing complications related to type 1 and type 2 diabetes compared to women. Experts suggest that personalized treatment pathways based on sex differences may be beneficial, with some GLP-1 agonists showing more effectiveness in women. Further research is needed to explore sex and gender differences in therapies and interventions to improve diabetes management.
A recent study has found that MRI scans may be more accurate in detecting heart disease in women compared to other diagnostic tools. Researchers analyzed data from 835 participants, with 60% being female, and reported that MRI scans provided more accurate images than traditional methods like echocardiography. The study also highlighted the importance of early detection of heart disease in women, as their symptoms and progression of the condition can differ from men. Experts believe that MRI scans could improve the diagnostic process for women suspected of having heart failure. While MRI scans are considered beneficial, some obstacles like discomfort and cost prevent their widespread use. Understanding the biological differences in women's hearts is crucial for providing appropriate care and treatment for heart disease in women.
New research from the University of Colorado Boulder suggests that older adults may move slower as they age to conserve energy, costing them more than younger adults. This study, published in _The Journal of Neuroscience_, found that older adults modified their movements to conserve their limited energy, potentially leading to new diagnostic tools for diseases like Parkinson's and multiple sclerosis. Researchers believe that understanding why movement slows with age can provide valuable insights into neurological health and interventions. Neurologists agree that encouraging exercise in older adults is crucial, even if it requires more energy. However, caution is advised in interpreting the study's conclusions without direct neurological evidence linking movement patterns to brain function changes due to aging. Further research is needed to strengthen these findings and understand the underlying mechanisms across different aging trajectories.
A recent study has found that GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic can lead to significant long-term weight loss and improved cardiovascular health. The study, involving 17,000 adults without diabetes, showed that semaglutide-based medications resulted in an average weight loss of 10% of body weight and a reduction in waistline measurements of more than 7 centimeters over four years. Experts believe that these findings could have a significant impact on public health by reducing the burden of obesity-related illnesses. While side effects such as gastrointestinal symptoms were reported, negative symptoms were lower among those taking semaglutide compared to a placebo group. Further research is needed to determine the long-term effects of GLP-1 treatment beyond four years.
A recent review of 49 studies spanning 23 years has found that vegan and vegetarian diets offer numerous health benefits, including a lower risk of cancer and cardiometabolic diseases. Plant-based diets are associated with better health status, improved lipid profiles, glycemic control, and lower risks of heart disease and cancer. While these diets have many advantages, experts caution that deficiencies in vitamins and minerals can occur if not planned properly. The World Health Organization notes that processed meat is carcinogenic, and red meat may also pose health risks due to its fat and salt content. Overall, experts recommend a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat meat products for optimal health. The findings support the long-standing advice to consume more plants and less meat for a healthier lifestyle.
A recent study suggests that adding salt to food at the table could increase the risk of gastric cancer by 41%. Gastric cancer, also known as stomach cancer, is the fifth most common cancer worldwide. While more prevalent in Asian countries, it still accounts for 1.5% of new cancer cases in the US annually. The study, which analyzed data from over 470,000 individuals, found that those who always added salt to their food were at a higher risk for gastric cancer. Although the study has limitations and cannot prove causation, it highlights the importance of reducing salt intake to lower the risk of gastric cancer. Experts recommend limiting salt intake and working with a registered dietitian to develop personalized strategies for healthier dietary choices.